Crisp & Cozy: Delicious Air Fryer Fall Recipes You’ll Love
Fall is the season of cozy sweaters, vibrant foliage, and, of course, incredibly delicious food. From pumpkin spice everything to hearty stews, the flavors of autumn are comforting and satisfying. But who has time to spend hours in the kitchen these days? Enter the air fryer – your new best friend for creating quick, easy, and incredibly tasty fall dishes. This appliance is a game-changer, allowing you to enjoy all your favorite seasonal flavors with less oil and faster cooking times. Get ready to dive into a world of crispy, flavorful, and easy-to-make air fryer fall recipes!
## Why Use an Air Fryer for Fall Cooking?
The air fryer isn’t just another kitchen gadget; it’s a culinary workhorse, especially during the busy fall season. Here’s why you should embrace air frying this autumn:
* **Speed and Efficiency:** Air fryers cook food significantly faster than conventional ovens. This is a major plus when you’re trying to get dinner on the table quickly after a long day.
* **Healthier Cooking:** Air frying uses little to no oil, reducing the fat content of your meals without sacrificing flavor or texture. Enjoy crispy results with fewer calories!
* **Easy Cleanup:** Most air fryer baskets and trays are non-stick and dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze.
* **Versatility:** From appetizers to desserts, the air fryer can handle a wide range of fall recipes, making it a versatile tool for any home cook.
* **Crispy Perfection:** The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, creating a crispy exterior that’s hard to achieve in a regular oven.
## Must-Try Air Fryer Fall Recipes
Ready to get started? Here are some delectable air fryer fall recipes that are sure to become family favorites. Each recipe includes detailed instructions and tips to ensure perfect results every time.
### 1. Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donuts
Start your fall mornings with a warm, spiced treat that’s quick to make and guilt-free. These air fryer pumpkin spice donuts are a healthier alternative to traditional fried donuts, delivering all the delicious flavors of fall without the extra grease.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
* 1/2 cup buttermilk
* 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
* 1 egg
* 2 tablespoons melted butter
* **Glaze:**
* 1 cup powdered sugar
* 2-3 tablespoons milk
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Pinch of pumpkin pie spice (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Donut Batter:** In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, pumpkin puree, egg, and melted butter. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
2. **Fill the Donut Pan:** Transfer the batter to a piping bag or a large resealable bag with a corner snipped off. Pipe the batter into a silicone donut mold. You can also use a regular donut pan, but silicone molds are easier to work with in the air fryer.
3. **Air Fry the Donuts:** Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Carefully place the donut mold into the air fryer basket, ensuring it doesn’t touch the heating element. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model.
4. **Cool and Glaze:** Remove the donuts from the air fryer and let them cool slightly in the mold before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. While the donuts are cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice (if using) in a small bowl until smooth. Dip the cooled donuts into the glaze and let the excess drip off. Place the glazed donuts back on the wire rack to allow the glaze to set. Serve and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a richer flavor, use brown butter instead of melted butter in the donut batter.
* Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
* Experiment with different glazes, such as maple glaze or cream cheese frosting.
* Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
### 2. Air Fryer Apple Chips
A healthy and delicious snack that’s perfect for fall, these air fryer apple chips are crispy, sweet, and satisfying. They’re a great way to use up those extra apples from your fall harvest or apple picking trip.
**Ingredients:**
* 2-3 apples (such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji)
* 1 teaspoon cinnamon
* 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Apples:** Wash and core the apples. Using a mandoline or a sharp knife, slice the apples into thin, even slices (about 1/8 inch thick). The thinner the slices, the crispier the chips will be.
2. **Season the Apples:** In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with cinnamon and sugar (if using). Make sure the apples are evenly coated.
3. **Air Fry the Apple Chips:** Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Arrange the apple slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap. You may need to cook the apples in batches. Air fry for 10-15 minutes, or until the apple chips are crispy and slightly browned. Flip the apple chips halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crispness. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the apple slices and your air fryer model.
4. **Cool and Store:** Remove the apple chips from the air fryer and let them cool completely on a wire rack. As they cool, they will become even crispier. Store the cooled apple chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use a variety of apple types for a mix of flavors and textures.
* Sprinkle the apple chips with a pinch of salt for a sweet and salty treat.
* Add a dash of nutmeg or ginger to the cinnamon for extra warmth.
* For a caramel apple flavor, drizzle the apple chips with a light coating of caramel sauce after they’ve cooled.
### 3. Air Fryer Butternut Squash Fries
Move over, potato fries! These air fryer butternut squash fries are a healthier and more flavorful alternative that’s perfect for fall. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with nutrients.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed into fry-like shapes
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Butternut Squash:** Peel, seed, and cube the butternut squash into fry-like shapes, about 1/2 inch thick. Make sure the fries are relatively uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
2. **Season the Fries:** In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash fries with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the fries are evenly coated with the seasoning.
