If you’ve ever craved a snack that’s sweet, crunchy, and just a little bit magical, this Air Fryer Apple Chips with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. There’s something simply irresistible about those thin, crispy apple slices dusted with warm cinnamon sugar—each bite bursting with cozy flavors and just the right balance of natural tartness and sweetness. Plus, making these apple chips in the air fryer means they’re perfectly crispy without any greasy mess or hours of baking, making this treat as easy as it is addictive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe keeps things wonderfully simple but never compromises on flavor. Each component plays a key role, from the bright crispness of the apples to the aromatic touch of cinnamon that brings the whole snack together perfectly.
- 2 medium apples: Choose Fuji for a sweeter chip or Granny Smith for a tart kick, and make sure they’re firm for ideal slicing and crunch.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: This sprinkles in just the right amount of sweetness to balance the apples’ natural tartness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm spice that makes every bite feel like a cozy hug.
- A pinch of salt (optional): Enhances the flavors and keeps the sweetness from being one-note.
How to Make Air Fryer Apple Chips with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Begin by washing and drying the apples thoroughly to remove any wax or residue. Using a mandolin slicer or a very sharp knife, slice the apples as thinly as you can—about 1/8 inch thick is perfect. Thinner slices mean crispier chips! If you prefer, remove the core and seeds to make eating easier, but it’s not required.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Sugar
While your apples are ready, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. This cinnamon sugar blend is what transforms simple apple slices into that addictive snack you’ll want to munch on all day.
Step 3: Coat the Apple Slices
Lay the apple slices out on a clean surface and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly on both sides. For a more thorough coating, toss the apple slices in a bowl with the cinnamon sugar to make sure every bite is flavorful and sweet.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Allow it to come up to temperature for about 3-5 minutes to ensure that your apple slices start crisping immediately once inside.
Step 5: Air Fry the Apple Chips
Arrange the coated apple slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid stacking or overlapping, as this can prevent crisping. Depending on your air fryer’s size, you may need to work in batches. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through the cooking process. Watch carefully toward the end to avoid burning—golden brown and crispy is what you’re after.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
After air frying, transfer the apple chips to a wire rack or plate to cool. They’ll crisp up even more as they cool down, so resist the urge to taste immediately. Serve them right away for the best texture, or store in an airtight container if you want to enjoy them later. This Air Fryer Apple Chips with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe is perfect any time you want a convenient, wholesome snack.
How to Serve Air Fryer Apple Chips with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe
Garnishes
Try sprinkling a little extra cinnamon sugar on top right before serving to boost the flavor kick. You can also drizzle a touch of honey or maple syrup for those really indulgent moments. A sprinkle of finely chopped nuts adds a pleasant crunch and a hint of earthiness if you’d like to experiment.
Side Dishes
These apple chips shine beautifully alongside a creamy yogurt dip or a nut butter spread like almond or peanut butter. They also complement a cheese board wonderfully, adding a sweet contrast to sharp or salty cheeses like sharp cheddar or aged gouda.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, layer apple chips in clear glass jars or small bowls to highlight their beautiful golden color with cinnamon streaks. You can also use them as a festive topping on oatmeal, smoothie bowls, or even ice cream to add crunch and flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any apple chips left over, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Keeping air and moisture out is key to maintaining their crunch. Try to enjoy within a week for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
While freezing is not ideal for apple chips because they can lose their crispness, if needed, place them in a freezer-safe bag with as much air removed as possible. Allow to thaw at room temperature and re-crisp in the air fryer for a minute or two before serving.
Reheating
To enjoy your apple chips after storing, simply pop them back into the air fryer at 325°F (160°C) for 2 to 3 minutes. This freshens them up beautifully without overcooking or burning, bringing back that delightful crunch you crave.
FAQs
Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Fuji and Granny Smith are popular choices for their contrasting sweetness and tartness, most apples will work. Just make sure they are firm to get the best crispy texture.
Do I need to peel the apples before slicing?
Peeling is optional. Leaving the skin on adds color, fiber, and nutrients, plus it gives the chips a lovely rustic look and extra crunch.
What if I don’t have a mandolin slicer?
You can finely slice the apples with a sharp knife, but try to keep the thickness uniform—about 1/8 inch—to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
How long do the apple chips last?
Stored properly in an airtight container, these apple chips stay fresh and crispy for up to a week. It’s best to consume them sooner for optimal crunch.
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
You can bake the apple slices in a regular oven at 225°F (110°C) for 1.5 to 2 hours, flipping halfway through. However, the air fryer speeds up the process and gives a perfectly even crispness that’s hard to beat.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Apple Chips with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe truly feels like a little bit of autumn magic you can make any day of the year. It’s simple, delicious, and wonderfully versatile—a perfect snack for yourself or to share. Once you try it, I guarantee these crisp, sweet, and spiced apple chips will become a beloved staple in your snack rotation. So grab those apples and your air fryer, and let the cozy snacking begin!
Print
Air Fryer Apple Chips with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 15-17 minutes
- Yield: 2-2.2 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy and delicious Air Fryer Apple Chips coated with a fragrant cinnamon sugar mixture. These healthy snacks are quick to prepare, naturally sweet, and perfect for satisfying your crunchy cravings without added preservatives or artificial flavors.
Ingredients
Apples
- 2 medium apples (any variety, such as Fuji or Granny Smith)
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- A pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the apples: Wash and dry the apples thoroughly. Using a mandolin slicer or a sharp knife, slice the apples very thinly (about 1/8 inch thick). Remove the core and seeds if desired to ensure uniform slices and easy eating.
- Make the cinnamon sugar: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt if using. Mix well to create an even cinnamon sugar blend that will coat the apple slices.
- Coat the apple slices: Lay the apple slices out on a clean surface or place them in a bowl, then lightly sprinkle or toss them with the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring both sides of each apple slice are evenly coated.
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for approximately 3 to 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Air fry the apple chips: Arrange the cinnamon-sugar coated apple slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overlap. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook in batches. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through to promote even crisping, and watch closely to prevent any burning.
- Cool and serve: Remove the apple chips from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a few minutes. As they cool, they will crisp up further. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use a mandolin slicer for uniformly thin apple slices and consistent crisping.
- Flip the apple slices halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and texture.
- Keep a close eye on the apple chips during air frying as cooking times may vary based on air fryer models and apple slice thickness.
- For an extra touch, try sprinkling a little extra cinnamon after cooking for enhanced flavor.
- Store completely cooled apple chips in an airtight container to retain crispiness and avoid moisture buildup.
