Baked Apple Chips are a wholesome, delicious alternative to store-bought snacks—perfect for packing in lunchboxes or enjoying after school. Made with just apples and a touch of optional cinnamon, these chips are naturally sweet, crisp, and satisfying without added sugars or preservatives. They’re easy to make in batches and offer a fun, healthy way to enjoy fruit in a new form.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 2 large apples (any variety, such as Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Wash and core the apples, then slice them as thinly as possible using a sharp knife or mandoline (about 1/8 inch thick).
- Arrange the apple slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets, making sure they do not overlap.
- Sprinkle the slices lightly with ground cinnamon if desired.
- Bake for 1 hour, then flip the slices and bake for another 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until dry and crisp.
- Turn off the oven and let the apple chips cool inside the oven for about 30 minutes to help them crisp up fully.
- Once completely cool, store the chips in an airtight container for up to one week.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 95
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 0mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 19g (naturally occurring)
- Protein: 0g
- Vitamin C: 8% DV
- Potassium: 195mg
- Calcium: 1% DV
- Iron: 1% DV
Naturally Sweet and Wholesome
Baked Apple Chips are an excellent example of how simple, whole foods can transform into a crunchy, satisfying snack without the need for additives. These chips are naturally sweet thanks to the fructose in apples, making them a healthier substitute for store-bought potato chips or sugary packaged snacks. Since no added sugar is required, the natural flavor of the apple is allowed to shine, making it a favorite for those who want a clean-eating option for themselves or their kids.
Ideal for School Lunchboxes
When packing snacks for school, many parents aim for options that are both mess-free and nutritious. Baked Apple Chips check both boxes. Their dry, crisp texture ensures no sticky fingers or spills, and they’re allergy-friendly—making them safe to send even to nut-free classrooms. Because they travel well without refrigeration, they are perfect for lunchboxes or snack bags, giving children a tasty treat that supports good nutrition and sustained energy.
Customizable with Spices and Flavorings
While cinnamon is the most common spice paired with apple chips, this snack offers endless flavor possibilities. You can try a dusting of pumpkin pie spice for fall flair, a touch of nutmeg for warmth, or even a bit of cayenne for a spicy kick. For a more dessert-like experience, consider a light sprinkle of vanilla bean powder. The flexibility to alter flavors means you can keep this snack fresh and exciting without changing the core ingredients or preparation.
Low-Calorie, High-Fiber Snacking
Baked Apple Chips are not only delicious—they’re also a smart choice for those watching their calorie intake. With only around 95 calories per serving, they offer a satisfying crunch with none of the guilt. The high fiber content (especially if made with the peels on) supports digestion and helps regulate blood sugar. This makes them ideal for both adults and children looking for a snack that promotes fullness and steady energy levels between meals.
Fun and Educational for Kids
Making apple chips can be a fun, hands-on activity to do with children. Letting kids help with slicing (with supervision or a kid-safe slicer) or sprinkling cinnamon can spark interest in healthy eating. Watching the apple slices transform in the oven into crispy chips is also a fascinating process that can teach patience and appreciation for homemade food. This involvement often leads to increased willingness to try and enjoy healthy snacks.
Great Use for Surplus Apples
During peak apple season or after a visit to the orchard, it’s common to have more apples than you can eat fresh. Baked Apple Chips are an excellent way to use up a surplus before the fruit spoils. Slightly bruised or soft apples also work well in this recipe, as the baking process draws out the flavor and moisture, transforming imperfect fruit into something special. It’s a cost-effective and sustainable way to reduce food waste while creating a shelf-stable snack.
Pairing Suggestions for Balanced Snacking
Baked Apple Chips pair well with a variety of other wholesome foods to create a well-rounded snack or mini meal. Serve them alongside a small container of nut butter or seed butter for protein and healthy fats. They also taste great with a handful of roasted nuts, a wedge of cheese, or a scoop of Greek yogurt. These pairings make the chips part of a balanced snack that combines carbohydrates, protein, and fat for sustained energy and satiety.
Shelf Life and Storage Tips
Once cooled completely, Baked Apple Chips should be stored in an airtight container to maintain their crispness. They will keep for up to a week at room temperature, provided they are kept dry. If they begin to soften, a quick re-bake in the oven for 5–10 minutes can restore their crunch. For long-term storage, some people choose to vacuum seal them or use moisture-absorbing packets to extend freshness. Just ensure they are entirely moisture-free before sealing to avoid spoilage.
Dietary-Friendly and Allergen-Free
Baked Apple Chips cater to a wide range of dietary needs. They are naturally vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, dairy-free, and contain no added sugar, making them accessible to those with common allergies or dietary restrictions. This versatility makes them a safe, inclusive snack for group settings, whether at school, work, or community events. Their simplicity makes it easy to integrate them into almost any diet plan, from paleo to plant-based lifestyles.
Perfect for Gifting and Homemade Snack Packs
Because of their simplicity and visual appeal, Baked Apple Chips also make charming homemade gifts. Packaged in small jars, tins, or cellophane bags tied with ribbon, they offer a thoughtful and health-conscious alternative to candy or cookies. They also work wonderfully in DIY snack packs—combine them with dried cranberries, roasted seeds, or dark chocolate chips for a delicious and nutrient-dense trail mix that’s great for both kids and adults.
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Affordable and Easy to Prepare
Unlike many specialized health snacks that require expensive ingredients or gadgets, Baked Apple Chips can be made with just apples and a standard oven. There’s no need for a dehydrator or exotic seasonings—just basic tools like a baking sheet and parchment paper. Since apples are affordable and widely available year-round, this snack can easily become part of your regular food prep routine without breaking the grocery budget.
Conclusion
Baked Apple Chips offer a perfect combination of simplicity, nutrition, and flavor, making them a standout snack for busy families, health enthusiasts, and food lovers alike. Their natural sweetness, portability, and versatility ensure they’ll become a staple in lunchboxes and pantries throughout the school year and beyond.