When it comes to healthy snacking, cinnamon apple chips are a fantastic option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. These crunchy, sweet, and spiced treats are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a tasty addition to your lunchbox, cinnamon apple chips are sure to satisfy your cravings without any guilt. Let’s dive into why these apple chips are the perfect healthy snack!
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples (any variety, such as Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Parchment paper (for baking)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 200°F (93°C). This low temperature is key to ensuring that the apple slices dry out properly without burning.
2. Prepare the Apples
Wash and dry the apples thoroughly. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline, slice the apples into thin, even rounds (about 1/8 inch thick). Remove any seeds as you slice.
3. Prevent Browning
To keep your apple slices looking fresh, toss them in a bowl with lemon juice immediately after slicing. The lemon juice helps prevent browning while adding a hint of flavor.
4. Season the Apple Slices
In a small bowl, mix together the ground cinnamon and sugar (if using). Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the apple slices, ensuring each slice is coated.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the apple slices in a single layer on the sheet, making sure they do not overlap to ensure even drying.
6. Bake the Apple Chips
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 2-3 hours, flipping the slices halfway through. Keep an eye on them toward the end of baking; they should be crisp and slightly golden.
7. Cool and Enjoy
Once the apple chips are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. They will continue to crisp up as they cool. Enjoy your healthy cinnamon apple chips as a snack or store them in an airtight container!
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Apple Chips
- Use a Mandoline: For uniform thickness, a mandoline slicer is highly recommended.
- Try Different Apples: Experiment with different apple varieties for varying sweetness and flavor.
- Storage: Store cooled apple chips in an airtight container to keep them crisp for up to a week.
- Flavor Variations: Mix things up by adding nutmeg, ginger, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist!