Crispy, sweet, and bursting with fall flavors, these baked cinnamon apple chips are an absolute treat. They’re super easy to make and a healthy snack alternative you’ll want to munch on all day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Apples: Firm, sweet-tart varieties like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala work best. You can use Granny Smith for a tarter chip.
- Cinnamon: Essential for that classic apple pie flavor. Nutmeg or a pumpkin pie spice blend can also be used.
- Sweetener: Maple syrup adds a nice depth of flavor. Honey or a touch of brown sugar can be substituted.
Ingredients:
- 2 large apples (Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala recommended)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Mandoline slicer (optional, but highly recommended), baking sheets, parchment paper.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Apples
Preheat your oven to 225°F (107°C). Wash and core your apples. You can peel them if you like, but leaving the skin on adds a nice texture and extra nutrients.
2. Slice the Apples Thinly
Using a mandoline slicer set to about 1/16-inch thick, carefully slice the apples into thin rounds. If you don’t have a mandoline, use a very sharp knife to get them as thin as possible. Thinner slices mean crispier chips.
3. Season the Apple Slices
In a large bowl, gently toss the apple slices with maple syrup and cinnamon until evenly coated. Make sure each slice gets a little love!
4. Arrange on Baking Sheets
Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Arrange the apple slices in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. This helps them crisp up properly.
5. Bake Until Crispy
Bake for 1 hour, then flip the apple slices over. Continue baking for another 45-60 minutes, or until the edges are curled and the chips are dry and crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end, as they can burn quickly.
6. Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the apple chips inside with the door slightly ajar for about 15-30 minutes. This allows them to cool slowly and become even crispier.
Storage Instructions:
Store your baked cinnamon apple chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Make sure they are completely cool before storing to prevent them from becoming soggy. If they lose crispness, you can re-crisp them in a low oven for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Do I need a mandoline slicer?
A: A mandoline makes the job much easier and ensures uniform slices, but a very sharp knife can work too.
Q: Can I use other spices?
A: Absolutely! Nutmeg, a pinch of ginger, or even a pre-mixed pumpkin pie spice blend would be delicious.
Q: Why are my apple chips not crispy?
A: They likely need more baking time. Make sure your slices are very thin and that they are baked until completely dry.
Q: Can I use different types of apples?
A: Yes, firm, sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala are best. Granny Smith works if you prefer a tarter chip.
Q: How do I prevent the apple slices from sticking?
A: Using parchment paper and ensuring the slices are in a single layer without overlapping will prevent sticking.
