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These cinnamon sugar baked apple chips are a low calorie crunchy and wholesome treat, easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and perfect for parties, as a midday snack, or even as an alternative dessert topping for yogurt or oatmeal.
I first discovered the allure of apple chips when a friend introduced me to a bowl of these delicate, crunchy treats at a local farmer’s market.
Their addictive crunch and subtle sweetness sparked my curiosity. I began experimenting in my own kitchen, pairing the natural flavors of apple with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
Soon enough, I found that a little almond butter dip elevated the flavor, creating a perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and spicy.
The slight tartness of the apple contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cinnamon sugar, creating a taste that dances on your palate.
The secret to perfectly crispy baked apple chips lies in choosing the right apple variety, slicing them to the ideal thickness for a satisfying crunch, and maintaining the perfect oven temperature for even baking.
Each step in the process is essential to create apple crisps chips that are not greasy, overly sweet, or lacking in flavor.
And if you’ve ever wondered how to make baked apple chips that are both healthy and irresistibly delicious, read on!
✅ Read the entire article to ensure you’re fully prepared with all the necessary equipment and ingredients. The full recipe and cooking instructions are below.
Key Ingredients for Baked Cinnamon Apple Chips
Here are the main ingredients that you will need to make apple chips:
- Apples: Apple varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are ideal because they hold their shape well during low-temperature baking and bring a balance of tartness and natural sugars to the mix.
- Cinnamon Sugar: This mix of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon not only adds a warm, spicy flavor but also enhances the apple’s natural sweetness. Some recipes even include a pinch of salt or nutmeg to deepen the flavor profile.
- Almond Butter (for dipping): Almond butter is a rich, nutritious complement to the crispy apple chips. Its creamy texture and nutty flavor provide a lovely contrast to the crunchy, spiced apples.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of lemon helps prevent the apple slices from browning and adds a subtle tang that brightens the overall flavor.
- Maple Syrup or Honey: These can be used in the almond butter dip for a touch of extra sweetness and depth.
Essential Equipment Needed to make Baked Apple Chips
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- Mandoline Slicer or Sharp Knife: Uniform slicing is key to ensuring that each chip bakes evenly. A mandoline slicer makes it easy to achieve consistent, thin slices that crisp up perfectly in the oven.
- Apple Corer: This tool simplifies the process of removing the core, making it easier and faster to prep your apples for slicing.
- Baking Sheets and Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper prevents the apple slices from sticking and helps with easy cleanup. Multiple sheets might be useful if you’re baking in batches.
- Cooling Rack: After baking, transferring your apple chips to a cooling rack allows air to circulate around them, preserving their crunchiness and preventing any residual steam from softening them.
- Mixing Bowls and Measuring Spoons: For mixing your cinnamon sugar blend and preparing the almond butter dip. Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors every time.
- Spatula: A gentle tool for flipping the apple slices halfway through baking, ensuring an even bake without breaking the delicate chips.
Nutritional Benefits of Baked Cinnamon Apple Chips
Cinnamon apple chips are a nutritious snack, rich in various essential nutrients that support overall health:
- High in Fiber: Apples are a natural source of dietary fiber, which is great for digestion and helps maintain a feeling of fullness between meals.
- Low in Calories: When baked without added fats, apple chips provide a satisfying crunch with minimal calories, making them an excellent choice for a healthy snack.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Cinnamon not only adds a delightful flavor but also brings antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation and support overall health.
- Healthy Fats: Almond butter adds a dose of healthy fats, protein, and vitamins (like vitamin E), balancing the natural sugars of the apples with a creamy, nutritious dip.
- Low Sodium: This recipe is designed with a careful balance of spices that enhances flavor without relying on excess salt, making it a great option for those watching their sodium intake.
- Cholesterol-Free: Naturally cholesterol-free, these apple chips, when paired with a wholesome almond butter dip, contribute to a heart-healthy diet.
- No Artificial Additives: Homemade baked apple chips allow you to embrace clean eating with a wholesome snack free from preservatives and artificial additives.
What to Serve or Pair with Apple Chips
Baked apple chips are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dips, spreads, and complementary flavors:
- Almond Butter Dip: Serve your apple chips alongside a smooth almond butter dip. This pairing highlights the natural flavors of both ingredients and offers a creamy contrast to the crisp chips.
- Peanut Butter: For those who prefer a different nutty flavor, a thick, natural peanut butter works just as well. Its rich taste pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the apple chips.
- Dessert Garnishes: Sprinkle crushed apple chips as a garnish on your favorite ice cream or apple pie. Their crunchy texture adds an unexpected twist and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt can add a tangy creaminess that pairs beautifully with the sweet and spicy notes of the apple chips. It’s a great option if you’re looking for extra protein.
- Cheese Platter: For a savory twist, pair your apple chips with a selection of cheeses. The contrast between the sweet chips and salty, rich cheeses can be a delightful treat.
- Nutty Granola or Oatmeal: Crushed apple chips make a fun, crunchy topping for granola or oatmeal, adding both texture and a burst of flavor to your breakfast or snack.
