There is something utterly magical about the crunch of homemade apple chips seasoned with a warm sprinkle of cinnamon, and this Air Fryer Cinnamon Apple Chips Recipe captures that delight in a healthy, easy-to-make snack. Crisp on the outside but tender enough to savor their natural sweetness, these chips are a perfect guilt-free treat that you can whip up in just 25 minutes. Whether you’re craving a quick snack or looking for a creative twist on classic apples, this recipe combines simple ingredients with the modern convenience of an air fryer to make snack time extraordinary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role: the apple provides juicy natural sweetness and a perfect base for crisping, the cinnamon adds that nostalgic warmth and aromatic kick, while the sugar gives a subtle caramelized crunch that elevates this snack to pure bliss.
- 1 large red delicious apple: Ideal for its natural sweetness and firm texture that crisps wonderfully in the air fryer.
- 1 Tbsp granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness and helps the chips caramelize beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: Brings the cozy, spicy flavor that makes every bite irresistible.
- Cooking spray: Prevents sticking and ensures even crisping without adding extra calories.
How to Make Air Fryer Cinnamon Apple Chips Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Slices
Start by evenly slicing your apple into very thin 1/8th inch slices. Removing the seeds is important for a smooth snacking experience, and laying them on a flat surface helps you keep track of portions and ensure even seasoning.
Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar
Combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This simple mixture is the secret to achieving that perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavor that makes these chips a standout snack choice.
Step 3: Season the Slices
Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously on both sides of each apple slice. This double-sided coating guarantees that every bite bursts with flavor and creates a delightful caramelized coating during cooking.
Step 4: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket
Lightly coat your air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Air fryers work best with a bit of greasing, helping your apple chips develop their signature crispness without leaving behind any residue.
Step 5: Air Fry the Apple Chips
Place the seasoned apple slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure to avoid stacking them too much. Set the temperature to 300°F and air fry for 15 minutes, tossing the slices every 5 minutes. This tossing is key for uniform crisping and prevents any apple pieces from burning or sticking together.
Step 6: Cool and Crisp
Once golden brown and nearly crispy, transfer the apple chips to a cooling rack. This step is essential as they continue to crisp up perfectly while cooling, delivering that satisfying crunch we all crave.
How to Serve Air Fryer Cinnamon Apple Chips Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg or finely chopped toasted nuts over your apple chips. These garnishes not only add texture but also enhance the warm cinnamon flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair these apple chips with creamy Greek yogurt or a mild cream cheese dip for a balance of textures and flavors. Their natural sweetness complements savory dips wonderfully, making for a fun and healthy snack platter.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving your Air Fryer Cinnamon Apple Chips Recipe in small mason jars or decorative bowls turns snack time into a charming mini celebration. Try layering them with yogurt and granola for a grab-and-go parfait that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store your apple chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To preserve their crispness, avoid refrigeration as moisture can soften the chips.
Freezing
Freezing apple chips isn’t ideal because they may absorb moisture and become soggy upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy them fresh or store them properly at room temperature.
Reheating
If your apple chips lose some crunch, simply pop them back into the air fryer at 300°F for 2 to 3 minutes. This quick reheating revives their crisp texture without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this Air Fryer Cinnamon Apple Chips Recipe?
Absolutely! While red delicious apples provide a sweet and firm base, varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp also work wonderfully and each brings a slightly different flavor profile and sweetness.
How thin should the apple slices be?
Try to slice the apples about 1/8th inch thick. If they are too thick, the chips won’t crisp up properly, and if too thin, they may burn or become too brittle.
Do I need to soak the apple slices before cooking?
Soaking isn’t necessary for this recipe. The natural moisture of the apple slices along with the cinnamon sugar helps them crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
You can bake these apple chips in a conventional oven at 225°F for about 1 to 1.5 hours, flipping every 20 minutes, but the air fryer significantly reduces the cooking time and gives a great texture with less effort.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes! Using fresh apples, a small amount of sugar, and cinnamon makes this snack a wholesome alternative to processed chips. Air frying also avoids the use of excessive oil, keeping it light and nutritious.
Final Thoughts
Making your own Air Fryer Cinnamon Apple Chips Recipe is like unlocking a treasure of flavors and textures right in your kitchen. This snack is quick, satisfying, and wholesome—perfect for when you need a cozy, crunchy treat. I promise, once you try these, apple chips will become your go-to snack. So grab your air fryer and let’s get crisping!
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Air Fryer Cinnamon Apple Chips Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Air Fryer Cinnamon Apple Chips are a healthy, crispy, and flavorful snack made effortlessly in just 25 minutes. Thinly sliced apples are coated with a cinnamon-sugar mixture and cooked in the air fryer to create a perfectly crunchy treat that’s great for satisfying sweet cravings without the guilt.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 large red delicious apple
- 1 Tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- cooking spray
Instructions
- Slice the Apple: Evenly slice the apple into 1/8 inch thick slices, making sure to remove any seeds. Lay the slices in a single layer on a flat surface and set aside.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon thoroughly.
- Coat the Apple Slices: Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over both sides of the apple slices to ensure every chip has a sweet and spicy flavor. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the coated apple slices in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding to allow even air circulation.
- Air Fry the Chips: Set the air fryer temperature to 300°F (150°C). Air fry the apple slices for 15 minutes, tossing or turning them every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and browning. In the last few minutes, toss more frequently to prevent burning and achieve a golden brown, almost crispy texture.
- Cool the Chips: Transfer the cooked apple chips onto a cooling rack and allow them to cool completely. The chips will crisp up further as they cool down.
- Serve: Enjoy the cinnamon apple chips immediately once cooled for the best crunch and flavor.
Notes
- Make sure to slice the apples as evenly as possible to ensure uniform cooking.
- Use a tart apple like Granny Smith for a tangier flavor or keep with Red Delicious for sweetness.
- Store leftover apple chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain crispiness.
- Keep an eye on the chips during the last few minutes to avoid burning, as thin slices cook quickly.
- For a sugar-free option, omit the granulated sugar and sprinkle with just cinnamon.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
