Crispy Cinnamon Apple Chips Recipe Easy Baked Homemade Snack

Let me tell you, the smell of warm cinnamon mingling with the sweet crispness of apples baking slowly in the oven is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. The first time I baked these crispy cinnamon apple chips, it was a rainy afternoon, perfect for cozying up inside. I was instantly hooked—the kind of moment where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special. When I was knee-high to a grasshopper, my grandma used to make apple pies that filled the whole house with that magical scent, but these chips? They’re like that nostalgia in a crunchy, snackable form.

Honestly, my family couldn’t stop sneaking them off the cooling rack (and I can’t really blame them). These chips are dangerously easy to make but taste like you spent hours perfecting them. You know what’s great? They’re perfect for potlucks, sweet treats for your kids, or even brightening up your Pinterest cookie board with something a little different. After testing this recipe a handful of times (in the name of research, of course), it became a staple for family gatherings and gifting. It feels like a warm hug in snack form, and you’re going to want to bookmark this one.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

From my kitchen to yours, this crispy cinnamon apple chips recipe is a keeper for many reasons. I’ve tweaked and tested it multiple times, and here’s what makes it stand out:

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in under an hour, perfect for busy evenings or last-minute cravings.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery trips needed; you likely already have everything in your kitchen.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for after-school snacks, holiday treats, or crunchy additions to your lunchbox.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Always gets rave reviews from kids and adults alike—everyone loves that perfect cinnamon crunch.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The texture and flavor combo is next-level comfort food, with a sweet-spicy kick.

What makes this recipe different? Well, instead of frying or buying pre-packaged chips, baking thinly sliced apples with just the right sprinkle of cinnamon creates chips that are naturally sweet and satisfyingly crispy. It’s not just another snack; it’s the best version you’ll find. The technique of slicing the apples paper-thin and baking at a low temperature slowly dries them out without burning—trust me, it’s a game-changer. This recipe isn’t just good—it’s the kind of snack that makes you close your eyes after the first bite. Perfect for impressing guests without stress or turning a simple afternoon into something memorable.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most are pantry staples, making this an easy go-to anytime you want a naturally sweet, crunchy treat.

• Apples – 3 medium-sized (about 1 pound / 450 grams). I recommend Fuji or Honeycrisp for the best balance of sweetness and firmness.
• Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (adds warmth and that classic spice flavor).
• Sugar – 1 tablespoon granulated sugar or brown sugar (optional, for a hint of extra sweetness).
• Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (helps prevent browning and adds a subtle tang).
• Optional spices – pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger for a little twist.

For those looking to customize, you can swap out sugar for coconut sugar or omit it altogether for a more natural sweetness. If you want a gluten-free or vegan snack, this recipe fits perfectly since it’s naturally free of both. When picking your apples, firmer varieties dry into crispier chips, while softer apples might turn out chewier, which is a nice alternative texture if you prefer a little chew.

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheets: At least two large, rimmed baking sheets to spread out the apple slices in a single layer.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: Essential to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
• Mandoline slicer or sharp knife: For slicing apples paper-thin (about 1/8 inch or 3 mm). I swear by a mandoline for even slices, but a steady hand with a knife works too.
• Mixing bowl: To toss apple slices with lemon juice and cinnamon.
• Cooling rack: Optional but helpful to cool chips evenly and stay crisp.

If you don’t have a mandoline, just take your time slicing with a sharp knife—thinner slices are the secret to crispy apple chips. Also, investing in silicone mats can save you money on parchment paper and are reusable, which is a win for the environment and your wallet. Keep your baking sheets clean and dry between batches to avoid soggy chips.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C). This low temperature is crucial for drying out the apple slices slowly without burning them.
2. Wash and dry the apples thoroughly. Remove any stickers or wax coating if present.
3. Core the apples. You can use an apple corer for quick work or carefully cut around the core with a knife.
4. Slice the apples very thinly. Aim for about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thickness using a mandoline or sharp knife. Even thickness ensures even baking.
5. Place the slices in a mixing bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon lemon juice and toss gently to coat all slices. This stops browning and adds brightness.
6. Sprinkle cinnamon and sugar (if using) over the slices. Toss again so each slice gets a light dusting.
7. Arrange the slices in a single layer on parchment-lined baking sheets. Make sure slices don’t overlap; air circulation is key to crispiness.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. Then flip each slice gently and bake for another 1 to 1.5 hours, or until slices are crisp and dry.
9. Keep an eye on the chips after the first hour. Depending on your oven and apple thickness, baking time can vary. Chips should be dry and crisp but not browned or burnt.
10. Remove from oven and transfer chips to a cooling rack. Let cool completely; they will crisp up further as they cool.
11. Store cooled apple chips in an airtight container. They keep for about a week if stored properly.

