Craving a sweet, crunchy treat without the guilt? These Air Fryer Cinnamon Apple Chips are a delightful and healthy apple dessert idea perfect for satisfying your cravings. You’ll love how simple they are to make and how wonderfully crisp they turn out.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Apples: Firm varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp work best. Avoid softer apples as they can get mushy.
- Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is key for that classic flavor.
- Sweetener (Optional): A touch of maple syrup or a sugar substitute can be added for extra sweetness.
Ingredients
- 2 medium apples, cored and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or sweetener of your choice (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30-40 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-30 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Calories per serving: Approximately 80-100 (without optional sweetener)
- Tools Needed: Mandoline slicer (recommended) or sharp knife, air fryer.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Apples
First, wash and core your apples. Then, use a mandoline slicer or a very sharp knife to slice them as thinly as possible, aiming for about 1/8 inch thickness. Uniform slices will ensure even cooking.
2. Season the Slices
In a medium bowl, gently toss the apple slices with ground cinnamon. If you’re using maple syrup or another sweetener, add it now and toss to coat evenly. Make sure each slice gets a good dusting of cinnamon.
3. Arrange in the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Arrange the seasoned apple slices in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding, as this helps them crisp up properly. You’ll likely need to work in batches.
4. Air Fry Until Crispy
Air fry for 10 minutes, then flip the slices and continue to air fry for another 10-20 minutes, checking every 5 minutes. The exact time will depend on your air fryer and the thickness of your slices. You’re looking for them to be dry, slightly shriveled, and crisp.
5. Cool and Enjoy
Once cooked, remove the apple chips from the air fryer and let them cool completely on a wire rack. They will crisp up even more as they cool. Enjoy your delicious, healthy apple dessert idea!
Variation Ideas
- Sprinkle with a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a different spice profile.
- Dip cooled chips in a small amount of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
- Add a tiny pinch of sea salt to enhance the sweetness.
Storage Instructions
Store your cooled Air Fryer Cinnamon Apple Chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. To re-crisp them, you can pop them back into the air fryer at 250°F (120°C) for 3-5 minutes. Ensure they are completely cool before storing to prevent sogginess.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can you make these without an air fryer?
A: Yes, you can bake them in an oven at a lower temperature (around 200-225°F or 95-107°C) for a longer period, flipping occasionally until crisp.
Q: What kind of apples are best for apple chips?
A: Firmer, less watery varieties like Fuji, Gala, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith work wonderfully.
Q: Why are my apple chips not crispy?
A: They might need more cooking time or thinner slices. Ensure your air fryer isn’t overcrowded, as this prevents proper air circulation.
Q: Can you store air fryer apple chips for a long time?
A: For best crispness, enjoy them within a few days. They can lose some crunch over time.
Q: Can you add other seasonings?
A: Absolutely! Consider a pumpkin pie spice blend or a dash of ginger for different flavors.
Q: Are these a good healthy apple dessert idea for kids?
A: Yes, they are a fantastic, natural, and low-sugar snack that most kids love!
