A Short Story About the Recipe

I still remember the first time I made homemade cinnamon apple chips. It was a cool autumn afternoon, and the sweet smell of apples filled my kitchen. I had just returned from the market with a bag of crisp apples, and instead of baking a traditional pie, I decided to try something lighter. I sliced the apples thinly, sprinkled them with cinnamon, and placed them in the oven. As they slowly baked, my kitchen transformed into a cozy retreat filled with warm spice and fruity sweetness. The first bite was magical—delicate, crunchy, and perfectly balanced between sweet and tart. From that moment on, cinnamon apple chips became a staple snack in my home.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons why cinnamon apple chips are worth making. First, they are naturally sweet, so you don’t need heavy amounts of sugar. The light dusting of cinnamon enhances the apple flavor, creating a wholesome snack that feels indulgent yet healthy. You’ll also love that they are baked until crisp, meaning you get a satisfying crunch without deep frying. Unlike store-bought chips, these are free from unnecessary additives and preservatives.

Another reason to love this recipe is its simplicity. With just two main ingredients—apples and cinnamon—you can create a snack that looks beautiful, tastes wonderful, and feels comforting. They are a perfect choice for anyone looking for a guilt-free treat that still satisfies cravings.

Versatile

Cinnamon apple chips are incredibly versatile. You can pack them into lunchboxes, serve them as an afternoon snack, or even add them to dessert platters for a festive touch. They also pair well with dips like yogurt, caramel sauce, or nut butter. If you enjoy homemade granola, you can crumble them over the top for extra crunch. Whether you enjoy them plain or use them to complement other recipes, they fit into almost any occasion.

Affordable

One of the greatest advantages of making cinnamon apple chips is how budget-friendly they are. Apples are often inexpensive and available throughout the year, especially during the fall season. With just a few apples, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a little time in the oven, you can make a big batch at home. This is a cost-effective way to replace packaged snacks while enjoying a healthier alternative.

Ingredients for the Recipe

• 4 medium apples (choose firm varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp)

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)

How to Prepare Cinnamon Apple Chips

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation

Making cinnamon apple chips is a straightforward process that anyone can follow, even without much baking experience. The steps are simple, but paying attention to the details ensures crisp, flavorful results every time.

Step 1: Select the Apples

Choose firm, fresh apples for the best texture. Varieties such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work especially well because they balance sweetness and tartness. Avoid apples that are overly soft, as they will not crisp up evenly. Wash the apples thoroughly to remove any dirt or wax.

Step 2: Slice the Apples Thinly

Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, cut the apples into very thin, even slices. The ideal thickness is around 1/8 inch. Thin slices are important because they bake more evenly and develop the crisp texture you expect from chips. You may core the apples before slicing, but leaving the core in adds a rustic look with pretty star-shaped centers.

Step 3: Prepare the Seasoning

In a small bowl, mix the ground cinnamon with the granulated sugar if you prefer a sweeter version. If you want to keep the recipe naturally sweet, you can use only cinnamon. This simple spice mixture gives the chips their signature flavor and enhances the natural apple taste.

Step 4: Coat the Apple Slices

Arrange the apple slices in a single layer on two large baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Lightly sprinkle the cinnamon mixture over the slices. Flip each slice and repeat on the other side for an even coating. This ensures that every chip has flavor on both sides.

Step 5: Bake Slowly

Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C). Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake the slices slowly. This low temperature allows the apples to dehydrate gently, preventing burning while creating a crisp texture. Bake for 1 hour, then carefully flip each slice. Return them to the oven for another 45–60 minutes.

Step 6: Check for Crispness

After baking, remove one slice and let it cool for a minute. If it becomes crunchy, the chips are ready. If still slightly soft, return the trays to the oven for another 10–15 minutes. Remember that apple chips continue to crisp as they cool, so avoid overbaking.

Step 7: Cool and Store

Once the chips are done, allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. Store them in an airtight container to maintain their crispness. Properly stored chips can last for about a week, although they usually disappear much sooner.

Quick and Easy

One of the most appealing parts of this recipe is how little effort it requires. Aside from slicing the apples and sprinkling them with cinnamon, the oven does most of the work. While the chips bake, you can use the time to relax, prepare other dishes, or tidy the kitchen. This recipe proves that homemade snacks do not need to be complicated or time-consuming.

Customizable

Another advantage of cinnamon apple chips is how easily you can customize them. If you prefer stronger flavors, add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon. For a more indulgent version, drizzle the chips with a touch of honey before baking. You can even experiment with savory variations by adding a light sprinkle of sea salt. Every batch can be slightly different, giving you the freedom to match the flavors to your mood.

Popular With Many People

Cinnamon apple chips are universally loved because they offer the best of both worlds: sweet flavor and crunchy texture. Children enjoy them as a fun snack, while adults appreciate their natural simplicity. They are also a great alternative to processed chips and candy, making them popular with health-conscious eaters. Whether served at family gatherings, shared with friends, or packed for school and work, they always receive compliments.

Crispy Homemade Apple Chips

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Cinnamon apple chips are a simple and wholesome snack made with thinly sliced apples baked slowly until crisp. Sprinkled with cinnamon and a touch of sugar, they are naturally sweet, crunchy, and perfect for both children and adults.

• Author: Lura Skye
• Prep Time: 15
• Cook Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 medium apples (Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp work best)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, for added sweetness)

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Instructions

1. Wash the apples thoroughly under running water. Pat them dry with a clean towel.
2. Preheat the oven to 225°F (110°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
3. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, slice the apples into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. Remove the seeds if desired, or leave them in for a rustic star-shaped center.
4. In a small bowl, combine the ground cinnamon and sugar if using.
5. Arrange the apple slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets.
6. Sprinkle the cinnamon mixture lightly over the slices. Flip the slices and sprinkle the other side as well.
7. Place the trays in the oven and bake for 1 hour.
8. After 1 hour, carefully flip the slices with tongs and return them to the oven. Bake for another 45–60 minutes.
9. Check one chip for crispness. If it cools crunchy, the batch is ready. If soft, continue baking for an additional 10–15 minutes.
10. Remove the trays from the oven and transfer the apple chips to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely.
11. Store the cooled chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Notes

For naturally sweet chips, omit the sugar and use only cinnamon.

To make them extra flavorful, add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon mixture.

For a savory variation, sprinkle lightly with sea salt before baking.

Chips may continue to crisp as they cool, so avoid overbaking.

FAQs

Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?
Yes, most apples work, but firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala give the best results. Softer apples may not crisp as well and can turn chewy.

Do I need to peel the apples before making chips?
No, peeling is optional. Leaving the skin on adds extra fiber, color, and a rustic look. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can peel them before slicing.

How thin should the apple slices be?
For perfectly crisp chips, slice the apples about 1/8 inch thick. Using a mandoline slicer helps achieve even, consistent slices that bake evenly.

Can I make these chips without sugar?
Yes, absolutely. The recipe works well with only cinnamon, especially if you use naturally sweet apple varieties. The sugar is optional and adds a touch of extra sweetness.

How do I keep the chips crispy after baking?
Make sure the chips cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature. If they soften, you can re-crisp them in the oven for a few minutes.

Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
Yes, air fryers work well for apple chips. Slice the apples thinly, coat them with cinnamon, and cook at 300°F (150°C) for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.