If you’re on the hunt for a snack that checks every box—crispy, sweet, simple, and just a little bit nostalgic—look no further than these Cinnamon Apple Chips. They’re everything you love about apples, but transformed into impossibly crunchy chips dusted with a cozy cinnamon-sugar blend. Whether you need a kid-friendly lunchbox treat or a wholesome nibble for yourself, this recipe brings out the best in apples and will have you reaching for one chip after another.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Apples:
- 3 large apples, thinly sliced
Seasoning:
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional)
Others:
- Nonstick cooking spray
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Chips
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheets
First things first, preheat your oven to 225°F. This low-and-slow approach dries the apples without burning them. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper so the apple slices will release easily and cleanup is a breeze.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Wash and dry your apples thoroughly—no need to peel them, since the skins add color and a pleasant chew. Core the apples, then slice them into very thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. A mandoline is perfect for this if you have one, though a sharp knife and steady hand will do the trick. Thin, even slices are your best bet for super crisp Cinnamon Apple Chips.
Step 3: Arrange and Spice the Slices
Lay the apple slices in a single, non-overlapping layer on the prepared baking sheets. Give them a very light spray with nonstick cooking spray, just enough to help the cinnamon-sugar stick and encourage crisping. Evenly sprinkle with ground cinnamon and sugar if you’re using it, making sure every slice gets a touch of that sweet spice.
Step 4: Bake Low and Slow
Place the baking sheets in the oven and let the apples bake for 1 hour. Then, flip each slice carefully (tongs or a spatula help here) and return them to the oven for another 45 to 60 minutes. You’re looking for chips that are crisp and lightly golden—if they feel a little soft, don’t worry, they’ll crisp up as they cool.
Step 5: Cool for Extra Crunch
When the time’s up, turn off the oven and leave the chips inside with the door slightly open. This step helps any remaining moisture evaporate, and the chips get that irresistible crunch as they cool down completely. Once they’re cool, transfer your Cinnamon Apple Chips to an airtight container for snacking anytime.
How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Chips
Garnishes
Try dusting your Cinnamon Apple Chips with a bit of extra cinnamon or a hint of powdered sugar for an extra-pretty presentation. You can even shave a touch of dark chocolate over the top for a gourmet twist if you’re feeling fancy.
Side Dishes
While these chips are delightfully munchable solo, they also shine alongside a creamy Greek yogurt dip or a bowl of vanilla ice cream. Pair them with sharp cheddar cheese for a sweet-and-savory snack tray, or add them to a kid’s lunchbox as a crunchy alternative to traditional potato chips.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Cinnamon Apple Chips in little paper cones at a picnic, pack them into mason jars with a ribbon for gift giving, or use them as a crispy garnish for oatmeal, smoothie bowls, or even cocktails. They’re almost too pretty to eat—almost!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
For best crunch, store your Cinnamon Apple Chips in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll hold their crispness for several days, though they tend to disappear much faster! If you notice any softening, a quick stint in a warm oven will perk them right up.
Freezing
While you technically can freeze them, I suggest enjoying Cinnamon Apple Chips fresh or storing at room temp for the best texture. Freezing can introduce moisture and take away some of that coveted crunch, though they’re still tasty in a pinch.
Reheating
If your chips have lost a bit of their snap, simply spread them on a baking sheet and pop them in a 250°F oven for about 10 minutes. Let them cool before eating—they’ll be just as crispy as when first baked.
FAQs
Can I make Cinnamon Apple Chips without sugar?
Absolutely! Simply skip the granulated sugar and use just cinnamon—your chips will still be packed with flavor and a little healthier too.
What apple varieties work best?
Firm, slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Pink Lady make the crispiest and most flavorful chips, but you can use whatever you have on hand. Just stick to firm apples for best results.
Can I use a dehydrator instead of the oven?
Yes, a dehydrator creates incredibly crunchy Cinnamon Apple Chips with minimal hands-on time. Just follow your device’s instructions for fruit chips and use the same cinnamon-sugar seasoning.
How thin do the apple slices need to be?
The thinner, the better—aim for slices around 1/8 inch thick. This ensures even drying and maximum crunch. A mandoline is helpful but not required if you have patience and a sharp knife.
How do I know when the chips are done?
The chips should feel dry to the touch and maybe just a little bit pliable when hot, but they’ll crisp up completely as they cool down. If they’re still soft, bake them a bit longer, checking every five minutes or so.
Final Thoughts
Once you try making Cinnamon Apple Chips at home, you’ll understand why they’re a staple in any snack lover’s kitchen. They’re so easy, delightfully crunchy, and endlessly customizable—you won’t believe how quickly they disappear. Give them a try, share them with friends or family, and watch them vanish faster than you can bake a new batch!
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Cinnamon Apple Chips Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Enjoy crispy, flavorful Cinnamon Apple Chips as a delicious and healthy snack. These baked fruit chips are simple to make and perfect for satisfying your cravings.
Ingredients
ScaleApples:
- 3 large apples, thinly sliced
Seasoning:
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional)
Others:
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 225°F and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Slice Apples: Wash, core, and thinly slice the apples.
- Arrange: Place the apple slices in a single layer on the baking sheets.
- Season: Lightly spray with cooking spray and sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar (if using).
- Bake: Bake for 1 hour, flip the slices, and bake for an additional 45-60 minutes until crisp.
- Cool: Turn off the oven, leave the chips inside with the door slightly open to cool completely for extra crunch.
- Store: Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Notes
- Choose firm apple varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady for the best texture.
- For a no-sugar version, skip the sugar and use only cinnamon.
- These chips can also be made in a dehydrator for an even crunchier result.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup chips
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
