Let me tell you about my favorite little kitchen hack – air fryer apple chips! These crispy, sweet-tart rounds have saved me from countless snack emergencies. I first discovered them when my kids were begging for chips, and I needed something healthier than the usual bag of salty snacks. Now? They’re my go-to when apples start piling up on the counter. The best part? With just apples, cinnamon, and a few minutes in the air fryer, you get this magical transformation—like nature’s candy, but way better for you. Trust me, once you try homemade apple chips still warm from the fryer, the store-bought kind just won’t cut it anymore.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Apple Chips
Here’s the beautiful simplicity of this recipe – just a few basic ingredients transform into something extraordinary. You’ll need:
- 2 medium apples (I love using Granny Smith for their tartness or Honeycrisp for natural sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (the real magic dust)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, but I like the extra crunch it creates)
That’s it! No fancy ingredients, no complicated shopping list. Sometimes the best snacks come from the simplest combinations. Just make sure your apples are firm – soft ones won’t give you those perfect crispy chips we’re after.
Equipment You’ll Need
Honestly, all you really need is your trusty air fryer—that’s the star here. But if you want those slices extra-perfect (and to save time), a mandoline slicer works wonders. No fancy gadgets? A sharp knife and steady hand will do just fine!
How to Make Air Fryer Apple Chips
Okay, let’s get to the fun part – turning those apples into crispy, heavenly chips! I’ve made this recipe dozens of times (sometimes twice in one day when the kids are extra snacky), and I’ve learned all the little tricks to get them perfect every time.
Preparing the Apples
First things first – give those apples a good wash. Even if they look clean, you never know what’s been on them. I like to leave the skins on for extra nutrients and that beautiful rustic look. Core them (a simple apple corer works great here), then slice them about 1/8-inch thick. This is where a mandoline slicer becomes your best friend – it gives you perfectly even slices that cook at the same rate. No mandoline? No problem! Just take your time with a sharp knife.
Seasoning the Slices
Now for the flavor boost! In a big bowl, gently toss your apple slices with cinnamon until they’re all lightly coated. This is where I sometimes add that optional teaspoon of sugar – it caramelizes slightly in the air fryer, giving the chips an extra crunch. But honestly, they’re delicious with just cinnamon too!
Air Frying the Chips
Here’s the golden rule: don’t crowd your air fryer basket! Arrange your slices in a single layer with a little space between them – they need room for the air to circulate. I usually do batches, even though I’m impatient, because it makes all the difference. Cook at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Watch them closely toward the end – they can go from perfect to burnt real quick!
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Apple Chips
Here’s what I’ve learned after many batches (and a few burnt ones, let’s be honest):
- Firm apples only! Soft ones turn mushy instead of crisp. My favorites are Granny Smith and Honeycrisp – they hold up beautifully.
- Check early and often in the last few minutes. Apples can burn in the blink of an eye once they start crisping.
- Let them cool completely before you dig in. They crisp up more as they cool – it’s worth the wait!
- Thinner slices crisp better – aim for that magical 1/8-inch thickness.
Follow these simple tricks, and you’ll have perfect apple chips every single time!
Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, have fun experimenting! A pinch of nutmeg pairs beautifully with the cinnamon for a spiced version. Feeling adventurous? A tiny sprinkle of cayenne adds a sweet-heat kick. My kids love when I mix cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice – it tastes like autumn in every crispy bite!
Serving and Storage
Here’s the hardest part – letting these beauties cool before diving in! I know it’s tempting, but trust me, that 5-minute wait makes all the difference. The chips crisp up perfectly as they cool. Store any leftovers (if you have any!) in an airtight container. They’ll stay deliciously crunchy for up to 3 days – if they last that long in your house!
Nutritional Information
Let’s be real – we’re not eating apple chips for their nutritional content (we’re eating them because they’re delicious!), but isn’t it nice when a tasty snack is actually good for you too? Keep in mind these values are estimates per serving and will vary slightly based on your apple variety and whether you use the optional sugar:
- Calories: About 80
- Sugar: 15g (all natural from the apples!)
- Fiber: 3g
- Fat: 0g
Not too shabby for a snack that satisfies your crunchy cravings, right?
Common Questions About Air Fryer Apple Chips
I’ve gotten so many questions from friends trying this recipe – let me share the answers to the ones that come up most often!
Can I use other types of apples? Absolutely! While I love Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for their texture, Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady work great too. Just avoid super juicy varieties like Red Delicious – they tend to stay chewy rather than crisp up nicely.
Why aren’t my chips getting crispy? Three likely culprits: slices are too thick, the air fryer’s overcrowded, or they need more time. Try thinner slices (that 1/8-inch is key!), cook in smaller batches, and add a minute or two if needed.
Do I really need to flip them halfway? I know it’s tempting to skip this step, but flipping ensures even crispness on both sides. Think of it as giving each slice its moment to shine!
Can I make these without sugar? Of course! The apples are naturally sweet, and the cinnamon adds plenty of flavor. My kids don’t even notice when I leave the sugar out.
Final Thoughts
Go grab those apples and fire up your air fryer – you’re about to fall in love with this ridiculously easy snack! Tag me when you make them so I can see your crispy creations. Happy air frying!
Print
Crispy Air Fryer Apple Chips in Just 10 Minutes
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Make crispy apple chips in your air fryer with just a few simple ingredients. A healthy and delicious snack.
Ingredients
- 2 medium apples
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Wash and thinly slice the apples.
- Toss the slices with cinnamon and sugar (if using).
- Arrange slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
- Slice apples evenly for consistent cooking.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: air fryer apple chips, healthy snack, apple chips recipe