There’s something incredibly satisfying about the simple act of turning fresh, crisp apples into deliciously addictive Cinnamon Apple Chips. One rainy afternoon, I opened my pantry to find just a handful of ingredients staring back at me—apples, cinnamon, and a little sugar. Armed with just those basics, I decided to whip up a snack that would banish my fast-food cravings and bring a wholesome, homemade touch back to my kitchen.
The transformation began as I sliced the McIntosh apples, their sweet aroma mingling with the warm notes of cinnamon filling my home. As they baked and the scent intensified, I couldn’t help but feel my spirits lift. These chips are not only an incredibly easy and healthful alternative to store-bought snacks, but they also make for a fantastic crowd-pleaser at gatherings. So, whether you’re looking for an afternoon treat or a guilt-free snack to share, let me guide you through this heavenly recipe that promises to tickle your taste buds and warm your heart.
Why are Cinnamon Apple Chips so irresistible?
Bold, crunchy goodness: These Cinnamon Apple Chips deliver a satisfying crunch that makes them hard to resist.
Healthy alternative: Made from just apples and spices, they’re a nutritious snack that keeps you away from unhealthy fast food.
Effortless preparation: With minimal ingredients and a straightforward process, whipping up a batch is a breeze.
Versatile enjoyment: Enjoy them as a snack, toss them in salads, or use them as a topping for yogurt—endless possibilities!
Household favorite: Kids and adults alike will love these delightful chips, making them perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying solo.
Cinnamon Apple Chips Ingredients
For the Chips
• McIntosh Apples – A sweet option perfect for making crispy chips.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds a warm and comforting spice flavor.
• Granulated Sugar – Enhances sweetness; feel free to omit for a sugar-free option.
• Cooking Spray – Prevents sticking on the baking sheet for easy removal.
These Cinnamon Apple Chips will soon become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Chips
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Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 200 degrees Fahrenheit. This low temperature will help slowly dehydrate the apples, enhancing their natural sweetness into delightful chips.
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Coat Apples: Slice your fresh McIntosh apples into ⅛ to ¼ inch thick pieces and place them in a large bowl. Now, sprinkle the sliced apples with ground cinnamon and optional granulated sugar, tossing gently to coat each slice evenly.
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Prepare Baking Sheet: Lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. Lay the seasoned apple slices in a single layer on the pan, making sure they don’t overlap. If needed, grab a second pan so they have plenty of space to crisp up!
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Bake to Perfection: Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 2 to 3 hours. These chips are done when they are dry yet still slightly soft. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning; they should look golden and fragrant.
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Cool and Store: Once baked, remove the apple chips from the oven and allow them to cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container where they can stay fresh for up to 4 days.
Optional: Consider drizzling with honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Apple Chips
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Choose the Right Apples: McIntosh apples are ideal for oven-drying, but you can experiment with other varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp for different flavor profiles.
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Uniform Slices: Aim for consistent ⅛ to ¼ inch slices to ensure even baking. Thicker slices will take longer and may not become as crispy.
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Avoid Overlapping: Lay the apple slices flat on the baking sheet without overlapping, as this facilitates better airflow and helps achieve that perfect crunch in your Cinnamon Apple Chips.
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Watch Closely: Baking times can vary significantly! Check on your chips after 2 hours to avoid burning, especially towards the end of the baking process.
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Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of vanilla extract for an extra flavor kick—your own twist on these delightful chips!
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Apple Chips are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! To save time, you can slice and coat the apples with cinnamon and sugar up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the prepared apple slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent browning. When you’re ready to enjoy your homemade chips, lay the apple slices on the baking sheet and pop them in the oven to bake for 2 to 3 hours. This way, you’ll have delicious and healthy snacks ready with minimal effort, satisfying your cravings without the hassle. Enjoy the convenience of having these delightful chips waiting for you!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Apple Chips
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Room Temperature: Store cooled Cinnamon Apple Chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to keep them fresh and crunchy.
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Fridge: If you’d like to extend their freshness slightly, you can store them in the fridge. Just ensure they’re in an airtight container, and consume within a week.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the apple chips in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months, but be sure to defrost them before enjoying.
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Reheating: To restore some crispness, reheat the chips in an oven at 200 degrees Fahrenheit for a few minutes, keeping a close eye on them!
