I’m super excited to share some of my absolute favorite guilt-free treats that you can whip up in your air fryer.
Over the years, I’ve discovered that my air fryer isn’t just for savory dishes—it’s a secret weapon for crafting sweet treats that taste indulgent without the extra calories.
Whether you’re craving something crispy, cakey, or fruity, these recipes prove that you can enjoy desserts without compromising on flavor or your health goals.
I’ve spent a lot of time tweaking these recipes to deliver the perfect balance of taste, texture, and nutrition. So if you’re ready to satisfy your sweet tooth while staying on track, grab your air fryer and let’s dive into these low-calorie delights!
1. Air Fryer Apple Chips
These air fryer apple chips are a wonderfully simple treat that transforms fresh apples into irresistibly crunchy, cinnamon-kissed delights.
They elevate the natural sweetness of apples and turn them into a snack that feels indulgent yet light.
Ingredients:
- 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work great), thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Cooking Instructions:
- In a large bowl, gently toss the apple slices with lemon juice; this not only prevents browning but also adds a subtle tang.
- Evenly sprinkle the ground cinnamon over the slices, ensuring every piece gets a light dusting.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the apple slices in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don’t overlap.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, checking frequently to ensure they crisp up nicely without burning.
Pro Tip:
For even crispier chips, try using a mandoline for uniform slices. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your apple slices—thinner slices yield a crunchier chip. These apple chips are not only low in calories but also high in fiber, making them a perfect, guilt-free snack any time of day.
2. Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
These air fryer cinnamon sugar donuts bring that classic, comforting donut flavor without the deep frying. They turn out light, airy, and satisfyingly sweet while keeping the calorie count in check.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup almond milk (or any low-calorie milk alternative)
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the topping: 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil and 1 tablespoon cinnamon sugar mix (mix cinnamon with a low-calorie sweetener if desired)
Cooking Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the egg, almond milk, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined. Spoon the batter into a lightly greased silicone donut mold.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook the donuts for 8–10 minutes until they’re golden and springy.
- Brush the tops with melted coconut oil and sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar mix while still warm.
Pro Tip:
Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the donuts light and fluffy. These donuts work best when enjoyed immediately after air frying, but they also reheat well in the air fryer for a few minutes if you need a quick warm-up.
Their tender texture paired with the crisp outer coating makes them a satisfying treat any time of day.
3. Air Fryer Chocolate Lava Cake
Indulge in a rich, decadent dessert without the heavy calories with this air fryer chocolate lava cake. It boasts a moist outer cake with a molten, gooey center that is perfect for those special moments when you crave something extraordinary.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup whole wheat pastry flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup low-calorie sweetener (like a stevia blend)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce (as a substitute for oil)
- 2 squares of dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), roughly chopped
Cooking Instructions:
- In a bowl, sift together the whole wheat pastry flour, cocoa powder, sweetener, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the egg, almond milk, vanilla extract, and applesauce. Stir until the batter is smooth and well blended.
- Spoon half of the batter into a small, greased ramekin. Place the dark chocolate pieces in the center, then cover with the remaining batter.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the ramekin in the basket and cook for 10–12 minutes until the edges are set but the center remains luscious and gooey.
Pro Tip:
Serve this lava cake immediately for the best molten effect. For an extra touch, garnish with a few fresh berries or a dusting of powdered cocoa.
The applesauce not only keeps the cake moist but also reduces the fat content, making this dessert a healthier indulgence.
4. Air Fryer Banana Bread Bites
These bite-sized banana bread treats capture the warm, comforting flavors of traditional banana bread while offering a healthier, lower-calorie alternative. They’re perfect for a quick snack or a light dessert.
Ingredients:
- 2 overripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup oat flour (or blend rolled oats into flour)
- 1/4 cup low-calorie sweetener (like erythritol or a stevia blend)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce
Cooking Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix together the mashed bananas, lightly beaten egg, vanilla extract, and applesauce until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk the whole wheat flour, oat flour, sweetener, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture until just incorporated.
- Spoon small dollops of the batter onto a parchment-lined tray that fits in your air fryer.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 8–10 minutes until the bites are firm on the edges and lightly golden.
Pro Tip:
For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a few chopped walnuts or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon on top before air frying. These bites are great warm, but they also make for a fantastic on-the-go breakfast or snack that’s both satisfying and wholesome.
5. Air Fryer Berry Crisp
Bursting with vibrant, tangy berries beneath a crunchy, oat-based topping, this air fryer berry crisp is a refreshing dessert that brings out the best in seasonal fruits.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon low-calorie sweetener (optional, depending on the sweetness of your berries)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
Cooking Instructions:
- In a bowl, gently toss the mixed berries with lemon juice and sweetener.
- Transfer the berries into a small, oven-safe dish that will fit in your air fryer.
- In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, almond flour, applesauce, cinnamon, and salt until the mixture forms a crumbly topping.
- Evenly sprinkle the oat topping over the berries.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 10–12 minutes until the topping is golden and the berries are bubbling.
