Crunchy, naturally sweet, and completely guilt-free, these Baked Apple Chips are a delicious snack that anyone can enjoy.
Packed with fiber and low in saturated fat, they support healthy digestion and satisfy sweet cravings without added preservatives.
Quick, easy, and perfect for meal prep, these oven-baked apple slices make a wholesome snack for everyday enjoyment.
Delicious Baked Apple Chips
Equipment
- 1 Baking sheet
- 1 Medium bowl
- 1 Knife set
- 1 Small Whisk
- Measuring Spoons
- Measuring cups
Ingredients
- 2 medium firm apples
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat Oven for Crispiness: Begin by setting your oven to 225°F (107°C). This low and slow temperature is essential for drying out the apple slices without burning them, ensuring they become perfectly crisp while retaining their natural sweetness. While the oven heats, prepare the baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Apples for Slicing: Wash your apples thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or residues. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Choose firm apple varieties like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala for the best results—soft apples like Red Delicious or McIntosh will not crisp properly. Decide whether you want to leave the core in for a decorative round shape or remove it for a fully open ring.
- Slice Apples Thinly: Using a sharp chef’s knife or a mandoline slicer, cut the apples into very thin rings, ideally about 1/8 inch thick. Thin slices are crucial because they allow the moisture to evaporate evenly during baking, producing crispy chips instead of chewy pieces. Take your time to slice consistently to ensure even cooking.
- Arrange Apple Slices on Sheet: Lay the apple slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the slices do not overlap, as this will trap moisture and prevent crisping. If needed, use a second baking sheet for extra slices. This careful arrangement ensures that each chip bakes evenly and comes out beautifully golden.
- Mix the Sweet Spice Coating: In a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir well using a small whisk to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. This aromatic mixture enhances the natural flavor of the apples and adds a subtle, warm sweetness that complements the crisp texture.
- Sprinkle Spice Blend on Apples: Evenly sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture over each apple slice. Use your fingers or a small spoon to distribute it gently, making sure each slice gets a light coating. This step ensures that every chip has a balanced flavor without overpowering the apple’s natural taste.
- Bake Slowly for Crunchy Texture: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake the apple slices slowly for 1½ to 2 hours. Check them periodically after the first hour. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, the type of apple, and the thickness of your slices. They are done when the edges are golden brown, and the slices are crisp to the touch.
- Rotate for Even Baking (Optional): If your oven has hot spots, consider rotating the baking sheet halfway through the cooking time. This ensures that all apple slices receive equal heat and crisp uniformly. Avoid opening the oven too frequently, as this can lower the temperature and extend baking time.
- Cool Completely for Maximum Crispiness: Once baked, remove the apple chips from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for at least 10–15 minutes. During cooling, they will firm up further, reaching the perfect crunchy texture. Transfer them carefully to a cooling rack if desired, to allow air circulation around each chip.
- Serve or Store: Enjoy the apple chips immediately as a snack, or allow them to cool completely and store in an airtight container. Properly stored, they can last for several days without losing their crispiness. These chips are also excellent for topping oatmeal, yogurt, or salads for a sweet, crunchy addition.
Notes
- Use firm, crisp apple varieties like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala for optimal texture.
- Slice apples very thin (around 1/8 inch) for maximum crispiness; thicker slices may remain chewy.
- Keep apple slices in a single layer on the baking sheet to prevent steaming.
- Adjust spices according to taste—try adding a dash of ginger, allspice, or cardamom for variety.
- Cool chips completely before storing to maintain crunchiness.
- These chips are naturally vegan, low in saturated fat, and fiber-rich, making them a healthy snack option.
Chef’s Secrets: Mastering Perfect Apple Chips
To achieve consistently crispy apple chips, focus on three key factors: slicing, baking temperature, and moisture management.
Always slice apples uniformly thin; a mandoline slicer is ideal for this. Baking at a low temperature (225°F / 107°C) allows moisture to slowly evaporate without burning the edges.
Avoid overlapping slices, as trapped steam prevents crisping.
For added flavor, lightly toss slices in a sugar-spice blend before baking.
Finally, patience is essential—allow the chips to cool completely, as they continue to firm up once out of the oven.
Serving Suggestions: Crunchy Ideas For Snacking
Baked Apple Chips are incredibly versatile.
Enjoy them straight from the oven as a guilt-free snack, or crush them over oatmeal, yogurt, or smoothie bowls for added texture and sweetness.
They also make a delightful topping for salads, pairing beautifully with nuts, leafy greens, or soft cheeses.
For a playful twist, dip a few chips in almond butter or dark chocolate for a satisfying, protein-enhanced treat.
Storage Tips: Keeping Chips Crispy Longer
To preserve the crispiness of your apple chips, store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
Avoid refrigerating, as moisture can make them soft or chewy.
If you live in a humid climate, include a small food-safe silica packet or a paper towel inside the container to absorb excess moisture.
Properly stored, the chips will remain crunchy for up to a week.
For longer storage, consider freezing fully cooled chips in a sealed bag, then re-crisping them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use soft apples for baking?
Soft apples like Red Delicious or McIntosh are not ideal, as they contain higher water content and will produce chewy, rather than crispy, chips.
Firm apples such as Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala are recommended for the best results.
2. Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling is optional. Keeping the peel on enhances flavor, adds fiber, and contributes to the crisp texture. It also provides a beautiful, natural color contrast for the chips.
3. How thin should the apple slices be?
Aim for slices about 1/8 inch thick. Thinner slices will bake evenly and become perfectly crisp. Thicker slices may remain chewy and take longer to dry.
4. Can I make these apple chips ahead of time?
Yes! Once baked and fully cooled, apple chips can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Avoid refrigeration, as it introduces moisture that softens the chips.
5. Can I add different flavors to the chips?
Absolutely! Experiment with cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, or even a hint of cayenne for a spicy kick.
You can also try dusting with cocoa powder, coconut sugar, or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
