If you’re hunting for a snack that’s a little bit sweet, perfectly crisp, and surprisingly guilt-free, Air Fryer Apple Chips with Cinnamon Sugar are about to become your new obsession! Imagine thinly sliced apples, kissed with a cozy mix of cinnamon and sugar, magically transformed in the air fryer into crunchy, irresistible chips. They’re a hit with kids, a winner for hungry adults, and so ridiculously easy, you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried making them sooner. Trust me, after your first bite, these apple chips will become your go-to for all-day snacking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Just a handful of pantry staples stand between you and a bowl of warm, cinnamon-scented apple chips. Each of these simple ingredients plays an important role, delivering flavor, crunch, and vibrant color with every batch.
- Apples (2 large, Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Choose apples that are crisp and slightly tart—they’ll hold their shape best and deliver a satisfying crunch.
- Lemon Juice (1 tsp): A quick toss with lemon juice keeps the apple slices from turning brown, and adds a hint of brightness.
- Granulated Sugar (1 tbsp): Just enough sugar to enhance the natural sweetness of the apples without overwhelming them.
- Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp): Warm, fragrant cinnamon brings all the cozy autumn vibes to your chips, no matter the season!
How to Make Air Fryer Apple Chips with Cinnamon Sugar
Step 1: Slice the Apples Thinly
Begin by washing and coring your apples, then slice them as thinly as possible—about ⅛ inch thick is perfect. Using a mandoline makes this step quick and ensures every chip is evenly crisp, but a sharp knife will do the trick in a pinch. Uniform slices are key for getting that even, irresistible crunch in these Air Fryer Apple Chips with Cinnamon Sugar.
Step 2: Prevent Browning
No one wants a batch of brown, sad-looking chips! As soon as you slice the apples, gently toss the pieces with lemon juice in a large bowl. This quick step keeps your chips looking fresh and vibrant, adding a subtle brightness to balance the sweet and spicy flavors.
Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mix
In a small dish, whisk together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This aromatic blend will stick beautifully to every apple slice, giving each chip that sweet, fragrant pop we all crave.
Step 4: Coat the Apple Slices
Sprinkle your cinnamon sugar mix all over the apple slices, tossing gently to make sure every bit is evenly coated. Don’t be shy—use your hands to massage in that delicious mixture, so each chip gets an even layer of flavor. Nothing should go to waste in this batch of Air Fryer Apple Chips with Cinnamon Sugar!
Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 300°F (150°C) and let it preheat for three minutes. This short preheat helps the chips start crisping right away, making sure they turn out golden and crunchy every time.
Step 6: Air Fry Until Crisp
Arrange the coated apple slices in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd—give them space! Air fry for 15–20 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through. Keep a close eye during the last few minutes; the line between crisp and burnt is a thin one. They’ll be golden and crisp when ready, sending a sweet, cinnamon aroma through your kitchen.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Transfer your freshly air fried chips to a wire rack and let them cool completely. This is the secret step for maximum crunch! The chips actually crisp up further as they cool. Once they’re fully cooled, dig in and enjoy every sweet crunch of your Air Fryer Apple Chips with Cinnamon Sugar!
How to Serve Air Fryer Apple Chips with Cinnamon Sugar
Garnishes
Give your Air Fryer Apple Chips with Cinnamon Sugar a little extra flair by dusting them with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or adding a drizzle of caramel. For a grown-up twist, a touch of flaky sea salt or even a hint more cinnamon can make the flavors pop!
Side Dishes
Serve your chips alongside a creamy dip—vanilla Greek yogurt or honey cream cheese are dreamy partners. They’re also wonderful next to a hot cup of tea or chai for a cozy afternoon snack. These apple chips can even take oatmeal or morning yogurt bowls to the next level!
Creative Ways to Present
Pile the chips into mason jars with ribbons for an adorable homemade gift, or arrange them on a pretty platter for a party snack that looks as good as it tastes. For family movie night, tuck them into paper cones for easy, mess-free munching. Air Fryer Apple Chips with Cinnamon Sugar are as versatile as they are delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store your apple chips in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and crisp for up to five days—perfect for snack cravings throughout the week! If they start to lose their crunch, just pop them back into the air fryer for a minute or two.
Freezing
While apple chips are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them in a pinch. Stack them with parchment paper between layers and place in a sealed freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature and re-crisp briefly in the air fryer before serving to restore that addictive crunch.
Reheating
To revive apple chips that have softened, simply air fry them at 250°F (120°C) for 2–3 minutes. Let them cool afterward, and they’ll be as crunchy as when they first came out of the basket.
FAQs
Can I use other apple varieties besides Granny Smith or Honeycrisp?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp offer the best balance of tartness and crunch, feel free to try Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady. Just remember, moisture content and sweetness may vary, so adjust your cooking time if needed.
How do I get the slices evenly thin without a mandoline?
A sharp knife will work if you take your time—aim for even ⅛ inch slices. Stack several apple slices to cut at once for more consistent results, but be extra careful with your fingers!
What should I do if my apple chips aren’t crisping up?
If your Air Fryer Apple Chips with Cinnamon Sugar are still flexible after cooling, pop them back into the air fryer in short intervals (2–3 minutes at a time) until the desired crispness returns. Make sure to let them cool fully before judging the texture, as they continue to crisp as they cool.
Is it possible to make these chips without any added sugar?
Definitely! If you’d like a naturally sweet snack, you can skip the sugar and use just cinnamon, or sprinkle with a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit. The apple’s own sweetness still shines through after air frying.
Do I need to peel the apples before slicing?
It’s completely up to you! Leaving the peels on adds color, extra fiber, and a pleasant chew. Peeling them results in an extra-delicate chip, so choose what suits your taste and presentation.
Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Apple Chips with Cinnamon Sugar are simply too delicious (and easy!) not to try. Whether you’re snacking solo or sharing with friends, the aroma alone is worth making them at least once. Go ahead—grab your apples and let your air fryer work its magic. Happy snacking!