Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs are little pockets of joy filled with sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples wrapped in flaky pastry. These bite-sized treats are perfectly crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, making them a fun twist on traditional apple pie. They’re quick to make and even quicker to disappear!
I love making these when I want a cozy dessert without turning on the oven for a long time. Using the air fryer means they get beautifully golden and crispy in just minutes, and the smell filling the kitchen is amazing. My favorite part is that you can easily customize the filling—adding a bit of caramel or chopped nuts to mix things up.
These bombs are great for sharing at parties or as a sweet snack any time. I like to serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra special touch. Honestly, once you try them, they become a go-to recipe that everyone at home will ask for again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crescent Roll Dough: This dough gives the bombs their flaky, golden crust. If you want a sturdier dough, puff pastry works well too. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free crescent dough or puff pastry in stores.
Apples: Granny Smith apples are great for their tartness and hold up well during cooking. If you prefer sweeter bombs, try Fuji or Honeycrisp apples. Just chop them finely to match the cooking time.
Butter and Cinnamon Sugar: Butter helps the sugar stick and adds richness. If you want to skip butter, lightly spray with oil, but you may miss some flavor. You can swap cinnamon sugar for regular sugar or powdered sugar for a different texture.
Caramel Sauce: This is optional but adds a nice touch of sweetness. Any store-bought caramel sauce works, or try maple syrup or honey as alternatives.
How Do You Make Sure the Bombs Stay Sealed and Don’t Leak?
Keeping the pie bombs sealed is key to avoid mess and get a perfect shape. Here’s how:
- Press and seal all edges firmly with your fingers, pinching the dough together well.
- If the dough feels dry or cracks, a little water dabbed on the edges helps seal better.
- Don’t overfill — one tablespoon of filling is enough to prevent spills.
- Handle them gently while placing in the air fryer to keep the seal intact.
If a bomb breaks, it will still taste good but sealing well means less cleanup and better presentation.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – I recommend this because it crisps the bombs evenly without using much oil.
- Mixing bowls – for preparing the apple filling and cinnamon sugar mixture, keeping things organized.
- Skillet or small saucepan – perfect for cooking the apple filling until thickened and flavorful.
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter – helps to cut the crescent dough into even squares for consistent bombs.
- Pastry brush or spray – I like using this to lightly coat the bombs with butter for a golden finish.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for precise filling portions and sugar blends, making sure everything is just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Cheese Twist: Add a small piece of caramel or cheddar cheese inside the filling for a sweet-salty combo—delicious and fun.
- Nutty Touch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans into the apple filling or roll the assembled bombs in crushed nuts for extra crunch.
- Spice It Up: Mix in a pinch of ginger, cloves, or allspice into the filling to add warmth and depth of flavor.
- Berry Blast: Substitute or mix in chopped berries like blueberries or raspberries with the apples for a fruity twist.
How to Make Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dough and Filling:
- 1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough (about 8 oz)
- 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or your choice), peeled, cored, and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
For Coating and Serving:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for coating)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 tsp cinnamon (for rolling)
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare the filling and assemble the bombs, plus 8-10 minutes for air frying. You’ll spend just under half an hour total to enjoy these warm and delicious treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Apple Filling:
Start by melting 1 tablespoon of butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and vanilla extract. Stir frequently and cook until the apples are soft and the mixture thickens, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool a bit while you get the dough ready.
2. Prepare the Dough:
Unroll the crescent roll dough onto a clean surface and press along the perforations to seal the seams together, so it’s one solid piece. Cut the dough into squares about 2 inches by 2 inches.
3. Assemble Your Bombs:
Place about 1 tablespoon of the cooled apple filling in the center of each dough square. Carefully bring the corners up, pinch them together tightly, and seal completely to form a small ball or “bomb.” Make sure there are no gaps or openings.
4. Air Fry the Bombs:
Brush each bomb lightly with melted butter and place them in your air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd – leave space so the hot air can circulate. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remember to shake or turn them halfway through cooking for even crispness.
5. Coat and Serve:
When the bombs are warm, brush them again with melted butter. Roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until they’re fully coated. Drizzle with caramel sauce if you like and enjoy your warm, crispy Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs!
Can I Use Frozen Apples for the Filling?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before cooking. This helps prevent the filling from becoming too watery and ensures the dough stays crisp.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the bombs and keep them refrigerated for up to 24 hours before air frying. Just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover apple pie bombs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.
Can I Substitute Homemade Pie Crust or Puff Pastry?
Yes! Homemade pie crust or puff pastry can be used instead of crescent dough. Just cut into the same size squares and follow the rest of the steps as usual for delicious results.
