Are you ready for a delicious snack that’s both crispy and sweet? Cinnamon sugar apple chips are the perfect treat! With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a healthy snack that’s fun to eat. In this post, I will guide you through the easy steps to bake these tasty chips. Grab your apples, and let’s get started on this delightful recipe!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthy Snack Option: These apple chips are a guilt-free treat, made with fresh apples and minimal added sugar.
- Simple Preparation: With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delicious snack without any hassle.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it's a party, movie night, or a lunchbox addition, these apple chips fit right in.
- Customizable Flavor: You can easily adjust the sweetness or spice level to suit your personal taste preferences.
Ingredients
List of Required Ingredients
- 3 medium-sized apples (suggested varieties: Fuji or Honeycrisp)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
To make cinnamon sugar apple chips, you need fresh ingredients. Start with three medium-sized apples. Fuji and Honeycrisp are great choices. They are crisp and sweet, which makes them perfect for this snack.
Next, grab two tablespoons of granulated sugar. This adds sweetness to the chips. You'll also need one teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Cinnamon gives a warm and cozy flavor to the apple chips.
A pinch of salt is important too. It enhances the sweet and spicy flavors. If you want to keep the apples from browning, lemon juice is optional. Just one tablespoon will do the trick.
Gather these ingredients, and you're ready to create a tasty treat. The combination of crisp apples, sweet sugar, and warm cinnamon makes a delightful snack that you can enjoy anytime.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheets
First, I preheat my oven to 200°F (93°C). This low temperature helps the apples dry out slowly. Next, I line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This makes for easy cleanup and keeps the apple chips from sticking.
Preparing the Apples
Now, I wash the apples under cool water. I then core them to remove the seeds. Using a mandoline or a sharp knife, I slice the apples into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. Thin slices help them crisp up nicely during baking.
Combining Ingredients and Baking
To prevent browning, I toss the apple slices in lemon juice. This step is optional but recommended. In a small bowl, I mix the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. After that, I arrange the apple slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets, making sure not to overlap them.
I sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the apple slices. Then, I bake them in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours. I flip the slices halfway through to ensure even cooking. Once they are completely dry and crisp, I take them out and let them cool on the baking sheets. They will get even crispier as they cool. I store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week, but they rarely last that long!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Crispiness
To get the best apple chips, slice your apples evenly. Aim for about 1/8 inch thick. This size helps them cook evenly. If some slices are thick, they will stay soft while others get crisp. Halfway through baking, flip the slices over. This step ensures both sides become golden and crunchy.
Preventing Browning
When you cut apples, they can turn brown fast. To stop this, use lemon juice. Just toss the slices in lemon juice until they are coated. This keeps the apples looking fresh and bright. The juice adds a slight tang, which enhances the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
For a great presentation, serve your apple chips in a fun bowl or on a wooden platter. People love a nice display! Add a sprinkle of extra cinnamon sugar on top for a special touch. You could also pair them with a dip, like yogurt or cream cheese, for added flavor. Enjoy your crispy snack!
Pro Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: Opt for sweet and crisp varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
- Uniform Slicing: Use a mandoline for evenly sliced apples, which ensures consistent baking and crispness.
- Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on the apple chips towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning.
- Store Properly: Make sure the chips are completely cool before storing them in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness.
Variations
Flavor Add-Ins
You can spice up your apple chips with fun flavors. Try adding a bit of nutmeg or ginger to the cinnamon sugar mix. Nutmeg gives a warm, sweet taste, while ginger adds a little zing. Both spices work well with apples. Just mix a pinch of your chosen spice into the cinnamon sugar. This small change will make your chips even more special.
Different Apple Varieties
Not all apples taste the same. Each type brings its own flavor and texture. For example, Fuji apples are sweet and crisp. Honeycrisp apples are juicy and have a nice crunch. If you use tart apples like Granny Smith, your chips will have a tangy kick. Experiment with different apples to find your favorite flavor.
Alternative Sweeteners
You can switch up the sweetener for your apple chips. Instead of granulated sugar, try honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar. Honey gives a rich sweetness, while maple syrup adds a unique flavor. Coconut sugar has a hint of caramel that works well too. Just remember to adjust the amount, as some sweeteners are sweeter than sugar.
Storage Info
Proper Storage Methods
To keep your cinnamon sugar apple chips fresh, store them in a cool, dry place. Make sure they are completely cool before you pack them away. If you live in a humid area, use a dehumidifier or air-conditioned space. This helps keep moisture away from your crispy snacks.
Shelf Life
These apple chips can last up to one week if stored correctly. Look for signs of spoilage, like softness or a change in color. If they feel chewy or have a stale smell, it's time to toss them out. Freshness matters for the best taste.
Using Airtight Containers
Choose airtight containers to keep your apple chips crispy. Glass jars or plastic containers with tight lids work well. Avoid containers that let air in. This helps keep your apple chips crunchy and tasty for longer. Store them away from sunlight to maintain their quality.
FAQs
How long do cinnamon sugar apple chips last?
Cinnamon sugar apple chips last about one week. Store them in an airtight container. Keep them in a cool, dry place. This helps them stay crisp. If you see any signs of moisture, toss them out.
Can I make these apple chips in a dehydrator?
Yes, you can use a dehydrator! Slice the apples as before. Set your dehydrator to 135°F (57°C). Arrange the apple slices on the trays. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mix over them. Dehydrate for 6 to 8 hours. Check for crispness. They should snap when you break them.
Are homemade apple chips healthy?
Yes, homemade apple chips are healthy! They have no added preservatives. You control the sugar and spices. Apples are full of fiber and vitamins. This makes them a great snack choice. Store-bought chips often have extra sugar and salt. Homemade versions are a better choice for you and your family.
Making cinnamon sugar apple chips is simple and fun. You learned which apples work best and how to slice them. I shared steps to bake them perfectly and tips to keep them crisp.
Using lemon juice helps prevent browning, while variations allow for personal flavor twists. Storing your apple chips properly keeps them fresh longer. Enjoy your homemade snack! It's a tasty treat that's easy to customize to your liking.
