Crunchy, naturally sweet, and delightfully satisfying, these baked apple chips are the perfect healthy snack for any time of day.
Packed with fiber and low in calories, they help support digestion and curb cravings without added sugar.
Quick to prepare and oven-baked to perfection, they’re an easy, plant-based treat that’s ideal for everyday snacking or meal prep.
Crispy Baked Apple Chips
Equipment
- 2 large baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Mandoline slicer
Ingredients
- 3 large apples Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°F (90°C). This low and slow temperature is key to drying the apples evenly without burning, allowing them to crisp beautifully. While the oven warms, line two large baking sheets with either parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.This prevents the apples from sticking and ensures even airflow around each slice.
- Wash and Select Apples: Choose fresh, firm apples such as Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala for the best flavor and natural sweetness. Wash them thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or residues. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture, which helps them crisp in the oven.
- Slice the Apples Thinly: Using a mandoline slicer, carefully slice each apple into thin rounds about 1/8-inch thick. Precision is important—thinner slices will turn crispier, while thicker slices may remain soft or chewy. Remove the seeds and the tough core from each slice to ensure every bite is smooth and edible.
- Arrange Slices on Baking Sheets: Place the apple slices on the prepared baking sheets in a single layer, making sure they are not overlapping. Overlapping slices will steam rather than crisp. Spread them out evenly so the heat can circulate and dehydrate the apples properly.
- Sprinkle with Cinnamon: Evenly sprinkle 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon over the apple slices, flipping each slice to coat both sides lightly. Cinnamon adds a warm, comforting flavor and enhances the natural sweetness of the apples without extra sugar.
- Bake the Apple Chips: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour, then carefully flip each apple slice over to ensure both sides bake evenly. Return the sheets to the oven and bake for another hour, keeping the oven door closed as much as possible to maintain consistent temperature.
- Cool to Crisp: After baking, turn the oven off and let the apple slices cool inside for about 30 minutes. This step allows the residual heat to finish crisping the slices gradually. If some slices are still soft, continue baking in 15-minute increments, checking frequently, until they reach your preferred crunchiness.
- Serve or Store: Once the apple chips are fully crisp, remove them from the baking sheets and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Enjoy them immediately as a healthy snack, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They are perfect for on-the-go snacking, lunchboxes, or meal prep.
- Optional Serving Tips: For a creative twist, sprinkle a tiny pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice for seasonal flavors. These apple chips pair wonderfully with nut butters, yogurt, or a hot cup of tea.
Notes
- Use firm, crisp apple varieties like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala for the best texture and natural sweetness.
- Slice apples very thinly (around 1/8 inch) to ensure they become crispy rather than chewy.
- Mandoline slicers work best for uniform slices, but a sharp knife can also be used with care.
- Sprinkle cinnamon lightly for flavor; you can experiment with nutmeg, pumpkin spice, or ginger for variety.
- Baking time may vary depending on oven type and apple thickness; monitor crispness closely.
- Let the apples cool completely in the oven for a better crunch.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain crispness; avoid humid areas.
Chef’s Secrets For Perfect Apple Chips
The key to perfectly crispy apple chips lies in precision and patience.
Always choose firm, high-sugar apples because softer varieties may turn mushy instead of crisping.
Uniform thin slices ensure even dehydration, which is why a mandoline slicer is highly recommended.
Sprinkling cinnamon or other warm spices before baking enhances flavor naturally, and cooling the chips slowly in the oven allows residual heat to remove excess moisture.
Avoid overcrowding the tray, as proper airflow is crucial for even baking.
Serving Suggestions To Elevate Snacks
These apple chips are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways.
Serve them as a standalone snack for a guilt-free treat, or pair with nut butters, yogurt, or oatmeal for a satisfying breakfast or afternoon snack.
For a fun twist, crumble them over salads or granola to add natural sweetness and crunch.
They also make a perfect addition to charcuterie boards or festive platters, providing a healthy balance alongside cheese and nuts.
Storage Tips For Maximum Freshness
To maintain crispness, store apple chips in a completely cooled airtight container at room temperature.
Avoid moisture, as humidity can make them soft. If chips begin to lose crunch, briefly re-bake in a low oven for 5–10 minutes to restore texture.
For long-term storage, they can also be kept in a sealed zip-top bag with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
Avoid refrigeration, which can introduce humidity and reduce crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other apple varieties?
Yes! While Fuji, Honeycrisp, and Gala are ideal for sweetness and crispness, Granny Smith apples work too. They produce a slightly tart flavor and may need a touch of extra cinnamon for sweetness.
2. How thin should the apple slices be?
Aim for slices about 1/8-inch thick. Thinner slices will crisp faster, while thicker slices may remain soft. Uniformity is key, so a mandoline is highly recommended.
3. Do I need to peel the apples?
No, peeling is optional. Leaving the skin on adds extra fiber, nutrients, and a rustic look. Just ensure slices are thin enough for even crisping.
4. How do I know when apple chips are done?
The edges should lift slightly and feel dry to the touch. They will continue to crisp as they cool in the oven. If still soft, bake in 15-minute increments until desired texture is achieved.
5. Can I make these apple chips ahead of time?
Absolutely! They store well in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature. For longer storage, keep them in a cool, dry place and re-crisp in the oven if needed.