3. **Air Fry the Fries:** Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the butternut squash fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap. You may need to cook the fries in batches. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, or until the fries are tender and golden brown, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crispness. Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model.
4. **Serve and Enjoy:** Remove the butternut squash fries from the air fryer and serve immediately. They’re delicious on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce, such as aioli, ranch, or ketchup.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
* Toss the fries with grated Parmesan cheese after air frying for extra flavor.
* Serve the fries with a maple-mustard dipping sauce for a sweet and savory combination.
* For a healthier option, use coconut oil instead of olive oil.
### 4. Air Fryer Turkey Breast
Enjoy a tender and juicy turkey breast without the hassle of roasting a whole bird. This air fryer turkey breast recipe is perfect for smaller gatherings or when you just want a quick and easy turkey dinner.
**Ingredients:**
* 2-3 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Turkey Breast:** Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This will help it brown better in the air fryer.
2. **Season the Turkey:** In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the turkey breast, ensuring it’s evenly coated with the seasoning.
3. **Air Fry the Turkey:** Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the turkey breast in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. Cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the turkey breast.
4. **Rest and Serve:** Remove the turkey breast from the air fryer and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful turkey. Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a crispy skin, use a bone-in, skin-on turkey breast and increase the air fryer temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
* Add a bay leaf to the air fryer basket for extra flavor.
* Baste the turkey breast with melted butter or olive oil halfway through the cooking time to keep it moist.
* Use different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the turkey, such as sage, paprika, or onion powder.
### 5. Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Transform humble Brussels sprouts into a delicious and addictive side dish with this air fryer recipe. The air fryer crisps up the sprouts perfectly, while the balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:** Trim the Brussels sprouts and halve them. If the sprouts are large, you can quarter them to ensure even cooking.
2. **Season the Brussels Sprouts:** In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure the sprouts are evenly coated with the seasoning.
3. **Air Fry the Brussels Sprouts:** Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the Brussels sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket, cut-side up, making sure they don’t overlap. You may need to cook the sprouts in batches. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, or until the sprouts are tender and crispy, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model.
4. **Glaze and Serve:** Remove the Brussels sprouts from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving bowl. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and toss to coat. Serve immediately and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add bacon bits or pancetta to the Brussels sprouts for extra flavor and texture.
* Sprinkle the Brussels sprouts with grated Parmesan cheese after air frying for a savory twist.
* Use maple syrup instead of balsamic glaze for a sweeter flavor.
* Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the Brussels sprouts after air frying for extra brightness.
### 6. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole Bites
These individual sweet potato casserole bites are a fun and easy way to enjoy a classic Thanksgiving side dish. The air fryer makes them perfectly crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups cooked and mashed sweet potatoes
* 1/4 cup brown sugar
* 1/4 cup milk
* 1 egg, beaten
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
* **Topping:**
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/4 cup brown sugar
* 2 tablespoons cold butter, cut into small pieces
* 1/4 cup chopped pecans
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Sweet Potato Mixture:** In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, milk, egg, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2. **Make the Topping:** In a separate bowl, combine the flour and brown sugar. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped pecans.
3. **Assemble the Bites:** Grease a mini muffin tin. Spoon the sweet potato mixture into the muffin cups, filling them about 3/4 full. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
4. **Air Fry the Bites:** Preheat your air fryer to 325°F (165°C). Carefully place the muffin tin into the air fryer basket, ensuring it doesn’t touch the heating element. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sweet potato mixture is set. Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model.
5. **Cool and Serve:** Remove the sweet potato casserole bites from the air fryer and let them cool slightly in the muffin tin before transferring them to a serving platter. Serve warm and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use canned sweet potato puree for a quicker option.
* Add marshmallows to the topping for a classic sweet potato casserole flavor.
* Sprinkle the topping with a pinch of salt for a sweet and salty treat.
* Serve the bites with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup.
### 7. Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
Enjoy perfectly cooked corn on the cob without boiling or grilling! The air fryer gives the corn a slightly roasted flavor and a tender, juicy texture.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 ears of corn, husks removed
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Corn:** Remove the husks and silk from the corn on the cob. If the ears are too long to fit in your air fryer basket, you can cut them in half.
2. **Brush with Butter:** Brush the corn on the cob with melted butter, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Air Fry the Corn:** Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the corn on the cob in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap. You may need to cook the corn in batches. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the corn is tender and slightly charred, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model.
4. **Serve and Enjoy:** Remove the corn on the cob from the air fryer and serve immediately. They’re delicious on their own or with extra butter, salt, and pepper.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add garlic powder, paprika, or chili powder to the butter for extra flavor.
* Sprinkle the corn with grated Parmesan cheese after air frying for a savory twist.
