Cinnamon Apple Chips are a delightful snack that perfectly balances sweetness and crunch, making them an irresistible treat for all ages. As someone who has always had a passion for healthy snacking, I find that these chips not only satisfy my cravings but also bring a touch of nostalgia. The history of apple chips dates back to the early days of preserving fruits, where families would dry apples to enjoy them throughout the year. Today, we celebrate this age-old tradition with a modern twist by adding aromatic cinnamon, which elevates the flavor profile to new heights.

People love Cinnamon Apple Chips for their satisfying texture and the warm, comforting taste of cinnamon that envelops each bite. They are not only delicious but also incredibly convenient, making them a perfect on-the-go snack or a healthy addition to lunchboxes. Whether you enjoy them as a standalone treat or use them as a topping for yogurt and salads, these chips are sure to become a favorite in your household. Join me as we explore the simple yet rewarding process of making your own Cinnamon Apple Chips at home!

Ingredients:

4 medium-sized apples (I prefer Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for their tartness)
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon sugar (optional, depending on your sweetness preference)
Juice of 1 lemon (to prevent browning)
Cooking spray or parchment paper (for baking)

Preparing the Apples

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 200°F (93°C). This low temperature is key to slowly dehydrating the apples without burning them. 2. **Wash and Core the Apples**: Rinse the apples under cold water to remove any dirt or wax. Using an apple corer or a sharp knife, remove the core from each apple. If you don’t have a corer, you can simply slice the apples into thin rounds, but be sure to remove the seeds. 3. **Slice the Apples**: Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, slice the apples into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. The thinner the slices, the crispier the chips will be. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking. 4. **Prevent Browning**: In a large bowl, squeeze the juice of one lemon over the apple slices. Toss the slices gently to coat them in the lemon juice. This step not only adds a hint of flavor but also helps prevent the apples from browning.

Seasoning the Apples

5. **Mix the Cinnamon and Sugar**: In a small bowl, combine the ground cinnamon and sugar (if using). Adjust the sugar based on your taste preference; you can omit it entirely if you prefer a more natural flavor. 6. **Coat the Apple Slices**: Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the apple slices. Toss them gently to ensure that each slice is evenly coated. I like to do this in batches to make sure every slice gets that delicious flavor.

Baking the Apple Chips

7. **Prepare the Baking Sheets**: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly spray them with cooking spray. This will prevent the apple chips from sticking and make cleanup easier. 8. **Arrange the Apple Slices**: Lay the apple slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets. Make sure they are not overlapping; this allows for even drying and crisping. If you have a lot of slices, you may need to bake them in batches. 9. **Bake the Apple Chips**: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven. Bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, flipping the apple slices halfway through the baking time. Keep an eye on them towards the end; they should be dry and crisp but not burnt. The baking time can vary based on the thickness of your slices and the type of apple used. 10. **Check for Doneness**: After about 1.5 hours, start checking the apple chips. They should be crisp and break easily when you try to bend them. If they are still pliable, give them more time in the oven.

Cooling and Storing the Chips

11. **Cool the Chips**: Once the apple chips are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 10 minutes. They will continue to crisp up as they cool. 12. **Store the Apple Chips**: Once completely cooled, transfer the apple chips to an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, consider vacuum sealing them or storing them in the fridge.

Serving Suggestions

13. **Enjoy Your Apple Chips**: These cinnamon apple chips make a fantastic snack on their own, but you can also get creative! Serve them with a side of almond butter or peanut butter for dipping, or crumble them over yogurt or oatmeal for added crunch and flavor. 14. **Experiment with Flavors**: If you want to switch things up, try adding different spices to the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Nutmeg, ginger, or even a pinch of cayenne can add a unique twist to your apple chips. 15. **Share with Friends**: These apple chips make a great gift! Package them in a cute jar or bag and share them with friends and family. They’ll appreciate the homemade touch and the delicious flavor. Now that you have this detailed recipe for cinnamon apple chips, I hope you enjoy making them as much as I do! They’re a healthy, tasty snack that’s perfect for any time of the day. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

In summary, these Cinnamon Apple Chips are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a healthy yet delicious snack. The combination of sweet, crisp apples and warm cinnamon creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and satisfying. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time. For serving suggestions, I love to enjoy these chips on their own, but they also make a fantastic addition to a cheese platter or as a topping for yogurt and oatmeal. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different spices like nutmeg or even a sprinkle of cayenne for a little kick. You could also try using different types of apples to find your perfect flavor balance—Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the delightful crunch and flavor for yourself. Once you’ve made your batch of Cinnamon Apple Chips, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, variations, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the joy of this simple yet satisfying snack together! Print