Air Fryer Cinnamon Apple Chips: A Quick, Healthy Treat

Cinnamon apple chips are a delicious and healthy snack that can be made in an air fryer. They are a great alternative to potato chips and can be made in a few simple steps. The recipe is easy to adapt and only requires a few basic ingredients.

Choosing the right apples

When making cinnamon apple chips in an air fryer, the best apples to use are those that are naturally sweet, such as:

• Honeycrisp
• Gala
• Piñata
• Pink Lady
• Red Delicious
• Golden Delicious
• Fuji

These apples will give your cinnamon apple chips a sweet taste without the need to add any sugar. If you prefer a tarter taste, Granny Smith apples are also a great option.

The type of apple you choose is important as the cooking process involves slowly dehydrating the apple slices, so you want an apple that holds up well in the air fryer. Golden Delicious and Gala apples, for example, work well and give you extra crispy chips.

You can also choose apples that are easily available and inexpensive, such as Red Delicious apples.

When making cinnamon apple chips, it's also important to slice the apples thinly and evenly. This will ensure that the apples cook evenly and become nice and crispy. A mandoline slicer can be helpful for achieving consistent and thin slices, but a sharp knife and a steady hand will also work!

Preparing the apples

First, wash your apples. You can use any type of apple you like, but some popular options include red delicious, honey crisp, gala, Fuji, and Pink Lady apples. You'll want to choose apples that are fresh and sweet, with just a hint of cinnamon flavor.

Next, slice the apples. The key to getting crispy apple chips is to slice the apples as thinly and evenly as possible, ideally about 1/8 inch thick. You can do this with a sharp knife, but a mandoline slicer will make the process much easier and ensure more consistent slices. There's no need to peel or core the apples first, but you can if you prefer. Just be aware that the thick skins can sometimes cause chewiness.

Once your apples are sliced, it's time to add the cinnamon. You can sprinkle ground cinnamon directly onto the apple slices, or mix it with a little sugar for a sweeter treat. Place the cinnamon-coated apple slices in a single layer on a flat surface or in a bowl.

If you want to get creative, you can experiment with other spices like nutmeg, ginger, or even a dash of honey, maple syrup, or vanilla extract. You can also try different types of fruit, like pears.

Finally, arrange the apple slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer, trying not to overlap them too much. If you have a metal rack or trivet, place it on top of the apples to keep them from flying around while cooking.

Now you're ready to start air-frying! Depending on your desired level of crispness, the apples will need to cook for 15-30 minutes at a temperature between 300-380 degrees Fahrenheit, flipping the apples every 5 minutes or so. Keep a close eye on them to make sure they don't burn, and remove any slices that are browning too quickly.

Seasoning the apples

Firstly, it is important to note that cinnamon is the most commonly used spice for this recipe, enhancing the natural sweetness of the apples. However, you can also experiment with other spices like nutmeg, ginger, or even a sprinkle of sugar if you prefer a sweeter flavour. A combination of cinnamon and sugar is a popular choice for a delightful sweet and spicy kick.

Before seasoning, it is recommended to wash and dry the apples thoroughly. Then, using a mandolin slicer or a sharp knife, cut the apples into thin slices, preferably about 1/8-inch thick. The thinner the slices, the crispier the chips will be. You can also remove the cores and seeds, but it is not necessary as they will fall out during slicing or cooking.

Once the apples are sliced, it's time to add the seasoning. Place the apple slices in a single layer on a flat surface or in a bowl. For a basic cinnamon seasoning, sprinkle ground cinnamon generously over the apple slices. Ensure you coat both sides of the slices evenly. You can also mix the cinnamon with other spices, such as nutmeg or ginger, for an extra kick of flavour.

If you prefer a sweeter chip, you can create a cinnamon-sugar mixture by combining equal parts cinnamon and sugar. Sprinkle this mixture over the apple slices, ensuring an even coating. Alternatively, you can use brown sugar or maple syrup for a similar effect.

For a more complex flavour profile, you can explore other spices and seasonings. Pumpkin pie spice or apple pie spice, for example, can add a delightful autumnal twist to your chips. You could also try cardamom or a pinch of salt to enhance the natural sweetness of the apples.

After seasoning, give the apples a light spray with coconut oil or another cooking oil of your choice. This step will help the seasoning adhere to the apples and promote even cooking.

Remember, the key to successful seasoning is to trust your taste buds and experiment with different combinations. Don't be afraid to adjust the amounts of spices and sweeteners to find the perfect balance for your palate.

Air frying the apples

Once your apples are sliced, it's time to add some flavour. You can sprinkle the apple slices with ground cinnamon, and some recipes also suggest adding a teaspoon of sugar or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness. You can also spray or brush the apple slices with coconut oil at this stage.

Now it's time to arrange the apples in the air fryer. Place them in a single layer, trying not to overlap the slices too much. Overlapping may prevent even cooking and crisping. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the apples in batches. Cover the apple slices with a metal rack or trivet to prevent them from flying around during cooking.

Set your air fryer to 300°F and cook the apples for around 15 minutes, flipping them every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking. Some recipes suggest increasing the temperature to 330°F for the last 8-12 minutes of cooking to achieve a crispier texture. Keep a close eye on the apples during cooking, as you don't want them to burn.

Once the apples are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool. They will continue to crisp up as they cool, so don't be tempted to put them back in the air fryer if they seem a little soft. Enjoy your delicious, healthy snack!

Storing the apple chips

Firstly, it is crucial to let the apple chips cool down completely before storing them. If they are still warm, they will release steam and condensation, leading to sogginess in the container. Place the chips on a wire rack or a plate to cool down. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.

Once the chips are cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. You can also use a ziplock bag or a sealed jar. Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the container or bag before sealing. This step is essential to maintain crispiness and prolong the shelf life of the apple chips.

The ideal storage temperature for the cinnamon apple chips is room temperature. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator as the moisture can make them soggy. Aim to store the chips in a cool, dry, and dark place, such as a pantry or kitchen cabinet.

Properly stored apple chips can last for about 3-4 days at room temperature. However, they will gradually lose their crispiness over time, so it is best to consume them within a few days of preparation. If you live in a humid area, consider adding a moisture-absorbing desiccant packet to the container for extended freshness.

Additionally, you can explore long-term storage options if you want to send the chips as a gift or care package. Vacuum sealing is an excellent way to prolong the shelf life of the apple chips. Alternatively, use a heavy-duty zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.

In summary, storing cinnamon apple chips requires allowing them to cool, using airtight containers, maintaining room temperature, and minimizing exposure to moisture. By following these steps, you can enjoy your delicious and crispy homemade cinnamon apple chips for several days!

Frequently asked questions