Looking for a tasty snack that’s easy to make? Cinnamon sugar apple chips are a crunchy delight that combines sweet and spicy flavors in every bite. With simple ingredients like fresh apples, cinnamon, and sugar, you can whip up a healthy treat in no time. Join me as I guide you through the fun and easy steps to create your own batch of these irresistible snacks!
Ingredients
Apples
You need 2 large apples for this recipe. Fuji or Honeycrisp apples work best. They taste sweet and crisp. Wash them well before use. Core the apples and slice them thinly. Aim for slices about 1/8 inch thick. Thin slices help them bake evenly and become crunchy.
Cinnamon and Sugar
You will need 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This mix gives the chips a sweet and spicy flavor. Combine the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the taste. This mixture will coat the apple slices nicely.
Additional Ingredients
You’ll also need 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. This juice keeps the apple slices from turning brown. It adds a light, fresh taste to the chips. Make sure to toss the apple slices in lemon juice before adding the sugar mix. This simple step helps keep your apple chips looking great and tasting fresh.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
To start, gather your ingredients. You will need:
– 2 large apples (like Fuji or Honeycrisp)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Pinch of salt
Next, preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will keep the chips from sticking.
Now, wash and core the apples. Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to slice them very thin. Aim for 1/8 inch thick slices, as this helps the chips become crisp.
In a small bowl, mix the sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until it is well combined. This mixture will add great flavor to your chips.
Take the apple slices and place them in a large mixing bowl. Toss them with lemon juice. This step stops the apples from browning.
Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the apple slices. Make sure to coat them evenly for the best taste.
Baking Process
Lay the apple slices in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Ensure they do not overlap. Overlapping can lead to uneven cooking.
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Bake the apple slices for about 2 hours. Flip the chips halfway through. This helps them cook evenly and become crisp.
Cooling and Serving Tips
Once baked, take the chips out of the oven. Allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet. This step is key for extra crispness.
When ready to serve, place the apple chips in a decorative bowl. For a fun touch, sprinkle some extra cinnamon sugar on top. Enjoy these tasty snacks anytime!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Crispiness
To make your apple chips extra crispy, slice them thin. Aim for 1/8 inch thick slices. A mandoline helps you achieve this. Bake at a low temperature of 200°F (95°C). This slow baking removes moisture without burning. Flip the chips halfway through baking. This ensures they cook evenly. Let them cool on the baking sheet. They will crisp up even more as they cool.
Choosing the Right Apples
The best apples for chips are Fuji or Honeycrisp. These apples are sweet and hold their shape well. Tart apples like Granny Smith can also work. They add a nice contrast to the sweetness. Avoid soft apples, as they won’t crisp up as well. Select firm and fresh apples for the best results.
Preventing Browning
To keep your apple slices looking fresh, use lemon juice. Toss the apple slices in lemon juice right after slicing. This will stop them from turning brown. The acidity of lemon juice helps preserve color. You can also use a mix of water and lemon juice if you prefer. Just be sure to coat all the slices well.
Variations
Flavor Infusions
You can add fun flavors to your apple chips. Try using vanilla extract or a hint of nutmeg. These add warmth and depth. You can also sprinkle a bit of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. This twist brings a whole new vibe to your snack.
Different Sweeteners
While granulated sugar is great, you have options. Try using brown sugar for a richer taste. You can also use honey or agave syrup. These sweeteners give a different flavor profile. Just remember, honey will add moisture, so adjust baking time if needed.
Alternative Cooking Methods
You don’t have to bake to make apple chips. You can use a dehydrator for a healthier snack. Simply follow the same steps but set your dehydrator to 135°F (57°C). This method takes longer but keeps more nutrients. You can also try air frying for a quicker, crispier result. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques
To keep your cinnamon sugar apple chips tasty and crisp, store them in an airtight container. A glass jar works well, but a zip-top bag is fine too. Make sure to squeeze out the air before sealing. This helps prevent moisture from making them soft.
Shelf Life of Apple Chips
If stored correctly, your apple chips can last for up to two weeks. If you want them to stay fresh longer, consider refrigerating them. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before you eat them.
Re-crisping Methods
If you find your apple chips have lost their crunch, you can easily fix that. Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C). Spread the apple chips on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake them for 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Let them cool before enjoying again!
FAQs
How to make Cinnamon Sugar Apple Chips?
To make cinnamon sugar apple chips, start by preheating your oven to 200°F (95°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Wash and core two large apples, like Fuji or Honeycrisp. Slice the apples very thinly, about 1/8 inch thick.
Next, mix two tablespoons of sugar, one teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. In a large mixing bowl, toss the apple slices with one tablespoon of lemon juice. This step keeps the apples from turning brown.
Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the apple slices and coat them evenly. Lay the slices in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for about two hours, flipping halfway through. Once they’re crisp and dry, let them cool on the sheet.
What are the best apples for apple chips?
The best apples for apple chips are Fuji and Honeycrisp. These apples are sweet and crisp. Their texture holds up well during baking. You can also try Granny Smith for a tart flavor. Each type gives a different taste and crunch.
Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, you can use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. Brown sugar adds a rich, caramel flavor. It also gives your chips a deeper color. Just use the same amount as granulated sugar for best results.
Are cinnamon sugar apple chips healthy?
Cinnamon sugar apple chips are a healthy snack option. They are low in calories and packed with fiber. Apples offer vitamins and minerals, making them great for you. Just be careful with the amount of sugar used.
Where to buy cinnamon sugar apple chips?
You can buy cinnamon sugar apple chips at most grocery stores. Look in the snack aisle or near the dried fruits. You can also find them online. Many brands offer different flavors and styles, so check the labels for quality.
In this post, we explored how to make cinnamon sugar apple chips. We covered ingredients like apples, sugar, and cinnamon. I shared step-by-step preparation and baking tips. You learned how to perfect the crispiness and choose the best apples. Variations and storage techniques were also included.
Making these chips is easy and fun. Enjoy your tasty, homemade snacks!