Cinnamon Apple Chips Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these delicious chips to suit your taste!
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Different Apples: Experiment with Fuji or Honeycrisp for distinct flavors; each variety adds its unique sweetness and crunch.
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Spice it Up: Add a dash of nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for an aromatic twist that enhances the warmth of cinnamon.
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Sweet & Salty: Drizzle with caramel sauce after baking, then sprinkle sea salt to create an indulgent sweet-and-salty combo.
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Dairy-Free: Swap sugar for maple syrup to create a more natural sweetness, enriching the flavor without using refined sugar.
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Fruit Medley: Mix in thinly sliced pears or ripe peaches with your apple slices—a delightful way to introduce more fruity goodness!
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Crispy Coating: For extra crunch, toss the apple slices in crushed nuts like walnuts or almonds before baking. They’ll add a nutty, satisfying texture.
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Zesty Citrus: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the apple slices before baking to zest up the flavor and prevent browning.
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Heavenly Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon mix for those who crave a surprising hint of spice alongside the sweetness.
With these variations in mind, your Cinnamon Apple Chips journey is just beginning!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Apple Chips?
Nothing complements the comforting crunch of these delightful chips quite like a feast of warm flavors and textures.
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Creamy Yogurt: A rich and creamy yogurt dip adds a refreshing contrast, perfect for balancing the sweetness of the chips.
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Cheese Platter: The savory richness of cheeses like sharp cheddar or brie creates an enticing flavor contrast, enhancing your snacking experience.
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Nutty Granola: Sprinkling these chips over nutty granola introduces a delightful crunch and boosts the health factor, making for a satisfying breakfast or snack.
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Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts bring a savory element, pairing wonderfully with the sweetness of the cinnamon, creating a balanced palate.
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Chai Latte: A warm chai latte with fragrant spices complements the flavors beautifully. Its creamy texture pairs perfectly with the crunchiness of the chips.
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Dark Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle some melted dark chocolate over your apple chips for a decadent twist. The richness of chocolate enhances the sweetness while adding an indulgent touch.
Let your creativity shine as you explore these pairing ideas, elevating your cinnamon apple chips from a simple snack to a crowd-pleasing treat!
Cinnamon Apple Chips Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best apples for my Cinnamon Apple Chips?
For making delicious Cinnamon Apple Chips, McIntosh apples are a fantastic choice due to their sweetness and ability to crisp up nicely. You can also experiment with other varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp for different levels of sweetness and flavor—each will give you a unique twist!
How should I store my Cinnamon Apple Chips?
After baking and cooling your Cinnamon Apple Chips, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their delightful crunch. If you prefer to keep them fresh longer, you can place them in the fridge in a similar container, where they will stay fresh for up to a week.
Can I freeze my Cinnamon Apple Chips?
Absolutely! For longer shelf life, freeze your Cinnamon Apple Chips in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw and reheat in an oven at 200 degrees Fahrenheit for a few minutes to bring back some of that crunch.
What should I do if my apple chips are not crispy enough?
If your apple chips are coming out a bit soft, it might be due to thicker slices or not enough baking time. I recommend checking your chips after the 2-hour mark. If they are still soft, give them another 30 minutes to an hour. Ensure they are sliced uniformly between ⅛ to ¼ inch thick for even baking and crispness!
Can I make these Cinnamon Apple Chips if someone in my family has allergies?
Certainly! The base recipe contains just apples and optional cinnamon and sugar, making it naturally free from nuts, dairy, and gluten. However, if you’re preparing these for someone with allergies, make sure to check that your spices and cooking spray are certified allergen-free to keep it safe for everyone.
How can I prevent my apple slices from browning before baking?
To prevent browning, you can soak your apple slices in a mixture of water and lemon juice (1 tablespoon of lemon juice per cup of water) for about 5 minutes before coating them with cinnamon. This simple step not only helps keep your slices looking fresh but also adds a nice tartness that complements the sweetness of the apples!
Cinnamon Apple Chips: Homemade Crunchy Goodness Awaits!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Slice the apples into ⅛ to ¼ inch thick pieces and toss with ground cinnamon and sugar.
- Lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray and lay the seasoned apple slices in a single layer.
- Bake for 2 to 3 hours until dry yet slightly soft, checking to avoid burning.
- Allow to cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.