Baked apple chips are a fun and tasty snack! They’re crispy, sweet, and perfect for munching. All you need are some fresh apples and a little cinnamon for extra flavor!
Making these chips is easy! I love slicing the apples thin, popping them in the oven, and waiting for that delicious smell. They disappear quickly at my house—who can resist? 🍏🍎
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: I recommend using a mix of Granny Smith for tartness and Fuji for sweetness. If those aren’t available, Honeycrisp or Pink Lady work well too. Just choose firm apples to ensure they slice cleanly!
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds a warm flavor, but you can also try apple pie spice for a different twist. If you prefer, you can skip the spice altogether for a pure apple taste.
Sugar: The granulated or brown sugar is optional, depending on your taste. For a healthier option, consider using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia. Just keep in mind that too much sweetness can mask the apple flavor!
Lemon Juice: This helps prevent browning and keeps the color bright. If you don’t have lemon juice, vinegar can do the trick, but use it sparingly to avoid any strong flavor.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Apple Chips?
A big tip for achieving crispy apple chips is to slice them evenly. A mandoline slicer works wonders for this job; just be careful with the sharp blades!
- Preheat your oven accurately to ensure consistent cooking.
- Spread the apple slices out without overlapping; crowding them will lead to uneven drying.
- Keep an eye after the first hour. Flip them to help both sides crisp evenly.
- Let them cool completely on a wire rack. This final step is where they truly become crunchy!
By following these tips, you’ll have deliciously crispy apple chips that make for a sweet and healthier snack option!
Baked Apple Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chips:
- 3 large apples (like Granny Smith for tartness and Fuji for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: 1 tablespoon granulated sugar or brown sugar (for sweeter chips)
- Optional: about 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 1.5 to 2 hours of baking time. Don’t forget to set some time for cooling afterward! In total, you’ll be looking at around 2.5 hours before you can munch on your crispy apple chips.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 200°F (93°C). This low temperature is key for drying the apples without burning them. While it’s heating, line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup!
2. Prepare the Apples:
Wash and thoroughly dry your apples. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, carefully slice the apples into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. Make sure to remove any seeds as you go. Slicing them evenly will help them bake uniformly.
3. Prevent Browning (Optional):
If you want to keep your apple slices looking fresh and bright, toss them gently with a little lemon juice. This step is optional, but it really helps in avoiding browning!
4. Arrange the Slices:
Next, lay the apple slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets. Be sure not to overlap them; this will help them dry out properly, turning into the crispy chips we love!
5. Add the Cinnamon Sugar:
In a small bowl, mix together the ground cinnamon and sugar if you’re using it. Sprinkle this mixture lightly over the apple slices, giving them a sweet and spiced flavor boost.
6. Bake the Chips:
Place your baking sheets in the oven and allow the apple slices to bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours. At the one-hour mark, check and flip them over gently to help them crisp up on both sides. Keep an eye on them toward the end to avoid too much browning.
7. Cool and Crisp:
Once they are dried out and crispy, carefully remove the apple chips from the oven. Let them cool completely on a wire rack; they’ll continue to crisp up as they cool off.
8. Store Your Chips:
Once fully cooled, store your baked apple chips in an airtight container. They can last up to a week—if you can resist eating them all before then!
Enjoy your healthy, crunchy, and naturally sweet baked apple chips as a delightful snack or a topping for your favorite desserts!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Fuji are great choices, you can experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Pink Lady. Just make sure to choose firm apples for the best results!
How Do I Store Leftover Apple Chips?
Store any leftover apple chips in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about a week. If you notice them getting a bit soft, you can pop them back in the oven for a few minutes to crisp them up again!
Can I Add Other Flavors to the Chips?
Yes, feel free to get creative! You can add nutmeg or even a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick. Vanilla extract or a drizzle of honey can also be wonderful additions before baking!
What If My Apple Chips Aren’t Crisping Up?
If they’re not as crispy as you’d like after baking, it may be due to the thickness of your slices. Make sure they’re sliced evenly and thinly. If needed, just pop them back in the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes and keep an eye on them to avoid burning!