Air Fryer Apple Chips With Cinnamon Sugar

I love finding snacks that feel indulgent without overdoing it, and these apple chips strike that balance. Thinly sliced apples, a dusting of cinnamon and sugar, and a quick spin in the air fryer delivers crisp, golden chips in under 20 minutes.

This recipe came from browsing healthy snack discussions—I adjusted the sugar ratio, tried different apple types, and landed on a version that hits every note: sweet, tangy, fragrant, and satisfying. It’s become my favorite afternoon pick‑me‑up or a guilt‑free treat after dinner.

What makes this special is its simplicity. No deep-frying. No complicated steps. Just fresh fruit, a little spice, and an appliance that does most of the work. The result? Snackable chips that feel fresh and homemade.

Short Description

Air Fryer Apple Chips With Cinnamon Sugar are thin slices of apple lightly coated in cinnamon-sugar and air-fried until crisp—a wholesome, naturally sweet snack perfect for busy days or cozy evenings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and easy—ready in under 20 minutes
• Naturally gluten-free and vegan (swap sugar as needed)
• Low‑calorie guilt‑free alternative to cookies
• Portable, kid-friendly, and perfect for lunchboxes
• Versatile—use your favorite apples or spices

Ingredients

• 2 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)
• Optional: a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for warmth
• Cooking spray or a light brush of oil (to help spices stick)

Tools Needed

• Air fryer
• Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
• Small bowl for cinnamon sugar mix
• Baking tray or paper towels for cooling
• Measuring spoons

Directions

Step 1: Prep Apple Slices
Core and slice apples as thin as possible (about ⅛-inch) using a mandoline or sharp knife. Lay them in a single layer on a clean towel to pat dry briefly.

Step 2: Mix Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, stir together cinnamon, sugar, and optional spice. Lightly spray or brush apple slices with oil, then gently toss in the sugar mixture until evenly coated.

Step 3: Air Fry in Batches
Arrange slices in a single layer in your air fryer basket or tray, ensuring they don’t overlap. Set at 300°F (150°C) for 12–15 minutes. Every 5 minutes, check and flip as needed for even crisping.

Step 4: Cool Completely
Remove chips and place on a wire rack or parchment-lined tray. They’ll crisp further as they cool. If still soft after cooling, return to air fryer for another 2 minutes.

Step 5: Serve or Store
Enjoy warm or fully cooled. Store in an airtight container at room temperature—chips stay crisp for a few days.

Cooking Notes & Common Mistakes

Keep slices uniform to ensure even cooking. Monitor closely in the last few minutes to avoid burning—sugar makes them darken quickly. If slices curl, press gently before cooking.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Pair these with nut butter for dipping or crumble them over oatmeal or yogurt for texture. They also make a whimsical topper for vanilla ice cream or a glass of warm apple cider.

Variations & Customizations

Change the spice mix: Add cardamom, pumpkin spice, or even a pinch of chili powder for heat

Use different sugars: Brown sugar adds depth; coconut sugar keeps it paleo‑friendly

Mix fruit flavors: Try pear, peach, or banana slices

Add seeds: Lightly garnish with sesame or chia seeds before cooking

Storage & Reheating

Store completely cooled chips in an airtight container for up to 5 days. If they soften, crisp them back in the air fryer at 300°F for 2–3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen apple slices?
Fresh is best—frozen adds too much moisture. If using thawed, pat dry thoroughly.

2. Do they have to be sweetened?
No—just cinnamon works for a lighter, lower-sugar version.

3. What apple variety works best?
Crisp, sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala hold up and taste great.

4. Can I bake them instead?
Yes. Bake at 225°F (107°C) for 60–75 minutes, flipping halfway through.

5. Are they vegan?
Yes—use plant-based sugar if needed and skip the optional oil.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Apple Chips With Cinnamon Sugar feel like a little celebration in snack form. They’re effortless, natural, and surprisingly elegant. Keep a batch ready and you’re set with a crisp, flavorful bite anytime you need it.

Try them once and I promise you’ll want a stash in your pantry. If you try spices like cardamom or citrus zest, share with me in the comments! I’d love to see your creative spin.