Can I Bake an Apple Pie in an Air Fryer Discover the Crispy Truth

Yes, you can bake a delicious apple pie in an air fryer—and it delivers a crisp, golden crust with tender, spiced apples in less time than a conventional oven. This space-saving method ensures even browning and perfect texture, making it an ideal hack for small kitchens or quick desserts.

Key Takeaways

• Bake apple pie in air fryer: Achieve crispy crusts faster than conventional ovens.
• Preheat for best results: Ensures even baking and perfect texture every time.
• Use parchment paper: Prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup effortlessly.
• Monitor closely: Air fryers cook quickly; check at 15 minutes to avoid burning.
• Adjust temperature: Lower heat (350°F) prevents over-browning while cooking thoroughly.
• Store leftovers properly: Keep airtight to maintain crispness for 2-3 days max.

Can I Bake an Apple Pie in an Air Fryer? Discover the Crispy Truth

It’s a crisp fall evening, the kind where the leaves crunch underfoot and the scent of cinnamon feels like a hug. You’re craving a warm, flaky apple pie—but the oven is occupied, or maybe you just don’t want to heat up the whole kitchen. That’s when the idea hits: Can I bake an apple pie in an air fryer?

You’re not alone. Air fryers have become kitchen superheroes, promising crispy, golden results in minutes with minimal effort. From French fries to chicken wings, they’ve conquered the savory world. But desserts? Pies? That’s uncharted territory for many. I’ve been there—standing in my kitchen, staring at my air fryer, wondering if it could pull off a dessert as classic and delicate as apple pie. After testing, burning, and (yes) eating a lot of pie, I’ve got answers. And spoiler: it’s not just possible—it can be downright delicious. But there’s more to the story than just “yes” or “no.” Let’s dive in and uncover the crispy truth.

The Science Behind Baking Apple Pie in an Air Fryer

How Air Fryers Work (And Why It Matters for Pie)

First, let’s clear up a myth: air fryers don’t actually “fry.” They’re more like mini convection ovens. A heating element warms the air, and a powerful fan circulates it around your food at high speed. This creates a crisp exterior while cooking the inside evenly—perfect for things like roasted potatoes or chicken tenders. But how does that translate to baking a pie?

Traditional pies rely on radiant heat (from an oven) to slowly bake the crust and filling. The crust needs time to set and brown, while the filling needs to simmer and thicken. Air fryers, with their rapid air circulation, can mimic this—but with a twist. The intense airflow means browning happens faster, which is great for a golden crust. But it also means the filling can bubble over or cook unevenly if not managed. The key? Understanding the balance between speed and control.

Why Apple Pie Is a Unique Challenge

Apple pie isn’t just any dessert. It’s a delicate dance between a flaky, buttery crust and a juicy, spiced filling. In an oven, the heat rises gently, allowing the crust to set before the filling boils. In an air fryer, the air moves horizontally, which can:

• Brown the top crust too quickly, leaving the bottom soggy.
• Cause the filling to bubble over, making a mess and losing flavor.
• Overcook the apples before the crust is done, resulting in mush.

But here’s the good news: with the right technique, you can work with the air fryer’s strengths instead of against them. Think of it like baking a mini pie with a turbocharged oven. The results? A crust that’s crispier than oven-baked (thanks to the air circulation) and a filling that’s perfectly tender—if you time it right.

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking an Apple Pie in an Air Fryer

Preparing Your Pie: Size Matters

Not all pies fit in an air fryer. Most models have a 3–5 quart capacity, so you’ll need a small pie dish (6–7 inches) or individual ramekins. I’ve had success with 6.5-inch ceramic pie dishes—they fit snugly and conduct heat evenly. Avoid metal pans; they can get too hot and burn the crust.

For the crust, you have two options:

• Pre-made pie crust: A time-saver. I use the refrigerated kind (like Pillsbury)—just roll it out, line the dish, and trim the edges.
• Homemade crust: More work, but worth it. Use a classic butter-based recipe and chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling. It’ll hold its shape better.

