Apple pie is a timeless dessert that holds a special place in hearts worldwide. But what if you could enjoy the delicious flavors of apple pie in a quicker, bite-sized, and hassle-free format? That’s where Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs come in. These tiny, golden treats pack the essence of classic apple pie into a portable, mess-free snack. With just a few ingredients and a trusty air fryer, you can whip up these bites of perfection in no time.
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The History of Apple Pie Bombs
The concept of bite-sized desserts isn’t new. Miniature pastries, hand pies, and turnovers have been around for centuries. However, the idea of “pie bombs” took off in recent years with the rise of air fryers, which allow for crispy, golden exteriors without the mess of frying in oil. This recipe combines the nostalgia of homemade apple pie with modern convenience, delivering a treat that’s perfect for busy schedules, parties, or a cozy night in.
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Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Family-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike.
Versatile: Easily adaptable to different fillings like cherry, blueberry, or chocolate.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for dessert tables, snacks, or even breakfast treats.
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Ingredients You’ll Need
⅓ cup butter: Adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar stick to the bombs.
½ cup cinnamon sugar: For a sweet, spiced coating.
1 cup apple pie filling: The star of the show—sweet and tender apple goodness.
1 can Pillsbury Grands Flaky Layers biscuits: Convenient and perfectly flaky. Use Sweet Hawaiian, Honey Butter, or Original for varied flavor profiles.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready when your pie bombs go in.
Step 2: Flatten the Biscuits
Take each biscuit from the can and flatten it into a round disk. Use your hands or a rolling pin to make the disks thin enough to wrap around the filling but not so thin that they tear.
Step 3: Add the Filling
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of apple pie filling into the center of each biscuit disk. Be careful not to overfill to avoid leaks during cooking.
Step 4: Seal the Bombs
Fold the edges of the biscuit dough over the filling and pinch them tightly to seal. Roll them gently in your hands to form smooth, round balls.
Step 5: Coat in Butter and Cinnamon Sugar
Melt the butter in a small bowl. Dip each sealed pie bomb into the butter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, roll it in the cinnamon sugar mixture until completely covered.
Step 6: Air Fry
Place the apple pie bombs in the air fryer basket, making sure there’s space between each one for even cooking. Air fry at 350°F for 8–10 minutes, or until the bombs are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the pie bombs cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, with the filling still gooey and the coating crisp.
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Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs
Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can cause the bombs to burst during cooking.
Seal Tightly: Ensuring the edges are sealed well prevents leaks and ensures even cooking.
Use Parchment Paper: If you’re worried about sticking, line your air fryer basket with parchment paper.
Try Different Fillings: Experiment with cherry pie filling, Nutella, or even savory options like cream cheese and spinach.
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Serving Suggestions
Classic Style: Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Decadent Touch: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with caramel sauce.
Holiday Twist: Add crushed pecans or raisins to the apple pie filling for extra flavor.
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Storing and Reheating
Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 2–3 minutes to restore the crispiness.
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Nutritional Information
Calories: ~200 per serving
Servings: 8 pie bombs
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Variations to Try
1. Peach Pie Bombs: Swap apple pie filling for peach filling and add a touch of nutmeg.
2. Chocolate Hazelnut Bombs: Fill with Nutella and skip the cinnamon sugar for a rich, indulgent treat.
3. Savory Bombs: Use cream cheese, spinach, and garlic butter for a savory appetizer option.
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Backstory and Fun Facts
Apple desserts have been a staple in American cuisine for centuries, with the phrase “as American as apple pie” symbolizing its deep cultural roots. The invention of air fryers has breathed new life into classic recipes like this one, making them more accessible and convenient for modern cooks. These apple pie bombs capture the essence of tradition while embracing innovation.
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Why Air Fryers Are a Game-Changer
The air fryer revolutionized home cooking by offering a healthier, quicker alternative to deep frying. Its ability to create crispy, golden exteriors without excessive oil makes it perfect for recipes like apple pie bombs. Plus, it’s easy to clean and energy-efficient!
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Conclusion
Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs are the perfect blend of tradition and innovation. They bring the warm, comforting flavors of apple pie into a modern, easy-to-make format that anyone can enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a quick dessert, or satisfying a late-night craving, these pie bombs are sure to impress. Give them a try and experience the magic yourself!