* Wrap the corn in bacon before air frying for a smoky flavor.
* Serve the corn with a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro for a Mexican-inspired treat.
### 8. Air Fryer Stuffed Acorn Squash
These stuffed acorn squash halves are a hearty and flavorful vegetarian main course that’s perfect for fall. The air fryer roasts the squash to perfection, while the filling is packed with savory ingredients.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 acorn squash, halved and seeded
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
* 1/2 cup cooked lentils
* 1/2 cup chopped vegetables (such as mushrooms, onions, and carrots)
* 1/4 cup dried cranberries
* 1/4 cup chopped pecans
* 1 teaspoon dried sage
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Acorn Squash:** Halve the acorn squash and scoop out the seeds. Brush the cut surfaces with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
2. **Prepare the Filling:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cooked lentils, chopped vegetables, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3. **Stuff the Squash:** Spoon the filling into the acorn squash halves, packing it in tightly.
4. **Air Fry the Squash:** Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed acorn squash halves in the air fryer basket, cut-side up, making sure they don’t overlap. You may need to cook the squash in batches. Air fry for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the filling is heated through. Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:** Remove the stuffed acorn squash from the air fryer and serve immediately. They’re delicious on their own or with a side salad.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add sausage or ground beef to the filling for a heartier meal.
* Use different grains, such as rice or barley, instead of quinoa.
* Add cheese to the filling for extra flavor and richness.
* Top the stuffed squash with a balsamic glaze or a drizzle of maple syrup.
### 9. Air Fryer Pecan Pie Bars
These pecan pie bars are a delicious and easy dessert that’s perfect for fall gatherings. The air fryer creates a crispy crust and a gooey filling that’s sure to please.
**Ingredients:**
* **Crust:**
* 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
* 1/4 cup powdered sugar
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 3-4 tablespoons ice water
* **Filling:**
* 1 cup light corn syrup
* 1/2 cup brown sugar
* 1/4 cup butter, melted
* 2 eggs, beaten
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
**Instructions:**
1. **Make the Crust:** In a large bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. **Prepare the Filling:** In a large bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir in the chopped pecans.
3. **Assemble the Bars:** Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 8×8 inch baking pan. Press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the pan. Pour the filling into the crust.
4. **Air Fry the Bars:** Preheat your air fryer to 325°F (165°C). Carefully place the baking pan into the air fryer basket, ensuring it doesn’t touch the heating element. Air fry for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set. Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model.
5. **Cool and Serve:** Remove the pecan pie bars from the air fryer and let them cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Serve and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use a pre-made pie crust for a quicker option.
* Add chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolate pecan pie twist.
* Sprinkle the bars with a pinch of sea salt after baking for a sweet and salty treat.
* Serve the bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
### 10. Air Fryer Gingerbread Cookies
Get into the holiday spirit with these festive air fryer gingerbread cookies. They’re crispy, spiced, and perfect for decorating with icing and sprinkles.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
* 1/2 cup molasses
* 1 large egg
* **Icing:**
* 1 cup powdered sugar
* 2-3 tablespoons milk
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dough:** In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the molasses and egg. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. **Roll and Cut the Cookies:** Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out gingerbread shapes. Place the cookies on a parchment paper lined air fryer basket, leaving some space between them.
3. **Air Fry the Cookies:** Air fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model.
4. **Cool and Decorate:** Remove the cookies from the air fryer and let them cool completely on a wire rack. While the cookies are cooling, prepare the icing by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Decorate the cooled cookies with icing and sprinkles.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a pinch of black pepper to the dough for a spicy kick.
* Use different cookie cutters to create a variety of shapes.
* Add food coloring to the icing to create colorful decorations.
* Let the decorated cookies dry completely before storing them in an airtight container.
## Tips for Air Frying Success
To ensure your air fryer fall recipes turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
* **Preheat Your Air Fryer:** Just like a conventional oven, preheating your air fryer is important for even cooking and crispy results.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Basket:** Overcrowding the air fryer basket can prevent the hot air from circulating properly, resulting in unevenly cooked food. Cook in batches if necessary.
* **Use Oil Sparingly:** Air fryers require very little oil. A light coating of oil is usually sufficient to achieve crispy results.
* **Shake or Flip Food Halfway Through:** Shaking or flipping the food halfway through the cooking time ensures even browning and crisping.
* **Clean Your Air Fryer Regularly:** Regular cleaning will prevent buildup and ensure your air fryer performs optimally.
## Embrace the Flavors of Fall with Your Air Fryer
The air fryer is a fantastic tool for creating delicious and easy fall recipes. From sweet treats to savory dishes, the possibilities are endless. So, dust off your air fryer and get ready to enjoy a season of crisp, cozy, and flavorful meals! Happy air frying!