Pro Tip:
For added texture, stir in a handful of chopped nuts with the oat topping before cooking. This dessert is excellent when paired with a spoonful of light Greek yogurt, adding a cool creaminess to each bite while keeping the dessert low in calories.
6. Air Fryer Peach Cobbler Cups
These individual peach cobbler cups combine the juicy, sweet-tart flavor of peaches with a tender, spiced topping, all baked to perfection in your air fryer.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon low-calorie sweetener
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt
Cooking Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine the diced peaches with lemon juice, sweetener, cinnamon, and nutmeg; set aside to let the flavors meld.
- In another bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, almond flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the almond milk and egg until just combined.
- Spoon a layer of the peach mixture into silicone muffin cups or ramekins, then top with the batter.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10–12 minutes until the batter is set and the top is lightly golden.
Pro Tip:
For a touch of extra flavor, drizzle a bit of honey or a squeeze of fresh lemon over the cobbler cups right before serving. These individual servings are perfect for portion control and make a charming dessert for any occasion.
7. Air Fryer Zucchini Brownies
Don’t let the name fool you—these zucchini brownies are a brilliant way to incorporate veggies into a dessert that’s rich, fudgy, and decadently chocolatey, yet low in calories.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium zucchini, grated (squeeze out excess moisture)
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup low-calorie sweetener (such as a stevia blend)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, cocoa powder, sweetener, baking soda, and salt.
- Stir in the grated zucchini, egg, applesauce, and vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined. Fold in dark chocolate chips if desired.
- Pour the batter into a small, greased baking dish that fits in your air fryer.
- Air fry for 12–15 minutes, checking with a toothpick until it comes out mostly clean.
Pro Tip:
These brownies are best when enjoyed warm. The zucchini not only adds moisture but also sneaks in extra fiber, making this treat a surprisingly healthy indulgence. For an extra decadent touch, serve with a spoonful of light whipped cream.
8. Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Muffins
Infused with the warm, comforting flavors of autumn, these pumpkin spice muffins are moist, tender, and baked to perfection in your air fryer. They’re a lighter twist on a seasonal classic that’s perfect any time of year.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup oat flour
- 1/4 cup low-calorie sweetener (like erythritol)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice blend
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
- Optional: A handful of chopped walnuts
Cooking Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, egg, and almond milk.
- In a separate bowl, mix the whole wheat flour, oat flour, sweetener, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin spice, and salt.
- Stir the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined; fold in walnuts if using.
- Spoon the batter into silicone muffin cups.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10–12 minutes until the muffins are firm and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Pro Tip:
These muffins are moist and flavorful—ideal for a quick breakfast or an afternoon snack. To enhance the pumpkin flavor, let the batter rest for 10 minutes before air frying. They pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee.
9. Air Fryer Strawberry Oat Bars
These strawberry oat bars combine juicy strawberries and hearty oats into a dessert that’s both refreshing and satisfying. They’re a perfect blend of chewy and fruity with just the right amount of sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup low-calorie sweetener (like a stevia blend)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cooking Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, sweetener, baking powder, and salt.
- Stir in the applesauce and vanilla extract until a thick batter forms.
- Gently fold in the sliced strawberries.
- Press the mixture evenly into a small, greased baking dish that fits your air fryer.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 12–15 minutes until the bars are set and lightly golden.
Pro Tip:
Let the oat bars cool for a few minutes before cutting into them to allow the texture to set. They make for an excellent on-the-go breakfast or a light dessert that satisfies your sweet cravings without weighing you down.
10. Air Fryer Mini Lemon Tarts
These mini lemon tarts offer a burst of tangy, refreshing citrus flavor paired with a delicate, crisp crust. They’re perfect for those who love a zesty finish to their dessert without all the calories.
Ingredients:
- For the crust:
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 2 tablespoons almond flour
- 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 tablespoon cold water (adjust as needed)
- For the filling:
- 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup low-calorie sweetener (like erythritol)
- 1 egg
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
Cooking Instructions:
- For the crust, combine the whole wheat and almond flours with the cold butter in a bowl. Mix until the texture is crumbly, then add cold water gradually until a dough forms. Press the dough into small tart pans or silicone molds.
- In another bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, sweetener, egg, lemon zest, and almond milk until smooth.
- Spoon the lemon filling into the pre-baked crusts.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 10–12 minutes until the filling is set and the crust is lightly browned.
Pro Tip:
For an extra burst of flavor, chill the tarts for about 15 minutes after air frying, then garnish with a few fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of powdered sweetener. These mini lemon tarts offer a refreshing, zesty contrast to richer desserts, making them an ideal palate cleanser or a delightful ending to any meal.
Conclusion
I hope these 10 low-calorie air fryer dessert recipes inspire you to experiment and indulge in healthier sweet treats. Each recipe is designed with care to provide all the flavor and satisfaction you crave, without overloading on calories.
Whether you’re in the mood for a crispy apple chip, a gooey chocolate lava cake, or a refreshing mini lemon tart, there’s something here to brighten your day and satisfy your dessert desires.
Enjoy the process, add your own twist to these recipes, and have fun making desserts that are as delightful as they are nutritious. Happy air frying and even happier dessert moments!
