Air Fryer Cinnamon Apple Chips

This homemade cinnamon apple chips recipe transforms ordinary apples into crispy, sweet treats without any added preservatives or oils. Perfect for satisfying snack cravings while keeping things wholesome and delicious.

I discovered this recipe during apple picking season when my kitchen was overflowing with McIntosh apples. What started as a way to preserve our harvest has become our favorite fall tradition, with the kids always monitoring the oven for the first batch to cool.

Ingredients

• McIntosh apples: These apples have the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, creating chips with complex flavor. Look for firm apples without bruising.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds that classic warm spice that pairs perfectly with apples. Fresh cinnamon with strong aroma works best.
• Granulated sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness of the apples and helps with caramelization. Choose organic if possible for cleaner flavor.
• Cooking spray: Creates a nonstick surface so your chips release easily. Any neutral oil spray works well.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. This low temperature slowly dehydrates the apples without burning them, preserving more nutrients and flavor. Check your oven temperature with a thermometer if possible as accuracy matters for proper dehydration.

Prepare the Apples:

Core apples and slice them into uniform thickness between 1/8 to 1/4 inch. Thinner slices will become crispier while thicker ones will remain slightly chewy in the center. Using a mandoline slicer guarantees consistent thickness for even baking. Leave the skin on for added nutrition and a beautiful red edge.

Season the Slices:

Place apple slices in a large bowl and sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar if using. Toss gently with your hands until each slice is evenly coated. The natural moisture from the apples will help the seasonings adhere.

Arrange on Baking Sheets:

Prepare baking sheets with either a light coating of cooking spray or parchment paper. Arrange apple slices in a single layer without overlapping to ensure even drying. You will likely need two baking sheets to accommodate all slices properly.

Bake to Perfection:

Place in preheated oven and bake for 2-3 hours, checking occasionally after the 2-hour mark. The chips should feel dry to the touch but still slightly pliable when hot—they will crisp up further as they cool. Rotate pans halfway through baking for even results.

Cooling Period:

Remove from oven and allow to cool completely on the baking sheets. This final cooling stage is essential as it completes the crisping process. The chips will become noticeably more rigid as they reach room temperature.

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The aroma of cinnamon and apples baking slowly is perhaps my favorite part of making these chips. My grandmother used to make something similar on her wood stove, and the scent instantly transports me back to her warm country kitchen where we would wait impatiently for treats to cool.

Choosing the Right Apple Variety

While McIntosh apples are specified in this recipe, several other varieties work beautifully. Honeycrisp produces sweeter chips with excellent crunch. Granny Smith creates tangier chips that pair wonderfully with sweet dips. Pink Lady offers a balance between sweet and tart with gorgeous coloring. The key is selecting firm apples with good flavor when eaten raw, as their character intensifies during the dehydration process.

Storage Solutions

Store cooled apple chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For extended freshness, add a food-grade silica packet to absorb any moisture. If chips begin to lose their crispness, simply place them back in a 200°F oven for 10 minutes and allow to cool again. Avoid refrigeration as condensation will soften your perfectly crisp chips.

Creative Serving Ideas

These apple chips shine on their own but can elevate other dishes too. Crumble them over oatmeal or yogurt for breakfast. Add them to a cheese board for a sweet counterpoint to savory options. Pack them in school lunches as a wholesome treat. Dip them in caramel sauce or peanut butter for an indulgent snack. Crush slightly and use as a topping for ice cream or custard desserts.

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These homemade apple chips are an irresistible snack that takes an everyday fruit to new heights!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of apples are best for making apple chips?

McIntosh apples are ideal for their natural sweetness, but you can use other varieties like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith for a tart flavor.

→ Can I make apple chips without adding sugar?

Yes! The natural sweetness of most apples is enough to make delicious apple chips. Sugar can be omitted if desired.

→ Why should the apple slices be thin and uniform?

Thin and uniform slices ensure even baking, so all the chips become crispy at the same time without burning.

→ Can I store apple chips for later use?

Yes, once completely cooled, store the chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

→ How do I know when the apple chips are done baking?

The apple slices should feel dry to the touch but still slightly soft. They crisp up further as they cool.