Pro tip: Line the bottom of the dish with parchment paper. It prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

Making the Filling: Less Juice, More Flavor

Apple pie filling is the make-or-break step. In an air fryer, excess moisture is your enemy. Too much juice, and the crust will turn soggy before the filling thickens. Here’s how to nail it:

1. Choose the right apples: Go for firm, tart varieties like Granny Smith, Braeburn, or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape and add a nice tang to balance the sugar.
2. Thinly slice (¼-inch thick): Thinner slices cook faster and release less juice.
3. Pre-cook the filling (optional but recommended): Sauté the apples with sugar, cinnamon, and a thickener (like cornstarch or tapioca) for 3–4 minutes. This reduces excess moisture and jumpstarts the thickening process. Let it cool slightly before adding to the crust.

For the filling mix, I use:

• 3 cups sliced apples
• ¼ cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a less sweet option)
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (prevents browning)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (or 2 tsp tapioca starch)

Mix well and let it sit for 10 minutes to thicken.

Assembling and Baking: The Air Fryer Technique

Now, the fun part. Here’s my tried-and-true method:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes. This ensures even cooking from the start.
2. Add the bottom crust to the dish, then pour in the filling. Don’t overfill—leave ½ inch at the top to prevent bubbling over.
3. Add the top crust: Roll it out, cut slits for steam, and crimp the edges. For a golden finish, brush with egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water) or milk. Sprinkle with coarse sugar for crunch.
4. Place in the air fryer: Use the middle rack (if your model has one) for even heat. Cover the edges with foil if they brown too fast.
5. Bake for 25–30 minutes: Check at 20 minutes. The crust should be golden, and the filling should bubble gently. If the top is browning too fast, lower the temperature to 325°F (160°C) for the last 10 minutes.
6. Cool for 15 minutes before slicing. This lets the filling set and prevents a soupy mess.

Pro tip: If you’re making individual pies, reduce the time to 20–25 minutes. They cook faster and are easier to handle.

Common Pitfalls (And How to Avoid Them)

The Soggy Bottom Crust

Ah, the nemesis of pie bakers everywhere. In an air fryer, the intense heat can cook the top crust faster than the bottom, leaving you with a soggy mess. Here’s how to fix it:

• Pre-bake the bottom crust: Blind bake it for 5–7 minutes at 350°F (175°C) before adding the filling. This sets the crust and creates a barrier against moisture.
• Use a thicker bottom crust: Roll it slightly thicker than the top (about ⅛ inch). It’ll hold up better to the wet filling.
• Add a crumb layer: Sprinkle 1–2 tbsp of crushed graham crackers or breadcrumbs on the bottom crust before adding the filling. It absorbs excess juice and adds texture.

I once made a pie without pre-baking the crust, and the bottom was so soggy I had to scoop it out with a spoon. Lesson learned!

Bubbling Over and Messy Cleanup

Air fryers are compact, and apple pie filling is notorious for bubbling. To prevent a sticky, burnt mess:

• Don’t overfill: Leave at least ½ inch of space at the top.
• Use a pie shield: A ring of foil or a silicone pie crust protector keeps the edges from browning too fast and contains bubbles.
• Place a tray underneath: If your air fryer has a drip tray, line it with foil for easy cleanup.

One time, I forgot the foil, and the juice dripped onto the heating element. The smoke alarm went off, and I had to air out the kitchen for an hour. Not my finest moment.

Uneven Cooking

Air fryers can have hot spots, leading to uneven browning. To combat this:

• Rotate the dish halfway through: Give it a 180-degree turn for even exposure to the air flow.
• Use a smaller dish: A snug fit ensures better heat distribution.
• Check early: Start checking at 20 minutes. If one side is browning faster, adjust the temperature or cover with foil.

My first attempt at air fryer apple pie had a perfectly golden top but a pale bottom. Rotating the dish saved the next batch!

Air Fryer Apple Pie vs. Oven-Baked: A Taste Test

The Crust Showdown

I did a side-by-side test: one pie in my air fryer, one in my oven (375°F for 45 minutes). The results? The air fryer pie had a noticeably crispier crust—especially the top. The intense air flow created a golden, flaky texture that rivaled a deep-dish oven pie. The bottom crust was slightly less flaky but still tender, thanks to the pre-baking step.

The oven pie, meanwhile, had a more traditional, even crust. The top was golden, but not as crisp, and the bottom was slightly softer. Both were delicious, but the air fryer won for texture.

Filling: Juicy vs. Thickened

The air fryer’s rapid heat meant the filling thickened faster, with less juice. The apples were tender but still held their shape. The oven pie had more juice, which some might prefer, but it took longer to set. For me, the air fryer’s thicker filling was a win—no soupiness when slicing.

