Table of Contents
Looking for a light, crunchy, and naturally sweet snack that feels indulgent but is actually healthy? Baked Apple Chips are the answer! These crispy, healthy apple chips are oven-baked to perfection and make the ultimate guilt-free treat for adults and kids alike. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or just trying to avoid processed snacks, this easy, homemade version will become your go-to recipe.
In this detailed guide, we’ll show you how to make the crispiest apple chips at home using just a few simple ingredients. With helpful pro tips, common mistakes to avoid, and fun flavor variations, you’ll never go back to store-bought chips again.
🔍 Why You’ll Love These Baked Apple Chips
-
Only 2 main ingredients
-
No added sugar (unless you want it)
-
Naturally gluten-free & vegan
-
Crunchy, sweet, and kid-approved
-
Budget-friendly and no dehydrator needed
🍎 Ingredients for Baked Apple Chips
You only need a few pantry staples to make these healthy apple chips in the oven:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh apples | 2–3 medium | Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp are ideal |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/2 tsp (optional) | For flavor |
| Lemon juice | 1 tsp (optional) | Helps prevent browning |
| Coconut sugar or maple sugar | 1 tsp (optional) | For a touch of sweetness |
📝 Step-by-Step Instructions
🔪 Step 1: Choose and Wash Your Apples
Pick fresh, firm apples. Sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady work best since they need no added sugar. Wash thoroughly to remove any wax or residue.
🔄 Step 2: Slice Evenly
Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, slice the apples into thin rounds (about 1/8 inch thick). Uniform thickness is essential to get crispy baked apple chips without some burning while others stay soggy.
Pro Tip: You can leave the core and seeds for a rustic look, or remove them with an apple corer if preferred.
🍋 Step 3: Soak (Optional but Recommended)
Soak slices in a bowl with lemon juice and cold water for about 5 minutes to preserve color and prevent browning.
🧂 Step 4: Season
Pat slices dry with a clean towel. Arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle lightly with cinnamon and, if desired, a pinch of coconut sugar.
🔥 Step 5: Bake Low and Slow
-
Preheat oven to 200°F (95°C).
-
Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, flipping halfway through.
-
Keep a close eye during the last 20 minutes. They should feel dry and crisp when touched.
Pro Tip: Use convection setting if your oven has one for even crisping.
🌬️ Step 6: Cool Completely
Let the apple chips cool on the tray for at least 10–15 minutes. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.
🍽️ Nutritional Value (Per 1 Cup Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 95 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Sugars (natural) | 19g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Protein | 0.5g |
| Fat | 0g |
| Vitamin C | 8% DV |
| Potassium | 195mg |
Note: Nutrition may vary slightly based on apple type and optional ingredients.
💡 Tips & Variations
🔁 Flavor Variations
-
Chai Spice: Mix cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg & cardamom.
-
Salted Caramel Apple Chips: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt & coconut sugar before baking.
-
Savory Twist: Try paprika and a touch of sea salt.
-
Vanilla Maple: Lightly brush slices with maple syrup and a drop of vanilla extract.
💡 Expert Tips
-
Always slice apples evenly for consistent crispness.
-
Use two baking sheets if doubling the recipe, but avoid overlapping slices.
-
Keep the oven door slightly ajar with a wooden spoon to allow moisture to escape for crispier chips.
-
If your chips feel soft, bake 15–20 minutes more at 200°F, checking every 5 minutes.
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Too thick slices – They won’t crisp and will stay chewy.
-
Overcrowding the pan – Leads to uneven baking and sogginess.
-
Not flipping slices – Causes one side to stay soggy.
-
Baking at high temps – They burn before they dry out.
-
Skipping the cool-down step – They may seem soft out of the oven but firm up when cooled.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
📦 How to Store Apple Chips
-
Let chips cool completely before storing.
-
Store in an airtight container or glass jar.
-
Keep at room temperature in a cool, dry place.
-
Stays crisp for up to 5–7 days (if you can resist that long!).
🔁 Reheating for Crispness
If they soften over time:
-
Re-bake in a 200°F oven for 10–15 minutes to revive the crunch.
-
Let them cool again before eating.
❓ FAQs about Baked Apple Chips
1. Can I use a dehydrator instead of the oven?
Absolutely! A dehydrator set at 135°F (57°C) for 6–8 hours will yield evenly dried chips with excellent texture.
2. Why aren’t my apple chips getting crispy?
They may be too thick or need more baking time. Also, allow them to cool fully—this is when they firm up.
3. Do I need to peel the apples first?
Not at all! The skin adds nutrients, color, and extra crispness. Leave it on unless you strongly prefer otherwise.
4. Are baked apple chips healthy?
Yes! They’re low in calories, high in fiber, and contain no added sugar if you skip the sweetener. They’re a great alternative to processed snacks.
📌 Final Thoughts & Call-to-Action
Baked Apple Chips are the perfect combination of sweet, crunchy, and healthy. They’re easy to make, incredibly versatile, and ideal for school lunches, hiking snacks, or late-night cravings. Once you try this homemade version, you’ll never want to buy the packaged kind again.
🍎 If you loved this recipe, please save it to your Pinterest board, share it on Facebook, or email it to a friend! Let’s spread the joy of healthy snacking—one crisp apple chip at a time.
