Air Fryer Apple Chips: A Healthy, Easy Treat

Air fryers are a great way to make apple chips. They are a healthy snack that can be made with just apples and cinnamon, and they are a great alternative to potato chips. You can also add sugar and other spices like nutmeg or cardamom to add a bit of sweetness or a different flavor profile. The entire process is simple and easy, and the chips are perfect for snacking, adding to lunch bags, or even topping off your morning oatmeal.

Choosing the right apples

First, consider the size of the apples. Larger apples will give you larger apple chips, which can be more satisfying to eat. Red Delicious apples are a good option if you're looking for large, sweet, easily available, and inexpensive apples.

The sweetness of the apples is another important factor. Sweeter apples, such as Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, Gala, and Fuji, will give you a more delicious result without having to add extra sweetener. If you prefer your apple chips on the sweeter side, you can also add a sprinkle of sugar to the recipe.

The cost of apples can also be a factor in your decision. Cheaper apples, like Jonagolds, can be a great option if you want to keep costs down without sacrificing taste.

Finally, consider the texture of the apples. Crunchy apples, such as Fuji, Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Gala, and Pink Lady, will give you a crisp and satisfying bite.

When choosing apples for your air fryer apple chips, look for large, sweet, crunchy varieties that fit within your budget. By selecting the right apples, you can enhance the flavour and texture of your homemade snack.

Cinnamon and other spices

Cinnamon is a popular spice to use when making apple chips in an air fryer, as it complements the flavour of the apples. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon for extra flavour.

If you want to try something other than cinnamon, you could use apple pie spice, which includes cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and nutmeg. Pumpkin pie spice is another option, or you could try a cinnamon-sugar mixture.

For a different flavour profile, you could try nutmeg, pumpkin spice, or a pinch of cardamom. You could even go for a savoury option with a sprinkle of rosemary or thyme.

Slicing the apples

When using a mandoline, it is important to be cautious as the blades are very sharp. It is recommended to use cut-resistant gloves or a safety guard to protect your fingers. If using a knife, a sharp chef's knife will make slicing through the apples easier and more precise.

Start by washing and drying the apples to remove any dirt or residue. Then, use the mandoline or knife to cut the apples horizontally into thin slices. It is not necessary to core or peel the apples unless you prefer to do so. Leaving the core creates a fun star shape in the middle of the apple slices, while coring results in a donut shape.

After slicing, remove any seeds or stems from the apple slices. It is also a good idea to remove any remaining moisture from the apples by patting them dry with a paper towel. This helps ensure that the apple chips will be crispy after cooking.

Once sliced, the apples are ready for seasoning and air frying.

Air fryer settings

To make apple chips in an air fryer, set the temperature to between 300 °F and 380 °F. The cooking time will vary depending on the number of apples and their thickness, but it should take between 10 and 25 minutes.

It is important to note that not all air fryers have the same wattage, so cooking times may differ. It is recommended to keep a close eye on the apple chips as they cook and adjust the temperature and timing as needed.

For the "drying" phase, set the air fryer to a lower temperature of around 300 °F for 20-30 minutes. For the "crisping" phase, increase the temperature to 325 °F for 4-8 minutes.

If your apple chips are burning, try reducing the temperature or slicing the apples thicker. Additionally, check the apple chips more frequently and use tongs to remove them from the air fryer one at a time as they are done.

To ensure even cooking and prevent burning, it is important to toss or flip the apple slices multiple times during the cooking process. It is also recommended to use a metal rack or trivet to keep the apple slices from flying around inside the air fryer.

The key to achieving the perfect crispiness is to allow the apple chips to cool down after cooking. They will continue to crisp up as they cool and are best enjoyed 10-20 minutes after removing them from the air fryer.

For optimal crispiness, it is recommended to consume the apple chips within a few hours of cooking, as they tend to lose their crispness over time. However, they can be stored in an airtight container or sealed bag at room temperature for up to a week.

Storing the apple chips

Storage Containers

Apple chips should be stored in an airtight container. You can use glass jars, plastic containers with tight-fitting lids, or even freezer bags. Make sure the container is clean and dry before adding the apple chips. If using a bag, squeeze out as much air as possible to create an airtight seal.

Storage Location

The best place to store apple chips is in a cool, dark, and dry area of your home. A pantry or cabinet away from direct sunlight and heat sources is ideal. The container should be placed in a spot with good air circulation to prevent moisture buildup. Avoid storing apple chips in hot or humid areas, as this can affect their texture and freshness.

Storage Duration

Apple chips can be stored at room temperature for up to five days. However, they are best consumed within the first day or two, as they tend to lose their crispness over time. If you want to enjoy the apple chips when they are at their crispiest, it is recommended to consume them within 10-20 minutes after they come out of the air fryer.

Moisture Control

Apple chips tend to absorb moisture from the air over time, which can make them soggy. To prevent this, you can include a moisture-absorbing desiccant packet in the storage container. This is especially useful if you anticipate opening the container frequently or if you live in an area with high humidity.

Long-Term Storage

If you have a large batch of apple chips and want to store them for an extended period, consider freezing them. Place the apple chips in a freezer bag, remove as much air as possible, seal tightly, and store them in the freezer. Frozen apple chips can last for several months.

Maintaining Crispness

Apple chips will gradually lose their crispness, even with proper storage. To restore some crispness, you can place them in the air fryer or oven at a low temperature for a few minutes. This will help remove any moisture and give them a crispier texture.

Storing Sweetened Apple Chips

If you have sweetened your apple chips with sugar or cinnamon, they may be more prone to sticking to the storage container. To prevent this, line the container with parchment paper or wax paper before adding the apple chips. Additionally, consume sweetened apple chips within a few days, as the sugar can make them soggy faster.

Frequently asked questions