Easy Crispy Apple Chips with Cinnamon: A Healthy Snack Upgrade

Anna

Sharing stories, traditions, and flavors

The warm scent of cinnamon mingling with crisp baked apples has a way of instantly brightening my day. What started as a simple craving for a healthier snack quickly turned into my go-to recipe: homemade apple chips with cinnamon. They’re irresistibly crunchy, naturally sweet, and oh-so-easy to make—perfect for anyone tired of the same old chips or packaged treats. Whether you’re looking for a guilt-free afternoon pick-me-up or a crowd-pleasing snack for your next gathering, these apple chips deliver that satisfying crunch and cozy flavor with minimal effort. Let me show you how a few simple ingredients can transform into a snack that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

Why try Apple Chips with Cinnamon?

Crunchy Delight: These apple chips offer a perfect crispiness that satisfies snack cravings without any guilt. Simple Prep: Made with just fresh apples and cinnamon, you don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen. Warm Flavor: The cozy hint of cinnamon elevates natural apple sweetness into an irresistible treat. Healthy Swap: Say goodbye to greasy, processed snacks and enjoy a fiber-rich, low-calorie alternative. Versatile Snack: Ideal for kids, adults, or party platters—everyone loves them!

Apple Chips with Cinnamon Ingredients

For the Apple Chips

Fresh Apples – Choose crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best crunch and balanced tartness.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warm, inviting flavor that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the apples and highlights the essence of apple chips with cinnamon.
Lemon Juice – A light brush of lemon juice prevents the apple slices from browning and keeps their vibrant color.
Sweetener (optional) – A sprinkle of brown sugar or maple syrup can enhance sweetness if you prefer a dessert-like snack.

For Baking

Parchment Paper – Ensures the apple slices bake evenly without sticking to your tray.
Nonstick Cooking Spray (optional) – Helps achieve an even crispiness when sprayed lightly on apple slices before baking.

How to Make Apple Chips with Cinnamon

Preheat
Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure even baking and prevent sticking.
Core & Slice
Core each apple and slice into 1/8-inch rounds using a mandoline or sharp knife. Aim for uniform thickness for consistent crispiness.
Toss
In a large bowl, gently toss the apple slices with a light brush of lemon juice to prevent browning and retain bright color.
Season
Sprinkle ground cinnamon evenly over both sides of the apple slices. Add a light dusting of brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter apple chips with cinnamon treat.
Arrange
Lay the seasoned slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap for proper air circulation and even crisping.
Bake
Bake for 1 hour, then flip each slice and bake for another 45–60 minutes until edges curl and chips feel dry and crisp.
Cool
Remove from the oven and let the apple chips cool completely on the tray. They’ll firm up as they cool for that perfect crunch.

Optional: Dust with extra cinnamon sugar before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Apple Chips with Cinnamon

Room Temperature: Keep cooled apple chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful crunch.

Fridge: For longer freshness, store apple chips in the fridge in a sealed container; they can last up to 2 weeks, but may lose some crispiness.

Freezer: To preserve them even longer, freeze apple chips in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Once ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for best results.

Reheating: If your apple chips lose their crunch, reheat them in a preheated 200°F (95°C) oven for about 10 minutes to restore their crispy texture. Enjoy your apple chips with cinnamon as a wholesome snack!

Variations & Substitutions for Apple Chips with Cinnamon

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these apple chips to suit your taste and dietary preferences!

Spiced Apple Chips:
Add a blend of nutmeg and allspice for a cozy, aromatic twist that takes the flavor to new heights. The combination of spices brings warmth to every crunchy bite.
Sweetener Swap:
Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar or honey to cater to different sweetness preferences—perfect for natural sweetness lovers! This swap not only sweetens but adds a slight hint of caramel flavor.
Fruit Variation:
Try using pears or even peaches for a different fruit chip that’s just as delicious! Each fruit brings its unique flavor profile while keeping that satisfying crunch.
Savory Kick:
Sprinkle some sea salt and chili powder for a savory and slightly spicy version that will surprise your taste buds. The contrast of spice and sweetness makes for a delightful snacking experience.
Dairy-Free Creaminess:
Serve with a yogurt dip made from coconut or almond yogurt, adding a creamy layer that pairs beautifully with the crunch of apple chips. This also complements their natural sweetness perfectly.
Dark Chocolate Drizzle:
Drizzle melted dark chocolate over cooled apple chips for an indulgent treat that feels extra special. It brings a rich, luxurious element to your wholesome snack.
Crunchy Toppings:
Toss the apple chips with crushed nuts or seeds after baking for an added layer of texture and nutty flavor. Pecans or walnuts can elevate this snack to a new level of satisfaction.
Cinnamon Twist:
Experiment with different types of cinnamon, such as Ceylon or Saigon, for nuanced flavor variations. Each type will bring its unique essence, changing the character of your apple chips entirely.

