Are you craving a delicious and easy snack that satisfies your sweet tooth without a lot of fuss? Look no further! These homemade cinnamon sugar chips are the perfect treat. Crispy, sweet, and incredibly addictive, they're easier to make than you think and far healthier than store-bought options. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick after-school snack, a movie night treat, or even a delightful addition to your next dessert platter. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade, healthy deliciousness!
Ingredients:
- 2 large apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Apples:
Wash and thoroughly dry your apples. Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, slice the apples thinly and evenly. Aim for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick for optimal crispness. Removing the core is not necessary as long as you avoid any overly bruised or damaged areas.
Step 2: Create the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Mix well to ensure the cinnamon is evenly distributed. If using, add the melted butter and stir until combined.
Step 3: Coat the Apple Slices:
Add the apple slices to the cinnamon-sugar mixture, gently tossing to coat each slice evenly. Make sure all the apple slices are well coated to ensure even flavor and browning.
Step 4: Bake the Chips:
Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the coated apple slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don't overlap. This is crucial for even baking and crispiness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection:
Bake for 1-2 hours, or until the apple chips are completely dehydrated and crispy. Check them after an hour, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the thickness of your apple slices.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy:
Once the apple chips are baked to your liking, carefully remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cool, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Tips for the Best Cinnamon Sugar Chips:
- Apple Selection: Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness and ability to hold their shape during baking. Honeycrisp apples also work well, offering a sweeter flavor profile.
- Even Slicing: Thinly sliced apples are key to achieving crispy chips. Use a mandoline slicer for consistent results.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding will lead to steaming rather than crisping. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar to your preference. You can also experiment with other spices like nutmeg or cardamom.
Variations:
- Spiced Apple Chips: Add a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or ginger to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a warmer, more complex flavor.
- Apple Pie Chips: Mix in a teaspoon of apple pie spice for a classic autumnal taste.
- Sweet and Salty: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the cinnamon sugar mixture for a delightful sweet and salty combination.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 50-70 calories (depending on apple size and amount of sugar used).
- Fiber: Good source of dietary fiber.
- Vitamins: Contains vitamin C and other essential nutrients.
These homemade cinnamon sugar chips are a guilt-free indulgence, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings with a healthy and delicious snack. Enjoy!