Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Apples: The Ultimate Sweet & Savory Fall Appetizer
If you’re searching for an effortlessly impressive and incredibly delicious fall snack that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors, look no further than these **bacon wrapped apples**! This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet bite, made incredibly easy in your air fryer. These delightful morsels are not just a snack; they’re a show-stopping appetizer, ideal for any autumn gathering, holiday party, or even a special Thanksgiving starter. Their perfect blend of crispy, salty bacon and tender, sweet apple creates an irresistible treat that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Recipe
These air fryer bacon-wrapped apples offer a unique culinary experience, combining contrasting textures and tastes into one perfect bite. Beyond their delightful flavor, they are surprisingly simple to prepare, making them a go-to choice for busy hosts who want to impress without stress. Here’s why these sweet and savory apple bites will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen:
An Unforgettable Sweet and Savory Fusion
The magic of bacon-wrapped apples lies in their harmonious blend of flavors. You get the crisp, smoky, and salty notes of perfectly cooked bacon alongside the warm, tender, and naturally sweet taste of baked apples. This dynamic pairing is a classic for a reason, offering a depth of flavor that is both comforting and sophisticated. The subtle spices and optional hot honey further enhance this gourmet experience, creating a snack or appetizer that truly satisfies all your cravings.
Easy Preparation, Impressive Results
Despite looking like they came straight from a five-star restaurant, these bacon-wrapped apple bites are incredibly straightforward to make. With just a handful of main ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create an appetizer that looks and tastes far more complex than it is. The air fryer does most of the heavy lifting, ensuring perfectly cooked bacon and tender apples every time, making them a fantastic choice for entertaining during busy holiday seasons like Thanksgiving or New Year’s Eve.
Remarkably Versatile for Any Occasion
Bacon-wrapped apples are wonderfully adaptable. Serve them as an elegant appetizer at your next dinner party, a unique side dish alongside roasted meats, or even a surprising addition to your brunch spread. They seamlessly integrate into various culinary settings, complementing a wide array of other foods. Imagine them on a beautifully arranged charcuterie board, alongside an assortment of artisanal cheeses and savory dips – they’re particularly divine for fall entertaining when you want something warm and inviting.
A Crowd-Pleasing Delight for Everyone
These sweet and savory apple bites are a universal hit. Kids love the crispy bacon and sweet apple, while adults appreciate the sophisticated flavor profile and effortless elegance. They offer a fun and familiar twist on everyday ingredients, making them an instant favorite that will have guests reaching for more. Moreover, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, catering to a wider range of dietary needs, and can be easily customized with various seasonings to suit individual preferences, ensuring everyone at your table finds something to love.
Perfect for Seasonal Autumnal Eating
While delicious year-round, bacon-wrapped apples truly shine in the fall, when apples are at their peak freshness and abundance. They offer a creative and warming way to enjoy seasonal produce, moving beyond just eating an apple as a fresh fruit, which is how 60% of them are consumed in the US. Whether you’re hosting a game day, a harvest festival, or simply craving a cozy treat at home, these make a wonderful addition to any autumn menu, embracing the flavors of the season.
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Essential Ingredient List
Crafting these delectable bacon-wrapped apples requires only a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- 2-3 medium-sized **apples**, peeled, cored, and cut into approximately 1-inch thick wedges (yielding about 24 wedges total)
- 12 slices **bacon**, standard thickness, cut in half widthwise
- 1 teaspoon **ground cinnamon**
- 2 tablespoons **brown sugar**, packed
- 1 ½ tablespoons **hot honey** (optional, for a sweet heat finish)
Ingredient Tips and Smart Substitutions
While the basic recipe is straightforward, these tips will help you achieve the best flavor and texture, and offer creative variations:
- For the **apples**, selecting the right variety is crucial. You’re aiming for a firm apple that holds its shape well when cooked and won’t turn mushy. To achieve a balanced sweet-tart profile, Granny Smith apples are an excellent choice. If you prefer a less tart and sweeter option, Gala, Fuji, or Jazz apples work wonderfully. Remember, you’ll need about 24 apple wedges, so adjust the number of apples (usually 2-3) based on their size. *For the recipe pictured, three medium Gala apples were cut into eighths each.*
- Regarding **bacon**, standard-cut slices are recommended as they crisp up nicely and wrap easily. While the recipe calls for cutting bacon in half, you could try cutting it into thirds if you prefer the apple to be more prominent or want smaller bites (this would only require 8 slices of bacon total). Be aware that very thick-cut bacon might take longer to crisp, requiring slight adjustments to cooking time.