Enjoy the exploration of flavors and textures as you craft your perfect batch of apple chips!

What to Serve with Apple Chips with Cinnamon?

The irresistible crunch of homemade apple chips pairs beautifully with a range of delightful accompaniments.

Creamy Yogurt Dip: A tangy Greek yogurt dip adds a luscious creaminess that balances the sweet cinnamon notes perfectly. Together, they offer a refreshing contrast that makes each bite enjoyable.
Cheese Platter: Pairing with sharp cheddar or creamy brie creates a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The savory aspect of cheese complements the sweetness of the apple chips, making it an enriching snack experience.
Nut Butter: Almond or peanut butter offers a protein-packed jumpstart that amplifies the heartiness of your apple chips. Spread a thin layer over a slice for a decadent and nutritious treat.
Trail Mix: A homemade trail mix with nuts, seeds, and dried fruits can enhance your snacking adventure. The added crunch and varied flavors elevate the simple apple chips into a satisfying and wholesome trail-worthy mix.
Cinnamon Hot Chocolate: Sip on a rich, homemade cinnamon hot chocolate for a cozy pairing. The warmth of the drink enhances the cinnamon flavor while providing a blissful treat vibe that’s perfect for any season.
Granola Clusters: These crunchy clusters can add an extra layer of crunch and flavor. Sweet and chewy granola complements the crispiness of the apple chips, creating a delightful snack combination.
Fresh Fruits: A side of fresh berries or sliced bananas offers a refreshing burst of flavor alongside your chips. Their natural sweetness pairs well and keeps the snack light and vibrant.

Make Ahead Options

Making these Apple Chips with Cinnamon ahead of time is simple and incredibly convenient for busy days ahead! You can slice and season the apples up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and vibrant, which helps prevent browning. If you want to prep even further, bake the apple chips and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days—they’ll maintain their crunch and flavor. When ready to serve, simply enjoy them as is, or give them a quick re-bake at a low temperature to restore warmth and crispiness. Enjoy the satisfaction of having a healthy, homemade snack ready at your fingertips!

Expert Tips for Apple Chips with Cinnamon

Uniform Slicing: Use a mandoline or sharp knife to slice apples evenly to ensure consistent baking and crispiness throughout your apple chips with cinnamon.
Prevent Browning: Toss apple slices immediately with lemon juice to keep them bright and fresh-looking before baking.
Low and Slow Baking: Bake at a low temperature around 200°F to dry out the apples gently, avoiding burning and uneven texture.
Flip Carefully: Turn apple slices halfway through baking to crisp both sides evenly and prevent soggy spots.
Cool Completely: Let the chips cool fully on the baking sheet to achieve maximum crunch before storing or serving.
Storage Advice: Store cooled apple chips in an airtight container to maintain their crispness and prevent moisture from softening your snack.

Easy Crispy Apple Chips with Cinnamon Recipe FAQs

What type of apples work best for apple chips with cinnamon?
Crisp and firm apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji are ideal. They hold their shape well and provide a balanced sweetness with just the right tartness for that perfect chip crunch.

How should I store homemade apple chips with cinnamon to keep them crispy?
Store completely cooled apple chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Avoid moisture and humidity to prevent sogginess. For longer storage, refrigeration up to 2 weeks is possible, though some crispness may fade.

Can I freeze apple chips with cinnamon? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, first make sure your apple chips are fully cooled and crispy. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before eating, and re-crisp in a low oven if needed.

My apple chips turned out soft instead of crispy—what went wrong?
This usually happens if the apple slices are too thick, the oven temperature was too high, or the chips weren’t baked long enough. For crispy results, slice apples uniformly thin (about 1/8 inch), bake low and slow at 200°F, and flip halfway through baking. Also, ensure they cool completely on the tray before storing.

Are apple chips with cinnamon safe for pets to eat?
Plain apple slices (without seeds or core) can be a healthy occasional treat for dogs, but cinnamon should be given in very small amounts or avoided, as it can cause digestive issues in some pets. Always check with your veterinarian before sharing human snacks with your furry friends.