- Herbal Tea or Coffee: Enjoy these chips as an accompaniment to your favorite warm beverage. The spices in the apple chips, particularly the cinnamon, complement the flavors in coffee and herbal teas perfectly.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Mix your apple chips with a medley of fresh fruits for a vibrant and healthy dessert or snack bowl that combines crunchy textures with refreshing flavors.
- Chocolate Hummus: A unique and modern pairing, chocolate hummus offers a subtle cocoa flavor that plays well with the cinnamon spice and natural tartness of the apples.
Quick Tips for Making the Best Apple Chips
- Uniform Slices Are Key: For the best texture, try to slice the apples as uniformly as possible. A mandoline slicer can be a game changer.
- Watch the Oven: Keep a close eye on your chips in the final baking stages. They can quickly go from perfectly crispy to slightly burnt.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to tweak the spice mix. A pinch of cardamom or ginger can add a unique twist to the classic cinnamon sugar.
- Storage Tip: If you’re making these ahead of time, store them in an airtight container. For extra crunchiness, place a packet of silica gel (food safe) in the container to absorb moisture.
- Dip Variations: If almond butter isn’t your favorite, try pairing the apple chips with cashew butter or even a Greek yogurt dip (if not vegan) for an interesting flavor contrast.
- Ideal Apple Choices: Use apples that are firm and less juicy; varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best.
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This baked apple chips recipe is designed to be nutritious yet indulgent, making it a perfect snack for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor.
Don’t be afraid to try different apple varieties or adjust the spice mix to match your personal taste. Each variation brings its own story and unique flavor profile.
Food is best enjoyed when shared. These apple chips are a great conversation starter and an excellent addition to any potluck, picnic, or casual get-together.
Embrace the slow, deliberate process of making these chips. It’s a reminder that some of the best things in life require patience and attention to detail, qualities that translate to both your cooking and your overall lifestyle.
So, next time you’re in the mood for a snack that’s both healthy and satisfying, give this homemade apple cinnamon chips recipe a try and don’t forget to share your results with friends and family.
Happy cooking!
Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Baked Apple Chips with Almond Butter
Description
Perfect for a healthy snack or appetizer, these crunchy apple chips are made with fresh apples, a dusting of cinnamon sugar, and a luscious almond butter dip.
Ingredients
For the Apple Chips
For the Almond Butter Dip
Cooking Instructions
Prepping the Apples
Wash and Core
- Start by thoroughly washing your apples.
- Remove the core using an apple corer or a sharp knife.
- It’s best to leave the peel on for extra nutrients and fiber.
Slice Uniformly
- Slice the apples as thinly as possible using a mandoline slicer.
- Aim for about one-eighth inch thickness to ensure they crisp up nicely.
- Uniform slices mean even baking and perfectly crunchy apple chips every time.
Prevent Browning
- If you’re not ready to bake immediately, lightly toss the apple slices in a mixture of water and lemon juice (about 1 tablespoon lemon juice per cup of water) to keep them from browning.
Seasoning the Apple Slices
Mix the Spices
- In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg (if using).
- Stir well.
Coat the Apples
- Lay the apple slices on a clean surface and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over them.
- Gently toss each slice to ensure an even coating.
- This step is crucial as it’s the heart of the apple chips flavor.
Baking the Apple Chips
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 225°F (107°C).
- A low temperature ensures the apple slices dehydrate slowly, resulting in a perfect crunch without burning.
Prepare Baking Sheets
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Arrange the apple slices in a single layer without overlapping.
- Overlapping can lead to uneven baking.
Bake Slowly
- Place the trays in the oven and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Flip the apple slices halfway through the baking process.
- Keep an eye on them during the last 30 minutes, baking times can vary slightly depending on the apple variety and thickness.
- The apple chips should be crispy and lightly browned at the edges.
Cool Completely
- Once baked, remove the trays from the oven and let the apple chips cool completely on a cooling rack.
- They will continue to crisp up as they cool.
Preparing the Almond Butter Dip
Combine Ingredients
- In a small bowl, mix together the almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
Adjust Consistency
- Add a little water (1 teaspoon at a time) until you reach your desired consistency for dipping.
- The almond butter dip should be smooth and slightly runny without being too thin.
Cinnamon Touch
- Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon into the dip for an extra layer of flavor.
Serve
Plate and Serve
- Arrange the apple chips in a decorative bowl and offer them as a healthy snack option at your next gathering.
- Serve a generous portion of your crunchy apple chips with a side of the almond butter dip.
- These apple chips are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Serving Size 1 oz
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 180kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8g13%
- Saturated Fat 0.5g3%
- Sodium 25mg2%
- Potassium 220mg7%
- Total Carbohydrate 22g8%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 14g
- Protein 4g8%
- Vitamin A 120 IU
- Vitamin C 8 mg
- Calcium 35 mg
- Vitamin K 4 mcg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Ensure all apple slices are uniform for even baking.
- Keep a steady 225°F to prevent burning.
- Let chips cool fully to reach optimal crispiness.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain crunch.
- Taste and adjust your cinnamon sugar blend as needed.
- Monitor the final 30 minutes of baking to avoid overcooking.
