Baked apple chips are a fun and healthy snack! Just slice apples thin, sprinkle some cinnamon, and bake until crispy. They’re sweet, crunchy, and oh-so-good for you!
I love munching on these while watching my favorite movie—it feels like comfort food without the guilt! Plus, they’re super easy to make, so let’s get those apples ready! 🍏
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: For the best flavor and texture, choose crunchy and sweet varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp. You can also experiment with tart apples like Granny Smith for a different taste.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth and flavor. If you want to mix things up, try nutmeg or pumpkin spice instead! Adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
Sugar: The sugar is optional, but it enhances sweetness. You can skip it entirely for a cleaner snacking option, or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup if preferred.
Greasing: Using cooking spray or oil is optional and can help prevent sticking. If using parchment paper or a silicone mat, you can skip greasing altogether.
How Do I Get My Apple Chips Crispy?
The secret to crispy baked apple chips is in the air circulation during baking. Here’s how to nail it:
- Slice apples as thinly as possible—1/8-inch rounds are best. A mandoline slicer works wonders here!
- Arrange slices in a single layer without overlapping. This ensures even cooking and prevents sogginess.
- Rotate and flip the apple slices halfway through baking. This helps them crisp up evenly.
- Bake low and slow! Keeping the temperature at 200°F allows moisture to escape gradually without burning the edges.
- Once done, let them cool on the baking sheets. They’ll become crunchier as they cool.
Enjoy your crispy apple chips as a snack or a great addition to salads and yogurt!
Baked Apple Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chips:
- 2 large apples (such as Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar or brown sugar (optional)
- Cooking spray or a small amount of oil for greasing (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes for preparation, and then around 2 to 2.5 hours to bake. It’s a little time-consuming, but well worth the wait for those crispy chips!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 200°F (93°C). This low temperature is key to getting your apple chips crispy without burning them. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to help with easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Apples:
Wash and dry the apples. Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, slice the apples into thin rounds, about 1/8-inch thick. Be sure to remove any seeds you find in the slices. The thinner the slices, the crispier your chips will be!
3. Mix Cinnamon and Sugar (Optional):
If you like, combine the ground cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl. This sprinkle will add an extra layer of flavor to your apple chips, but feel free to skip this step if you prefer a simple apple taste.
4. Arrange the Slices:
Take your apple slices and spread them out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets. Make sure they’re not overlapping, as this can cause them to steam rather than bake.
5. Sprinkle with Cinnamon-Sugar:
If you’re using the cinnamon and sugar mixture, lightly sprinkle it over the apple slices. This is totally optional, but it’s a sweet touch!
6. Bake the Chips:
Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for about 1 hour. After 1 hour, flip each slice over to ensure they bake evenly. Continue baking for another 1 to 1.5 hours until the apple chips are dry and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
7. 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 crisp up even more as they cool down, so patience is key!
8. Store and Enjoy:
After they’ve cooled, transfer the baked apple chips to an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to one week (if they last that long!). Enjoy your crispy, sweet, healthy snack anytime!
These homemade baked apple chips are a delightful treat! Crunchy, naturally sweet, and simple to make, they’re perfect for snacking or adding to your favorite dishes!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Fuji, Gala, and Honeycrisp are great choices due to their sweetness and crunch, you can experiment with other varieties too. Tart apples like Granny Smith will give a different flavor, so feel free to mix and match based on your preference!
How Can I Prevent the Apple Chips from Getting Soggy?
To keep your apple chips crisp, ensure that the apple slices are thin and evenly spaced on the baking sheet. Flipping them halfway through the baking process also helps dry them out evenly. Baking at a low temperature allows moisture to escape without burning.
Can I Store Baked Apple Chips in the Freezer?
While it’s best to store apple chips at room temperature in an airtight container, you can freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure they’re fully cool, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw them in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
What Can I Do If My Apple Chips Are Not Crispy Enough?
If your apple chips aren’t crispy enough after the initial baking time, simply pop them back in the oven for an additional 15-30 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning, and allow them to cool completely after removing from the oven.