Time and Convenience

Here’s where the air fryer shines:

• Preheat time: 3–5 minutes (vs. 10–15 for an oven).
• Baking time: 25–30 minutes (vs. 40–45 for an oven).
• Energy use: Air fryers use less electricity, making them more efficient.

For a quick dessert or a small batch, the air fryer is a game-changer. For a large pie (9-inch), stick with the oven.

Beyond the Basics: Creative Air Fryer Pie Variations

Mini Pies for Parties

Air fryers are perfect for individual servings. Use muffin tins or small ramekins (4–5 inches) to make bite-sized pies. They bake in 20–25 minutes and are great for parties or portion control. I made a batch for a dinner party, and they were a hit—no cutting, no mess!

No-Bake Crusts (Yes, Really!)

Want a gluten-free or low-carb option? Try a nut-based crust:

• 1 cup almond flour
• ¼ cup coconut oil (melted)
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp cinnamon

Press into the dish, pre-bake for 7 minutes, then add the filling. It’s crunchy, nutty, and pairs perfectly with the spiced apples.

Fruit Swaps

Apple pie is just the beginning. Try these swaps:

• Peach pie: Use 3 cups sliced peaches, ¼ cup sugar, 1 tbsp cornstarch, and a splash of vanilla. Bake for 20–25 minutes.
• Blueberry pie: Use 3 cups blueberries, ¼ cup sugar, 2 tbsp cornstarch, and 1 tsp lemon zest. Bake for 25 minutes.
• Mixed berry pie: Combine strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries (3 cups total) with ¼ cup sugar and 1 tbsp cornstarch. Bake for 25–30 minutes.

The air fryer’s speed works for all of them!

Final Verdict: Is Air Fryer Apple Pie Worth It?

So, can you bake an apple pie in an air fryer? Absolutely—but with caveats. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, but for small batches, quick desserts, or crispy crust lovers, it’s a revelation. The air fryer delivers a pie that’s:

• Crispier than oven-baked (thanks to the air circulation).
• Faster and more energy-efficient (perfect for weeknight treats).
• Customizable (mini pies, nut crusts, fruit swaps).

That said, it’s not without challenges. The learning curve is real—expect a few failed batches before you nail the timing and technique. But once you do? You’ll have a go-to method for warm, flaky pie with minimal effort.

Here’s my final advice: Start small. Try a single-serving pie in a ramekin, follow the steps above, and tweak as you go. Keep notes on what works (and what doesn’t). And don’t be afraid to experiment—your air fryer is more versatile than you think.

In the end, the crispy truth is this: air fryer apple pie isn’t just possible—it’s a delicious, modern twist on a classic. So grab your favorite apples, preheat that air fryer, and get baking. The pie of your dreams might be 25 minutes away.

Data Table: Air Fryer vs. Oven Apple Pie Comparison

Factor	Air Fryer	Oven
Baking Time	25–30 minutes	40–45 minutes
Preheat Time	3–5 minutes	10–15 minutes
Crust Texture	Extra crisp top, slightly softer bottom	Even, golden, flaky
Filling Thickness	Thicker, less juice	More juice, slower to set
Best For	Small pies, quick desserts, crispy crust	Large pies, traditional texture
Energy Use	Lower	Higher

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake an apple pie in an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake an apple pie in an air fryer! The air fryer’s rapid hot air circulation creates a crispy crust and tender filling in less time than a conventional oven.

What size pie can I make in an air fryer?

Most air fryers accommodate 6-8 inch pie pans or disposable foil pie tins. Always check your air fryer’s basket dimensions to ensure proper fit and airflow.

How long does it take to bake an apple pie in an air fryer?

Baking an apple pie in an air fryer typically takes 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Pre-made crusts may cook faster, so monitor for golden browning.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer for apple pie?

Preheating for 3-5 minutes ensures even cooking and a crispier crust. This step is especially important if using a homemade or refrigerated pie dough.

Can I use store-bought crust for an air-fried apple pie?

Absolutely! Store-bought crust works well for air fryer apple pie—just ensure it fits your pan and isn’t overfilled to prevent spills during cooking.

What are the best apples for an air fryer apple pie?

Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn hold their shape and balance sweetness. Toss slices with cornstarch to prevent a soggy filling.