- The **cinnamon** adds a lovely warmth, enhancing the apple’s natural sweetness. For an “apple pie” inspired twist, feel free to incorporate other autumnal spices like a pinch of ground nutmeg or allspice. While a sprinkle of salt can sometimes elevate sweet dishes, the inherent saltiness of the bacon usually makes additional salt unnecessary in this recipe.
- The **hot honey** introduces a delightful sweet and spicy kick, making the final dish even more exciting. However, if you’re not a fan of heat, regular honey can be used for a classic sweet glaze. For those who prefer less sweetness overall, you can substitute the brown sugar entirely with honey or simply omit the honey altogether. If you crave more spice, a small pinch of cayenne pepper can be added with the cinnamon and sugar mixture.
- For a delightful **cheese variation**, consider adding a small slice of sharp cheddar or creamy brie cheese alongside each apple wedge before wrapping it with bacon. Ensure the bacon is wrapped securely around both the apple and cheese to minimize any melting cheese from leaking out during cooking. This addition elevates the appetizer to another level of gourmet indulgence.
Simple Step-by-Step Instructions
Making these delicious bacon-wrapped apples in your air fryer is quick and straightforward. Follow these steps for perfect results every time:
- In a medium mixing bowl, **combine the ground cinnamon and brown sugar**. Add the halved bacon strips and toss them thoroughly until each piece is evenly coated with the sweet and spicy mixture. This step infuses the bacon with flavor before cooking.
- Take one of your prepared apple wedges, then **carefully wrap a half strip of the sugar-coated uncooked bacon around it**. Start at one end of the apple wedge and tightly wrap the bacon towards the other end. Continue this process until all apple wedges are wrapped. *To prevent the bacon from unraveling during cooking, I typically tuck the end underneath. Alternatively, you can secure it with a wooden toothpick that has been soaked in water for 15-20 minutes to prevent burning.*
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped apple slices into your air fryer’s basket or onto the rack. Ensure they are placed seam-side down in a single layer, with a bit of air space between each one to allow for even cooking and crisping. *If you have a smaller air fryer, you may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to steaming rather than crisping.*
- **Air fry the apple bites at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes.** Make sure to flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure the bacon browns and crisps evenly on all sides. Once the bacon is mostly crisp and the apples are tender, if using, **brush or spoon the hot honey over each piece**. Return them to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the honey has caramelized beautifully and the bacon reaches your desired level of crispness.
- Once cooked, **carefully remove any toothpicks** (if used, you can replace them with fresh ones for a clean presentation if serving as an appetizer). If desired, drizzle with a bit more hot honey for extra flavor and shine. Serve immediately and enjoy these perfectly balanced sweet and savory treats!
Alternate Oven Baking Directions
No air fryer? No problem! You can easily prepare these bacon-wrapped apples in a conventional oven:
- **Prepare the bacon-wrapped apples as instructed in steps 1 and 2.** For best results, place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around all sides, promoting crispier bacon. (If you don’t have a wire rack, you can create a makeshift one from crumpled foil, or simply plan to flip the apples a couple of times during baking).
- **Bake in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes.** If you’re not using a wire rack, flip the apples after about 10-12 minutes to ensure even cooking and browning. Continue baking until the bacon is crispy and the apples are tender.
- **During the last 5 minutes of cooking**, if using, brush the hot honey over each apple bite. Allow it to caramelize slightly before removing from the oven. Serve warm and enjoy!
Perfect Pairing Suggestions
Bacon-wrapped apples are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of dishes and drinks. Here are some suggestions to elevate your culinary experience:
Elegant Cheese & Charcuterie Combinations
- These sweet and savory bites are a natural fit for a **well-curated cheese board**. Pair them with sharp cheddar, creamy gouda, soft brie, or even a tangy blue cheese. The contrast of textures and flavors is exquisite.
- To create a full sweet-salty spread, add a selection of **cured meats** such as delicate prosciutto, spicy salami, or savory coppa. The richness of the meats complements the apple and bacon perfectly.
Fresh Salads & Green Sides
- Serve them alongside a refreshing **arugula or spinach salad** featuring goat cheese, crunchy candied nuts, and a bright balsamic vinaigrette. You can even chop the cooked bacon-wrapped apples and add them *into* the salad as a unique and flavorful topping!
