Baked apple chips are a tasty and crunchy snack that’s super easy to make. Slicing apples thin and baking them gives you a yummy treat without all the sugar!
They make a perfect snack for kids and adults alike. I love munching on these while watching a movie. You can even sprinkle some cinnamon for extra flavor—so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Choose firm apples like Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith. If you want a sweeter option, go for Gala. For a more tart flavor, choose Granny Smith. You can also substitute with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Braeburn based on what you like!
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds a warm flavor. If you prefer a twist, try mixing in a bit of nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for added depth. Sometimes, I even use apple pie spice for a more festive touch.
Sugar: The sugar is optional but balances the cinnamon flavor. If you want a healthier option, skip the sugar altogether or use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but be aware that this will change the texture slightly.
What’s the Best Way to Slice Apples for Chips?
Slicing apples evenly is important to ensure they bake at the same rate. Using a mandoline slicer makes this job easier, giving you consistent thin slices. If you don’t have one, a sharp knife works too; just take your time to get even cuts.
- Start by washing and drying your apples thoroughly.
- Core them if you’d like, or slice them into rings and remove seeds afterward.
- Slice them about 1/8 inch thick to achieve that perfect crispness.
After slicing, arrange the apple slices in a single layer on your baking sheet. This helps them cook evenly, avoiding any sogginess. Happy baking!
How to Make Baked Apple Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Chips:
- 3 large apples (such as Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: 1 tablespoon granulated sugar or brown sugar (for extra sweetness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep, followed by a baking time of 2 to 2.5 hours. There’s no need for any complicated steps, just set your oven, slice your apples, and let them bake until they’re crispy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 200°F (93°C). While it’s heating up, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone mats—this will help the apple slices not stick.
2. Slice the Apples:
Next, wash and dry your apples. Then, using a sharp knife or a mandoline, slice the apples very thin—about 1/8 inch thick. You can either core them first or cut whole rounds and remove the seeds afterward. Just make sure they are all similar in thickness for even baking!
3. Arrange the Slices:
Put the apple slices on the lined baking sheets in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. This is key for achieving that satisfying crispness!
4. Sprinkle with Cinnamon and Sugar:
In a small bowl, mix together the ground cinnamon and granulated sugar if you are using it. Lightly sprinkle this mixture over both sides of the apple slices.
5. Bake the Apple Chips:
Place the baking sheets in the oven and let them bake for 1 hour. Once that hour is up, flip the apple slices over and bake for another 1 to 1.5 hours. Keep a close eye on them as they bake to prevent burning, especially as they get close to being done.
6. Cool and Enjoy:
When the apple chips are done baking, take them out of the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheets. This helps them become even crispier! After they’ve cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
And there you have it! Enjoy your homemade baked apple chips as a tasty and crunchy snack anytime!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Fuji, Gala, and Granny Smith are great choices, you can experiment with any firm apple variety. Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or even Jonagold can offer unique flavors, so feel free to mix and match!
How Do I Know When the Apple Chips Are Done?
The apple chips should be dry and crisp when finished. They might still feel a little soft when first removed, but they’ll crisp up as they cool. If they feel chewy or bend easily, give them a bit more time in the oven.
Can I Make These in a Dehydrator?
Yes, you can! Simply arrange the apple slices in a single layer on dehydrator trays and set it to around 130°F (54°C). It will usually take about 6-8 hours, but check occasionally for your desired crispness.
How Should I Store the Leftover Apple Chips?
Store any leftover apple chips in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for about a week. If they start to lose their crunch, you can pop them back in the oven for a few minutes to re-crisp them!
