A Fall Favorite Made Easy – Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Apple Chips
If you’ve ever wanted a snack that’s light, crunchy, and just sweet enough, these Air Fryer Apple Chips are it. They’re one of those recipes that make your kitchen smell incredible—like warm apples and cinnamon on a cool afternoon. I love making them when I’m craving something satisfying but don’t want to reach for store-bought chips or sugary snacks. They’re fast, wholesome, and made with just two ingredients you probably already have.
What You’ll Need for This Quick and Healthy Treat
There’s no need for fancy ingredients or long prep times here. All you need is:
Ingredients:
- 1 whole apple
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
You can use any apple variety, but I find that Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala work best. They’re naturally sweet and crisp beautifully.
Prepping Your Apples for the Perfect Crunch
Start by washing and drying your apple thoroughly—any wax or dirt can affect how it crisps up. Using a mandoline slicer (or a very sharp knife if you prefer), cut the apple into thin rounds about 1/8 inch thick. Try to keep the slices even so they cook at the same rate. If you like, you can core the apple first, but I personally enjoy the star-shaped center that appears when you leave it in.
Adding Flavor – The Cinnamon Sprinkle Step
Lay out the apple slices on a flat surface or a baking sheet. Sprinkle the ground cinnamon evenly over the top, then flip the slices and dust the other side lightly as well. A little goes a long way—too much cinnamon can make the chips slightly bitter. The moment the cinnamon hits the fresh apple, you’ll notice that cozy, spiced aroma that instantly feels like autumn.
Air Frying to Perfection – The Magic Happens Here
Place the apple slices in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Try not to overlap them; proper air circulation is what gives you that irresistible crispness. Set your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) and cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through.
Every air fryer is a little different, so keep an eye on them during the last couple of minutes. The edges should look golden and curled, but not burnt. When in doubt, err on the side of slightly undercooked—they’ll continue crisping as they cool.
Cooling and Crisping – The Final Touch
Once the chips are done, transfer them to a wire rack or plate and let them cool for about 5 minutes. This short resting time helps them firm up. For best results, let them sit for another 15–30 minutes—patience pays off here. You’ll hear that satisfying crunch when you bite into them.
Serving and Storing Your Homemade Apple Chips
These Air Fryer Apple Chips are perfect for snacking as-is, but they’re also amazing crumbled over yogurt, oatmeal, or even a salad for a little crunch. I love packing them in small jars or reusable bags for on-the-go munching.
To store, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay crisp for up to a week, but let’s be honest—they rarely last that long.
Flavor Twists and Fun Variations
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, try mixing it up:
- Sprinkle with a little nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a cozy seasonal twist.
- Add a light drizzle of honey or maple syrup before air frying for a sweeter version.
- Mix different apple varieties in one batch for a mix of textures and flavors.
Each variation gives you a slightly different take on this healthy snack—there’s really no wrong way to make them.
Nutrition Snapshot – Light, Wholesome, and Naturally Sweet
Each batch of these apple chips is naturally low in calories, fat-free, and full of fiber. You’re getting all the nutrients from the apple—especially if you leave the peel on. Cinnamon adds a hint of warmth and may even help regulate blood sugar levels. It’s a snack that tastes indulgent but feels completely guilt-free.
Quick Questions About Air Fryer Apple Chips
Why aren’t my apple chips crispy?
They may have been sliced too thick or overlapped in the basket. Make sure the slices are thin and cooked in a single layer.
Can I make these without cinnamon?
Absolutely! You can skip it or try other spices like ginger, cardamom, or even chili powder for a little kick.
Do I need to use oil?
No oil is needed for this recipe. The apples crisp up beautifully on their own in the air fryer.
Can I make a larger batch?
Yes, but cook them in batches so each slice gets enough airflow. Crowding the basket will lead to soft chips.
How do I re-crisp them if they get soft?
Just pop them back in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes at 350°F, and they’ll regain their crunch.
There’s something so satisfying about turning a single apple into a bowl of golden, crunchy chips. They’re the kind of snack that feels homemade, smells amazing, and disappears faster than you expect—proof that simple really is best.