- For a heartier option, try pairing with a vibrant **kale salad** tossed with dried cranberries and toasted pecans. The slight bitterness of kale and the tartness of cranberries provide a wonderful balance to the richness of the bacon and sweetness of the apples.
Complementary Main Courses
- Bacon-wrapped apples are a classic accompaniment to **roasted pork tenderloin** or chicken. The sweet apple notes enhance the savory flavors of these meats, making for a truly satisfying meal.
- They also beautifully complement **grilled sausages**. If you don’t have a grill handy, consider preparing some Air Fryer Smoked Sausage for an easy and delicious pairing.
Beverage Pairings
- For drinks, enjoy these with **crisp hard ciders** (or non-alcoholic ciders), a glass of festive **sparkling wine**, or a warming **bourbon cocktail**. Try a homemade **Caramel Apple Hard Cider** or a **Crown Apple Whiskey Sour** for some truly inspired pairings!
- A comforting mug of **hot apple cider** or even a light, crisp beer also makes for an excellent accompaniment, especially during cooler months.
Enhancing Dips & Extras
- Offer a creamy **maple mustard dip** or a savory **herb dip** on the side for an extra layer of flavor and moisture.
- For an elegant touch, a final drizzle of rich **maple syrup**, decadent **caramel sauce**, or a tangy **balsamic glaze** over the top just before serving can elevate the dish even further.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do Apples And Bacon Go Together?
Absolutely, apples and bacon are a truly fantastic culinary pairing! The distinct salty, smoky, and crispy texture of bacon provides a delightful contrast to the natural sweetness and slight tartness of apples, especially when they’ve been cooked until tender. This combination creates a complex and deeply satisfying sweet-savory flavor profile that appeals to a wide range of palates. It’s a classic flavor pairing often found in various dishes, from appetizers to main courses.
What Is Food Wrapped In Bacon Called?
Food wrapped in bacon is most commonly referred to as “bacon-wrapped,” followed by the specific name of the food item. For instance, you’d say “bacon-wrapped apples” or “bacon-wrapped dates.” When these are prepared as small, bite-sized appetizers, they might also be creatively named “bacon bites,” “bacon bundles,” or “piggybacks,” depending on the specific ingredients and presentation.
What Meat Does Apple Go With?
Apples have a remarkable affinity for various meats, but they pair exceptionally well with pork. This includes cuts like pork chops, tenderloin, and, of course, bacon! The sweet and tart notes of apples cut through the richness of pork, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile. Beyond pork, apples also complement poultry beautifully, making them a great addition to dishes featuring chicken and turkey, where their acidity and sweetness can brighten the overall taste.
Expert Tips for the Best Bacon Wrapped Apples
To ensure your bacon-wrapped apples are absolutely perfect every time, consider these helpful tips:
- If you’re hosting a larger gathering or simply want to have more on hand, you can **easily double or triple the batch** of this recipe. To save time on the day of your event, you can peel, core, cut, and wrap the apples in advance. To prevent the apple slices from browning, toss them in a small amount of fresh lemon juice before wrapping with bacon. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and cook just before serving for optimal freshness and crispness.
- This recipe was developed and tested using Gala apples, regular (not thick-cut) bacon, and a Ninja Dual Zone air fryer (without preheating). It’s important to remember that **different brands and varieties of apples, bacon thicknesses, and air fryer models can affect cooking times and results**. Thick-cut bacon, for example, will require more time to crisp. Always keep an eye on your apples and bacon during cooking and adjust the timing as needed to achieve your desired level of doneness and crispness for your specific equipment and ingredients.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
While these bacon-wrapped apples are best enjoyed fresh, you can store and reheat leftovers:
Storage Tips
- **Refrigerator:** Any leftover bacon-wrapped apples can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While they won’t be as crispy as fresh, they’ll still be delicious.
- **Layer Carefully:** If you need to stack the apples in your container, place a piece of parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together.
Reheating Tips
- **Oven or Air Fryer (Recommended):** For the best results and to regain that desirable crispy bacon texture, reheat your leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes, or in your air fryer at the same temperature for 3-5 minutes. Reheat until they are warmed through and the bacon has re-crisped.
