Air Fryer Apple Chips: A Quick, Easy, And Healthy Treat

Air fryers are a great way to make apple chips, offering a healthier alternative to potato chips. They're a quick and easy snack that can be seasoned with cinnamon, sugar, or nutmeg. The apples should be sliced thinly and evenly, and then cooked for around 10-20 minutes, depending on the recipe. The chips will continue to crisp up as they cool, and can be stored in an airtight container for a few days.

Choosing the right apples

Sweetness

It is generally recommended to use sweet apples for making apple chips. Varieties such as Red Delicious, Gala, Fuji, Honeycrisp, and Pink Lady are often suggested for their sweetness and availability. These apples will give your chips a nice balance of flavours without being too tart. However, if you prefer a tarter taste, Granny Smith apples can also be used.

Texture

The texture of the apple is another important consideration. For apple chips, you'll want to choose apples that are crisp and crunchy. This will help ensure that your chips turn out crispy and have a satisfying bite. Apples that are softer or mealy may not hold up as well during the air-frying process.

Thickness of Slices

To get the perfect apple chip thickness, it's best to use a mandoline slicer or a very sharp knife. Aim for slices that are thin and uniform in size, about 1/8 inch (3mm) thick. Thinner slices will result in crispier chips. If using a knife, take your time to get the slices as even as possible so they cook evenly.

Peeling and Coring

Whether or not to peel and core the apples is a matter of personal preference. Leaving the peel on adds texture and nutrients, while peeling them will result in a smoother texture. Similarly, coring the apples will give them a donut shape, while leaving the cores in will create a fun star shape in the middle. Both ways are perfectly fine, and it's up to your preference.

Spicing Options

While cinnamon is a popular choice for apple chips, you can also experiment with other spices like nutmeg, ginger, or even a sprinkle of sugar for added sweetness. Get creative and try out different combinations to find your favourite flavour profile. You can also try more exotic spices like ground cloves, anise, or cardamom for a unique twist.

In summary, when choosing apples for making air fryer apple chips, opt for sweet, crisp varieties like Red Delicious, Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp. Use a mandoline or sharp knife to slice them thinly and uniformly, and feel free to experiment with different spices to find your favourite flavour. Happy snacking!

Preparing the apples

Firstly, select your apples. It is recommended to use sweet, crunchy apples such as Fuji, Gala, Honeycrisp, or Red Delicious. You can also use Pink Lady apples, which are a personal favourite for many. It is best to avoid Granny Smith apples as this recipe works better with sweeter varieties.

Next, wash and dry your apples. This step is important to ensure that your apples are clean and ready for slicing.

Now, it's time to slice the apples. You can use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife for this step. If using a mandoline, set it to the thinnest setting (around 2.5mm or 3mm) to get the apples as thin as possible. This will ensure a better crunch. If using a knife, aim for slices that are about 1/8th of an inch thick. Be very careful when slicing the apples, as it can be easy to cut yourself. Remove any seeds that may be present. There is no need to core the apples, but you can do so if you prefer. Leaving the core in will result in a fun star shape in the middle of your apple chips.

At this point, you can decide whether to leave the skin on or peel the apples. Leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients, while peeling them will result in a smoother texture. If you are using a mandoline, it is important to follow the safety guidelines and always use the guard to prevent accidents.

Once your apples are sliced, it's time to add some flavour. You can sprinkle a teaspoon of ground cinnamon on the apple slices, or you can get creative and experiment with other spices like nutmeg, ginger, or even a sprinkle of sugar or pumpkin pie spice for a fall-inspired treat. You can also add a teaspoon of sugar to the cinnamon for a sweeter apple chip. Toss the apples with the spices until they are evenly coated.

Finally, place the spiced apple slices in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer with minimal overlap. You may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, there may be some overlap, but try to keep it to a minimum to ensure even cooking.

Now your apples are prepared and ready for the next step – cooking them in the air fryer!

Air-frying the apples

Next, you'll want to add your chosen spices to the apple slices. Cinnamon is a popular choice, but you can also experiment with nutmeg, ginger, or a sprinkle of sugar or cinnamon sugar for a sweeter flavor. Some recipes also suggest coating the apple slices with a small amount of coconut oil or olive oil, which can help the spices stick to the apples.

Now you're ready to air fry! Place the apple slices in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer with minimal overlap. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the apples in batches. Set the temperature to between 300-380 degrees Fahrenheit, and cook for 8-20 minutes, flipping the apples every 5 minutes or halfway through. The apples are done when they are golden brown and almost crispy.

Once the apples are done, remove them from the air fryer and place them on a cooling rack or plate. They will continue to crisp up as they cool, so let them sit for at least 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade apple chips!

Storing the apple chips

Cooling the Chips:

Before storing your apple chips, it is crucial to let them cool completely. Place the chips on a plate or a cooling rack and let them sit for at least 5-10 minutes. During this time, the chips will continue to crisp up as they release excess moisture. This step is essential because storing warm chips can lead to condensation, making them soggy.

Choosing the Right Container:

For storing your apple chips, it is best to use an airtight container. A glass mason jar or a ziplock bag can also work well. Ensure that the container is dry and clean before adding the apple chips. If using a ziplock bag, squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing it.

Storing at Room Temperature:

The ideal storage location for your apple chips is at room temperature. Place the container in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or kitchen cabinet. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as the moisture in the fridge can make the chips soggy and ruin their texture.

Shelf Life and Consumption:

Your homemade apple chips will typically stay fresh and crispy for 3-4 days at room temperature. However, some sources suggest they can last up to 7-10 days. It's important to consume them within this timeframe for the best taste and texture. If you notice any signs of spoilage, discard the chips immediately.

Maintaining Crispness:

Apple chips tend to lose their crispness over time, even when stored properly. To prolong their crunchiness, consider the following tips:

• Thinner slices: The thinner your apple slices, the crispier they will be, and the longer they will stay crispy during storage.
• Single layer: When placing the apple slices in the air fryer, ensure they are in a single layer with minimal overlap. This maximizes the exposure of their surface area to the hot air, resulting in a crunchier texture.
• Airtight storage: Ensure your container is airtight to prevent moisture from getting in and softening the chips.
• Consume promptly: Apple chips are best enjoyed fresh. The longer they sit, the softer they may become. For optimal crispness, it is recommended to consume them within a day or two of preparation.

Serving suggestions

Air fryer apple chips are a great snack and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas for serving these delicious treats:

• As a healthy snack on their own.
• With a dip of your choice.
• As a topping for oatmeal or breakfast granola.
• Sprinkled on a salad for some added crunch.
• As part of a fancy snack plate, paired with some cheese.
• In your kids' lunchboxes.
• As an after-school snack.
• With peanut butter.

These apple chips are a versatile and nutritious treat that can be enjoyed by the whole family!

Frequently asked questions