Baked apple chips are a crunchy, healthy snack that’s super easy to make! You just slice apples thin, sprinkle some cinnamon, and bake them until crispy.
They’re perfect for munching on during movie nights or tossing in lunchboxes. I must admit, I sometimes snack on them for breakfast—even if it’s just me, they’re that good! 🍏
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith is a great choice because of its tartness. If you prefer sweeter chips, feel free to use Honeycrisp or Fuji apples. For a unique flavor, try using a mix of different varieties!
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon brings warmth to the chips. If you want to mix it up, consider using apple pie spice or even a dash of nutmeg for a different spin.
Sugar: Adding sugar is optional since it depends on your apple’s sweetness. For a healthier option, try using coconut sugar or skip it completely—your cinnamon will still shine through!
Salt: A pinch of salt balances sweetness but is not necessary. I sometimes leave it out, especially if I’m going for a straightforward apple flavor.
How Can You Achieve Perfectly Crispy Apple Chips?
The key to crunchy apple chips is all about thin, even slicing. Use a sharp knife or a mandoline to get uniformly thin slices—this helps them bake evenly.
Here’s a quick rundown of tips:
- Ensure the oven is at a low temp (200°F) for a long bake. This encourages drying without burning.
- Flip the apple slices halfway through baking to get them crisp on both sides.
- When they come out, let them cool completely. They will become crispier as they cool down!
- Store them in a sealed container. Make sure they’re completely cool first to avoid any moisture build-up.
With a little patience and these tips, you’ll have deliciously crispy baked apple chips ready to snack on anytime!
How to Make Baked Apple Chips
Ingredients You Will Need:
- 2 large apples (such as Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional)
- A pinch of salt (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and a total of 2 to 2.5 hours in the oven. Most of that time is baking, so you can relax or do other things while they cook!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 200°F (93°C). This low temperature will help the apple slices become nice and crispy without burning. While the oven is heating, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This makes cleaning up easier later!
2. Slice the Apples:
Next, wash and dry your apples. Then, using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, slice the apples very thinly—aim for about 1/8 inch thick or thinner. It’s okay to leave the peel on; it adds extra texture and color to the chips.
3. Arrange the Slices:
Now, take your apple slices and lay them out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets. Be careful not to overlap the slices; this helps them bake evenly and get crispy.
4. Spice It Up:
In a small bowl, mix together the ground cinnamon, optional sugar, and a pinch of salt, if using. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the apple slices to give them a lovely warm flavor—smelling amazing already!
5. Bake the Apple Chips:
Carefully place the baking sheets in the oven. Bake the apple slices for about 1 hour. After that, flip the slices over gently and continue baking for another 45 minutes to 1 hour. Keep an eye on them until they turn dry and crispy. The baking time can vary based on how thick your slices are and your oven’s specific temperature.
6. Cool Down:
Once they’re done baking, take the apple chips out of the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheets. They will get crisper as they cool, so make sure not to skip this step!
7. Storage:
After cooling, store your delicious baked apple chips in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week, but I bet they won’t last that long!
Enjoy your healthy, crunchy, and cinnamon-spiced baked apple chips anytime you need a tasty snack!
Can I Use Other Types of Apples for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are great for their tartness, you can use any variety you like. Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala apples will also work well and provide a sweeter flavor. Feel free to mix and match for a unique taste!
How Do I Prevent the Apple Chips from Browning?
If you’re concerned about browning, you can soak the apple slices in a mixture of water and lemon juice (1 tablespoon of lemon juice per cup of water) for about 5-10 minutes before baking. Rinse and pat them dry before arranging them on the baking sheets. This step will help maintain a nice color.
Can I Make These Chips in a Dehydrator Instead?
Yes, using a dehydrator is a great option! Simply set your dehydrator to 135°F (57°C) and arrange the apple slices in a single layer. Dehydrate for about 6-8 hours or until crisp. Check periodically for doneness!
How Can I Store Leftover Apple Chips?
Store leftover apple chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If they start to lose their crispness, you can re-bake them at a low temperature (around 200°F) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crunch!