- **Microwave (Not Recommended for Crispness):** While you *can* reheat them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds until warm, be aware that the bacon will not regain its crispness and might become chewy. This method is only recommended if texture is not a primary concern.
More Sweet & Savory Bacon-Wrapped Fruit Recipes
Bacon Wrapped Peaches: Sweet & Savory Air Fryer Recipe!
Irresistible Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Dates w/ Goat Cheese
- **Bacon Wrapped Watermelon** (for a refreshing summer twist)
- **Bacon Wrapped Pineapple** (for a tropical and tangy treat)
Final Thoughts: Your New Favorite Fall Appetizer
These air fryer bacon-wrapped apples are truly a standout recipe and have quickly become one of my absolute favorite easy appetizers for the fall season. They hit all the right notes, delivering that perfect, unforgettable combination of sweet and savory in every single bite. The blend of crispy, salty bacon with tender, spiced apples is not just delicious but also incredibly satisfying and visually appealing, making them a surefire way to impress your guests.
Whether you’re gearing up for a festive Thanksgiving feast, planning a New Year’s Eve celebration, hosting a casual game day get-together, or simply looking for a delightful snack, these delicious wrapped apple slices are perfectly suited for any occasion. Their ease of preparation combined with their gourmet taste makes them an essential addition to your entertaining repertoire.
If you’re eager to explore more fantastic ways to utilize a bushel of fresh, seasonal fruit, be sure to check out all of my Air Fryer Apple Recipes. You’ll find a wide array of sweet, savory, and truly delicious options that are perfect for experimenting with and enjoying all year long!
Bacon Wrapped Apples (Air Fryer)
Equipment
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Air Fryer
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Mixing bowl
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Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 2-3 apples (peeled, cored, and cut into approximately 1” thick wedges)
- 12 slices bacon (standard cut, cut in half widthwise)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1 ½ Tbsp hot honey (optional, for a sweet and spicy glaze)
Instructions
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In a mixing bowl, combine the ground cinnamon and brown sugar. Add the bacon strips and toss to evenly coat each piece.12 slices bacon, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 2 Tbsp brown sugar
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Grab an apple slice, then wrap a half strip of uncooked bacon around it, starting at one end and working towards the other. Repeat until all apples are wrapped. I usually tuck the end to keep it from unraveling, but you could also secure it with a toothpick that’s been soaked in water for 15-20 minutes.2-3 apples
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Place the bacon-wrapped apple slices into your air fryer’s basket or rack seam side down in a single layer, ensuring there is air space between each one. Cook in batches if necessary to prevent overcrowding.
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Cook on the air fry setting at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until the bacon is browned and mostly crisp. Then, brush or spoon on the hot honey (if using), and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, until caramelized to your liking.1 ½ Tbsp hot honey
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Remove any toothpicks (if used; you can add fresh ones for serving), drizzle with additional hot honey if desired, and enjoy your delicious, sweet and savory bacon-wrapped apples!
Notes
- You’ll want to get approximately 24 slices in total from your apples, so depending on their size, you’ll likely need 2-3 on average. It’s best to use a firm apple variety (avoid mushy ones) to ensure they hold their shape during cooking. Granny Smith apples are excellent for a balanced sweet-tart flavor, while Gala, Fuji, or Jazz offer a sweeter and less tart option. For the version pictured, I used 3 Gala apples, cutting each into eighths.
- Instead of cutting the bacon slices in half, you could opt for thirds (which would mean you only need 8 slices of bacon total). This will result in more of the apple showing, offering a different presentation. Ensure to use standard-cut bacon for best results as thick-cut may require longer cooking times.
- Beyond the cinnamon, feel free to incorporate other warm spices like a pinch of ground nutmeg or allspice to create an inviting apple pie-like flavor profile (this is entirely optional). While a light sprinkle of salt can sometimes enhance flavors, I typically find it unnecessary due to the inherent saltiness of the bacon.
- I enjoy adding hot honey for its unique sweet heat finish. If you prefer, regular honey can be used instead for a purely sweet glaze, or you can omit the honey entirely for a less sweet alternative. For those who love an extra kick, a touch of cayenne pepper can be added alongside the cinnamon for another spiced variation!
- Please note that the exact nutritional values will vary based on the specific brand, variety, size, and flavor of ingredients used, along with any optional sauces or additions, and the actual quantity consumed. Therefore, consider the provided nutritional information as a general guideline only.
Nutrition
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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