Craving a tasty snack that’s both crispy and sweet? Look no further! These Cinnamon Sugar Apple Chips are your answer. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a guilt-free treat packed with flavor and crunch. I’ll walk you through each step, from choosing the best apples to baking them to perfection. Say goodbye to store-bought snacks and get ready to impress your taste buds!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 large apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– A pinch of salt
– Cooking spray (or coconut oil for a vegan option)
Nutritional Information
Each serving of these apple chips has about 100 calories. They offer 2 grams of fiber and 10 grams of sugar. This snack is light yet satisfying.
Health Benefits
Apples are high in fiber, which helps with digestion. They also provide vitamins like Vitamin C. Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties. It can help regulate blood sugar levels. Together, they make a healthy and tasty snack.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheets
First, preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C). This low heat helps the apples dry out slowly. Next, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This makes it easy to clean up after baking.
Preparing the Apples
Wash your apples well and dry them with a towel. You can use any variety you like, such as Honeycrisp or Fuji. Slice the apples very thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. You do not need to peel them. Thin slices will get crispier.
Mixing Cinnamon Sugar and Assembling
In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This blend gives the chips their sweet and spicy flavor. Now, lay the apple slices in a single layer on your baking sheets. Make sure the slices do not touch each other. Lightly spray the slices with cooking spray. You can also brush them with coconut oil if you prefer. This step helps the cinnamon sugar stick to the apples.
Baking the Apple Chips
Now it’s time to bake! Place the baking sheets in your preheated oven. Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours. Remember to flip the apple slices halfway through to ensure they crisp evenly. Keep a close watch on them to avoid burning. After baking, take them out and let them cool. The chips will become even crisper as they cool down. Enjoy your tasty and crunchy snack!
Tips & Tricks
Best Apple Varieties for Crispness
For the best crispness, I recommend using Honeycrisp or Fuji apples. These apples are firm and sweet. Their natural water content helps achieve that perfect crunch. Other great options are Granny Smith and Pink Lady. These apples add a tart flavor and balance the sweetness of the cinnamon sugar.
Ensuring Perfect Crispness
To check for doneness, look for a deep golden color. The apple chips should feel dry and crisp to the touch. If they start to brown too fast, lower the oven temperature slightly. Remember to flip the slices halfway through baking. This helps them cook evenly and prevents burning. Keep a close eye on them during the last 30 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
You can serve cinnamon sugar apple chips in fun ways. Try placing them in a cute bowl for a snack. For a twist, drizzle honey or maple syrup on the side for dipping. You can also pair them with yogurt for a tasty treat. They make a great addition to salads or cheese platters. Enjoy your deliciously crunchy apple chips!
Variations
Flavor Additions
You can mix in other spices to change the flavor. Try adding a pinch of nutmeg for warmth. You could also sprinkle a little vanilla extract on the apple slices for a sweet twist. Cinnamon and nutmeg pair well and give a cozy taste to your chips. If you want a bit of zest, add a touch of lemon zest. This will brighten the flavor and make it more refreshing.
Alternative Sweeteners
If you want to swap the sugar, there are good options. Honey is a great natural sweetener that adds a unique flavor. Maple syrup works well too and gives a nice, earthy taste. For those looking to cut sugar, try sugar substitutes like stevia or monk fruit. Just remember to adjust the amount since they can be sweeter than sugar.
Dehydrator Method
Using a dehydrator is a simple way to make apple chips. Start by washing and slicing your apples thinly, just like for the oven method. Place the slices in a single layer on the dehydrator trays. Set the temperature to 135°F (57°C) and let them dehydrate for about 6 to 8 hours. Check on them to see if they are crisp. Once done, let them cool and enjoy!
Storage Info
How to Store Apple Chips
To keep your apple chips fresh, store them in an airtight container. Glass jars work great, but plastic bags can also work if sealed well. Keep them in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can make them soggy.
Shelf Life
When stored correctly, these apple chips can last up to two weeks. They stay crispy and tasty during this time. After two weeks, they may lose some crunch but will still be good to eat.
Re-crisping Tips
If your apple chips lose their crunch, don’t worry! You can re-crisp them. Simply place them on a baking sheet in a 200°F (93°C) oven for about 10 minutes. This will help restore their delightful crunch.
FAQs
How long to bake cinnamon sugar apple chips?
Bake cinnamon sugar apple chips for 1.5 to 2 hours. This low heat helps them dry out and become crispy. Flip the slices halfway through to ensure even baking. Check on them after an hour to avoid burning. The goal is a perfect crunch that’s golden brown. Use a timer, and keep an eye on your chips as they bake.
Can I use pears instead of apples?
Yes, you can use pears! Pears will give a different taste and texture. They may bake faster, so check them at around 1 hour. If you choose pears, slice them just like apples. You can also mix apples and pears for fun flavors. Adjust the sugar and cinnamon slightly, as pears are sweeter.
Are cinnamon sugar apple chips healthy?
Cinnamon sugar apple chips can be a healthy snack. Apples are rich in fiber and vitamins. The sugar adds sweetness, but you can reduce it if needed. This snack is better than many store-bought chips. It has no added preservatives. Enjoy these chips in moderation for a tasty treat.
Making cinnamon sugar apple chips is fun and easy. We covered the simple ingredients, like apples and cinnamon, and shared a clear step-by-step process. You learned tips for crispiness and creative ways to serve your chips. Plus, we explored flavor variations and storage methods to keep them fresh.
In the end, these snacks are tasty and healthy. They offer a great way to enjoy apples. Try them and experiment with your own flavors!
