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Jessica T. Brown

Crunchy Apple Chips

Enjoy crunchy, naturally sweet Cinnamon Apple Chips seasoned with a touch of cinnamon and sugar.
This simple, low-fat snack is fiber-rich, easy to prepare, and perfect for healthy snacking or meal prep
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 10 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Snack
Cuisine: American, Fall-inspired
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 –5 small apples
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons sugar any type

Equipment

  • 1 Mandoline slicer
  • 2 Baking Sheets
  • 1 Parchment paper or silicone mats
  • 1 Medium mixing bowl
  • Oven thermometer (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets:Set your oven to 200°F (93°C) to ensure a low and slow baking process, which is key for crisp, chewy apple chips.
    Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and allow for easy cleanup.
    Make sure the sheets are flat and stable in the oven for even baking.
  2. Core and Slice Apples:Use a corer to remove the apple cores completely, leaving the fruit intact for slicing.
    With a mandoline slicer, cut the apples into uniformly thin slices about 1/8 inch thick; this ensures even drying and consistent crispiness.
    Place slices on a clean surface or plate, checking for any seeds or thick pieces that may need trimming.
  3. Arrange Slices on Baking Sheets:Lay the apple slices on the prepared baking sheets in a single layer, ensuring that none overlap, which could cause uneven cooking.
    Leave a small gap between slices for proper air circulation so that each chip bakes evenly.
    Organize the sheets to fit comfortably in your oven, planning to swap positions midway through baking.
  4. Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture:In a small mixing bowl, combine 2 teaspoons of cinnamon and 2 teaspoons of sugar, stirring until evenly blended.
    Sprinkle the mixture gently and evenly over the apple slices on both baking sheets, coating each slice without letting it clump.
    This layer adds a warm, aromatic flavor that caramelizes slightly during baking.
  5. Bake Apple Chips Slowly: Place one baking sheet on the top rack and one on the lower rack of the oven, allowing air to circulate for even cooking.
    Bake for 2½ hours, rotating the sheets halfway through to ensure both racks receive equal heat.
    Keep the oven door closed as much as possible to maintain a steady temperature for slow dehydration.
  6. Finish Drying in Oven:Turn off the oven after the initial baking time, leaving the apple chips inside to continue drying for an additional hour with the door closed.
    This step ensures the chips achieve their ideal crispiness without burning or overcooking.
    Check for slight flexibility in the center before removing them completely.
  7. Cool and Store Chips: Remove the baked apple chips carefully from the sheets and place them on a wire rack or plate to cool completely.
    Once cooled, enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container to maintain crispness.
    These chips can last up to three days at room temperature, a week in the fridge, or several months in the freezer.

Notes

  • Choose firm, crisp apples such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala for best texture and sweetness.
  • Slice apples uniformly with a mandoline to ensure even baking and crispiness.
  • Avoid overlapping slices on the baking sheet to prevent soggy chips.
  • Adjust sugar to taste or use alternatives like coconut sugar for a healthier option.
  • Apple chips can be stored at room temperature for 3 days, in the fridge for up to a week, or frozen for up to 6 months.