Description
This Apple Chips recipe offers a simple, healthy way to enjoy crispy, naturally sweet apple slices baked low and slow in the oven. Perfect as a snack or a topping, these chips retain the apple’s natural flavors enhanced by optional cinnamon, nutmeg, or maple syrup, delivering a delightful crunch without added preservatives or artificial ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Core Ingredients
- 2 large apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Lemon juice (optional, to prevent browning)
Optional Add-Ins
- Pinch of ground nutmeg or cloves
- Drizzle of maple syrup (before baking, for added sweetness)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 225°F (110°C). This low temperature allows the apples to dry out slowly, preventing burning or excessive browning during the long baking process.
- Prepare the Apples: Wash and core the apples, keeping the peels on for extra texture and nutrients. Using a mandoline or sharp knife, slice the apples uniformly about 1/8 inch thick to ensure even drying and crispiness.
- Optional Lemon Bath: To reduce browning, soak the apple slices in a bowl of water mixed with a splash of lemon juice for 5 minutes. After soaking, pat the slices completely dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
- Add Flavor: Arrange the apple slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined or silicone-lined baking sheet, ensuring no overlap. Lightly sprinkle them with ground cinnamon, and add nutmeg or cloves if desired. For extra sweetness, drizzle a small amount of maple syrup evenly over the slices.
- Bake Low and Slow: Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake the apple slices for 1 hour. Afterward, carefully flip each slice over, then continue baking for an additional 1 to 1½ hours depending on slice thickness and moisture content. The chips are done when they feel dry to the touch and edges begin to curl.
- Cool and Crisp: Transfer the baked apple slices to a wire rack to cool. As they cool, the chips will crisp up further. If any slices remain soft or chewy after cooling, return them to the oven for another 20 to 30 minutes to achieve the desired texture.
Notes
- Using a mandoline ensures even thickness, which is key for uniform drying.
- Soaking in lemon water prevents enzymatic browning but is optional.
- Apple varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala yield optimal sweetness and crispness.
- Store cooled apple chips in an airtight container to maintain crispiness.
- Adjust baking time based on slice thickness and oven variations.
