I spotted apricots in the supermarket recently and, honestly, they’re something I usually just walk straight past. I tend to fall into the same routine each week — same fruits, same veg, same “safe” choices without really thinking about it.
This time, I decided to switch things up a bit and bought a pack of apricots.
When I got them home, they were a bit underripe and not particularly enjoyable to eat raw — firm, slightly bland, not much happening flavour-wise. I nearly left them in the fruit bowl and forgot about them.
Instead, I decided to experiment and tried cooking them in the air fryer with a little cinnamon.
And that completely changed them.
They softened, went slightly jammy around the edges, and the flavour became much sweeter and more fragrant. It turned into one of those simple kitchen moments that reminds you how much food can change with just a bit of heat and creativity.
Can you cook apricots in an air fryer?
Yes — and it’s one of the easiest ways to transform underripe apricots.
Air fryer apricots become soft, naturally sweet, and slightly caramelised without needing much added sugar. They’re also really versatile once cooked.
How to cook apricots in an air fryer
- Halve the apricots and remove the stones
- Place them cut-side up on a small piece of foil or in a shallow foil tray
- Sprinkle lightly with cinnamon (optional)
- Air fry at around 180°C for 6–10 minutes, depending on ripeness
They’re ready when they’ve softened and the edges start to look slightly jammy.
You can keep them simple or add:
- A drizzle of honey or maple syrup
- Vanilla or cinnamon
- A spoon of Greek yoghurt or coconut yoghurt to serve
- Chopped nuts for texture
Simple flavour variations (if you want to change it up)
Once you’ve tried them once, it’s easy to start experimenting a little:
- Add ginger for a gentle warmth
- Try cardamom for something a bit more fragrant
- A splash of orange juice or zest before cooking
- A pinch of nutmeg for a more “dessert-like” feel
Health benefits of apricots
Rich in carotenoids for skin and eye health
Apricots get their orange colour from carotenoids such as beta-carotene, which the body can convert into vitamin A.
These compounds support:
- Skin health and repair
- Eye health
- Immune function
- Protection against oxidative stress
Good source of fibre for digestion
Apricots contain fibre, which can help:
- Support healthy digestion
- Feed beneficial gut bacteria
- Improve fullness and satiety
- Support steadier blood sugar levels
Vitamin C and plant compounds
Fresh apricots also contain vitamin C and polyphenols, which contribute to antioxidant protection in the body.
What do apricots taste like when cooked?
When cooked — especially in the air fryer — apricots become:
- Softer and juicier
- Naturally sweeter
- Slightly floral and aromatic
- Almost jam-like in texture
It’s one of those simple changes that completely transforms them.
Easy ways to use apricots
Breakfast ideas
Try adding them to:
- Porridge
- Overnight oats
- Yoghurt bowls
- Smoothies
Simple desserts
They work really well with:
- Greek yoghurt and honey
- Vanilla ice cream
- A sprinkle of nuts or granola
Savoury combinations
Apricots also pair beautifully with:
- Feta or halloumi
- Rocket or leafy salads
- Couscous or grain bowls
- Fresh herbs like mint or basil
Easy fruit swaps if you don’t have apricots
This works just as well with other stone fruits:
- Peaches
- Nectarines
- Plums
If anything, the cooking method works just as nicely — it’s more about the transformation than the exact fruit.
Storage tip
If you’ve bought apricots that are slightly underripe:
- Leave them at room temperature to soften
- Once ripe, pop them in the fridge to slow things down
Or if they’re getting too soft:
- Slice and freeze them
- Great for smoothies or adding into porridge later
A small reminder from the kitchen
It’s so easy to get stuck in food routines without even noticing — buying the same things, cooking the same meals, sticking to what feels familiar.
But sometimes, just picking up one different fruit or ingredient can bring a bit of curiosity back into the kitchen.
For me, that turned out to be apricots — and a very simple air fryer experiment that I’ll definitely repeat.