Are you ready for a snack that’s both tasty and healthy? These Cinnamon Sugar Baked Apple Chips are about to become your favorite craving-buster! With just a few simple ingredients, like crisp apples and sweet spices, you can create a crunchy delight in no time. Follow my easy steps, and enjoy guilt-free snacking that satisfies your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthy Snack Alternative: These baked apple chips are a guilt-free treat, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the added calories of traditional snacks.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of delicious apple chips in no time.
- Customizable Flavor: You can easily tweak the cinnamon sugar mixture to your liking or add other spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist.
- Great for Meal Prep: These chips can be stored for up to a week, making them an excellent option for on-the-go snacking throughout the week.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 large apples (suggestions: Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- A pinch of salt
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
- Mixing bowls
To create these delightful cinnamon sugar baked apple chips, you first need to gather your ingredients. I recommend using three large apples. Honeycrisp and Fuji are both sweet and crisp, making them perfect. You will also need two tablespoons of granulated sugar and one teaspoon of ground cinnamon to enhance the flavor.
Don’t forget the lemon juice! One tablespoon will keep the apples from browning. A pinch of salt adds a nice touch to balance the sweetness.
Next, you will need some simple tools. A baking sheet lined with parchment paper is a must. This keeps the chips from sticking. A sharp knife or a mandoline slicer will help you cut the apples into thin, even slices. Lastly, get a couple of mixing bowls for combining your ingredients.
Once you have everything, you're ready to make these tasty snacks. Each step will bring you closer to enjoying crispy, sweet apple chips!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Apples
- Preheat the oven to 200°F (95°C).
- Wash the apples under cold water. Use a knife or mandoline to slice them thinly. Aim for even slices, about 1/8 inch thick.
Making the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
- In a small bowl, add 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
- Mix in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of salt. Stir well until combined.
Assembling and Baking
- Toss the apple slices with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. This keeps them from turning brown.
- Coat the slices evenly with the cinnamon sugar mix, making sure both sides are covered.
- Place the apple slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Avoid overlapping them.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 2-3 hours. Flip the slices halfway through to ensure they cook evenly.
- Once they are crisp and dry, take them out of the oven. Let them cool completely. The chips will become even crisper as they cool.
- Store your apple chips in an airtight container. They will stay fresh at room temperature for up to a week.
Enjoy making these crispy cinnamon sugar baked apple chips. You’ll love how easy they are!
Tips & Tricks
Preparing Perfectly Crisp Apple Chips
To make the best apple chips, slice the apples evenly. Aim for about 1/8 inch thick. This helps them cook at the same rate. A sharp knife or mandoline slicer works best for this. Flip the apple slices halfway through baking. This step ensures both sides get crisp. It’s a simple trick that makes a big difference.
Storage Tips
To keep your apple chips fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture out. A glass jar or a plastic container works well. Place the container in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight to help the chips stay crispy. They can last for up to a week this way. Enjoy your healthy snack!
Pro Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: Opt for sweet and crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best flavor and texture in your chips.
- Uniform Slices: Use a mandoline slicer for even thickness, which ensures that all slices bake at the same rate for perfectly crispy chips.
- Watch the Oven: Baking times can vary based on your oven and the thickness of the slices, so keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or allspice, or add a touch of vanilla extract to the lemon juice for a unique twist.
Variations
Flavor Combinations
You can easily switch up the flavor of your apple chips. Adding nutmeg or allspice gives a warm spice. Just a pinch of either can change the taste. Mix it into the cinnamon sugar for a fun twist. You can also try different sweeteners. For a natural touch, use honey or maple syrup. These options bring unique flavors and add a different sweetness.
Dietary Modifications
If you want sugar-free apple chips, use a sugar substitute. There are many options like stevia or erythritol. They work well without adding calories. For those avoiding gluten, you are in luck! This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your sweetener is also gluten-free. Enjoy your tasty snack without any worries!
Nutritional Information
Caloric Content
Each serving of these baked apple chips has about 120 calories. This breakdown includes:
- Apples: 90 calories
- Sugar: 30 calories
These chips are a great choice for a snack. They fill you up without adding too many calories.
Health Benefits
Apples are full of vitamins and fiber. They help keep you healthy in many ways:
- Rich in fiber: Helps digestion and keeps you full.
- Low in calories: Perfect for a light snack.
- High in antioxidants: Good for heart health.
Eating these apple chips gives you a tasty, low-calorie option. You can enjoy them guilt-free!
FAQs
How long do baked apple chips last?
Baked apple chips last up to a week. Store them in an airtight container. Keep the chips at room temperature. Avoid moisture to keep them crisp.
Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, you can use different apples. I recommend Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith. Each type offers a unique flavor. Sweet apples work well for a tasty treat. Tart apples add a fun twist.
How can I make spicier apple chips?
To add spice, try cayenne pepper or chili powder. Mix these with the cinnamon sugar. Start with a small amount, then adjust to your taste. You can also add a dash of ground ginger for extra warmth.
You now know how to make delicious apple chips. We covered the main ingredients, tools you need, and step-by-step baking instructions. I shared tips for crispness and storage, plus ways to mix flavors and adjust for diets. With the health benefits of apples, you have a tasty snack that's easy to make. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe and delight in your homemade apple chips. Try different apples and spices to find your favorite flavor!
