Cinnamon Apple Chips Snack

Few things make my kitchen smell as comforting as these cinnamon apple chips gently crisping in the oven. With just apples, a sprinkle of sugar, and a generous dusting of cinnamon, this snack takes hardly any effort but offers so much flavor. When I want a healthy bite for after school or to take on a hike, these are always a hit with my family.

My first try at these was out of apple overload in September but now they are a cozy year round treat. I love knowing exactly what is in every crisp bite.

Ingredients

• McIntosh apples: sliced thin for the best balance of tart and sweet plus they bake to a tender yet snappy finish
• Ground cinnamon: adds warming spice and deep aroma use a fresh jar for the boldest flavor
• Granulated sugar: optional for a hint of sweetness especially if your apples are on the tart side choose fine grind for easy coating
• Cooking spray: helps prevent the chips from sticking and makes cleanup quick use a quality oil based spray for even coverage

Step-by-Step Instructions

Slice the Apples:

Core the apples first to remove seeds then slice as evenly as possible about one eighth to one fourth inch thick. Consistent slices mean all the chips bake at the same rate and stay uniformly crisp or chewy.

Coat with Cinnamon and Sugar:

Place the sliced apples into a large bowl. Sprinkle them with cinnamon and sugar then toss gently with your hands till every slice looks evenly dusted. Taking time to toss ensures that classic cinnamon swirl on every chip.

Arrange on Baking Sheet:

Coat your baking sheets lightly with cooking spray or line with parchment paper for easy release. Arrange apple slices in a single layer so none overlap. If needed use two trays for best results. Overlapping makes chips soggy instead of crisp.

Bake Low and Slow:

Bake in an oven set to 200 degrees fahrenheit. Let the apples bake for two to three hours checking after two. Chips are ready when they look dry at the edges but still feel a bit soft in the center. Low heat dries the fruit gently and prevents burning.

Cool and Store:

Let chips cool completely on the pan. This final air drying step is important for crunch and prevents the chips from steaming inside a container. Once cool store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days.

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My favorite part is using apples picked at a local orchard each fall and watching my kids sneak a few before they are even cooled. There is always a little battle for the crispiest ones.

Storage Tips

Let the apple chips cool completely before storing or they will get sticky from trapped steam. Use a glass container or a ziptop bag and keep at room temperature. If they lose crunch just pop them back in a low oven for five minutes to refresh.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try using Fuji or Honeycrisp apples if you want an even sweeter chip though I return to McIntosh for their juciness and tart pop. You can skip sugar if you prefer or use coconut sugar for a subtle twist. Pumpkin spice can replace cinnamon for a fall inspired batch.

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Serving Suggestions

Pack these in school lunches or offer alongside cheese and nuts for a simple snack tray. Crush a handful over oatmeal in the morning for natural sweetness and crunch. My family likes to dip them in peanut butter for an extra treat on car rides.

Cultural Context

Homemade apple chips borrow from the long tradition of fruit drying as a way to preserve the harvest. Families have been drying apples in slices for generations as a winter snack or to use up extras during apple season. Adding cinnamon nods to cozy American fall flavors and holiday desserts.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of apples work best?

McIntosh apples are recommended for their balance of sweetness and tartness, but Fuji or Honeycrisp also work well.

→ How thin should I slice the apples?

Slice apples ⅛ to ¼ inch thick for best results; uniform slices ensure even baking and crispness.

→ Can I make these chips without added sugar?

Absolutely. Omit the sugar for a naturally sweet snack, letting the apples and cinnamon shine on their own.

→ How do I keep the apple chips crisp?

Allow them to cool fully before storing in an airtight container. Avoid overlapping chips if possible.

→ Is it necessary to peel the apples?

No, the skin adds texture and nutrients, but feel free to peel if preferred for a smoother chip.