If you notice any slices still a little soft after cooling, pop them back in the oven for 10-15 minutes. This method requires patience but rewards you with perfectly crunchy chips. I find flipping halfway through baking is essential to get both sides evenly crisp. Also, don’t skip using parchment or silicone mats—trust me on this one!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

One trick I learned the hard way is to slice the apples as uniformly thin as possible. Uneven slices mean some chips burn while others stay chewy. Using a mandoline saves tons of time and guarantees consistency, so if you don’t have one, it might be worth picking up.

Also, baking low and slow is the name of the game. Cranking up the heat might seem like a time-saver, but you’ll just end up with burnt edges and mushy centers. Patience pays off with that delicate crunch.

Flipping halfway through baking is another must—otherwise, moisture gets trapped and your chips won’t dry evenly. If you bake multiple trays at once, rotate them top to bottom and front to back for even heat distribution.

Sometimes, depending on apple variety and oven quirks, chips might come out slightly chewy. If you prefer them extra crispy, after baking, leave them in the turned-off oven with the door slightly cracked for 30 minutes to air-dry further. I always test a few chips before removing the whole batch.

Variations & Adaptations

• Spiced Apple Chips: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg, allspice, or ground ginger along with the cinnamon for a warm, spicy twist.
• Maple Cinnamon Chips: Drizzle a teaspoon of pure maple syrup over the apple slices before baking for a hint of natural sweetness and complexity.
• Gluten-Free & Vegan Snack: This recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan, making it a safe bet for those with dietary restrictions.
• Dehydrator Option: If you have a food dehydrator, you can dry the apple slices at 135°F (57°C) for 6–8 hours to achieve similar crispy results.
• Fruit Mix: Try mixing thin slices of pears or peaches with the apples for a seasonal variation—just watch the baking time as some fruits dry faster.

Personally, I once tried adding a sprinkle of chili powder for a smoky, spicy kick—surprisingly addictive! Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices or sweeteners.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your crispy cinnamon apple chips at room temperature for the best crunch. They’re fantastic on their own or paired with a creamy dip like Greek yogurt spiced with honey and cinnamon.

These chips make a lovely garnish for oatmeal bowls, salads, or even ice cream sundaes, adding a little texture and sweetness. For drinks, try them alongside a hot cup of chai tea or spiced apple cider to complement the flavors.

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If chips start to lose their crispness, a quick 5-minute bake at 250°F (120°C) can revive them. Avoid storing in the fridge, which can add moisture and make the chips soggy.

Over time, the flavors mellow and deepen, so if you make a large batch, they can taste even better the next day—though they rarely last that long around here!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

A serving of these crispy cinnamon apple chips (about 1 ounce or 28 grams) packs roughly 70 calories, mostly from natural sugars in the apples. They provide a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants from both the apples and cinnamon.

Using fresh apples means you’re getting a wholesome snack without added preservatives or artificial ingredients. Cinnamon has been linked to blood sugar regulation and anti-inflammatory properties, making this treat a little healthier than your typical store-bought chips.

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, so it fits well into various dietary lifestyles. Just watch the added sugar if you are watching your intake; you can always reduce or skip it.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a snack that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion, these crispy cinnamon apple chips baked to perfection are your new best friend. They hit that sweet spot between healthy and indulgent without any fuss. You can tweak the spices or sweetness to suit your mood, and honestly, they’re a joy to snack on straight from the jar or dressed up on your favorite dishes.

I love this recipe because it brings a little bit of cozy, nostalgic comfort to my busy days, and I hope it does the same for you. Give it a try, share your twists, and don’t be shy to comment below—I’d love to hear how you made these apple chips your own. Happy snacking!

FAQs About Crispy Cinnamon Apple Chips

How thin should I slice the apples for the crispiest chips?

Slice apples about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick. Thin and even slices bake more evenly and crisp up better.

Can I use any type of apple?

Yes! Firmer apples like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith work best for crispness, but softer apples can be used if you prefer a chewier texture.

Do I have to add sugar?

Nope! The apples are naturally sweet, and the cinnamon adds flavor. Sugar is optional if you want a bit more sweetness.

How long do the apple chips last?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they last about one week before they start losing crunch.

Can I make these in a dehydrator instead of an oven?

Absolutely! Dry the slices at 135°F (57°C) for 6-8 hours in a dehydrator for similar results.

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