As a parent, I know the constant demand for snacks all too well. Having healthy, delicious, and convenient options readily available is a lifesaver. These homemade air fryer apple chips fit the bill perfectly, offering a nutritious alternative to highly processed snacks.

My kids adore these crunchy apple treats, and I often stash them in the car or pantry for those moments when hunger strikes. They are incredibly filling and provide that satisfying crunch we all crave, much like potato chips, but with the natural sweetness and fiber of apples. Once you try these crispy apple chips, you’ll likely find them far superior to any store-bought version, which often contain added sugars and preservatives.

The air fryer makes this recipe not just easy, but also incredibly convenient, especially when it comes to cleanup. It’s a method you’ll find yourself reaching for time and again to create these delicious apple chips. With minimal hands-on prep time – just about 10 minutes – these nutritious snacks are a win-win. They’re ideal for packing into school lunch boxes, taking to work, or simply enjoying as a quick, guilt-free snack on the go.

Beyond these delightful apple chips, I also love to keep other healthy homemade snacks on hand for my family, such as these delicious Date Protein Balls, savory Crispy Chickpeas, hearty Easy Date Granola Bars, and comforting Homemade Banana Oatmeal Cookies. Having a variety of wholesome options ensures there’s always something tasty and healthy to grab!

The Magic of Air Frying for Apple Chips

The air fryer is truly a game-changer for making apple chips. Its circulating hot air acts like a mini-convection oven, efficiently drying out the apple slices to create that perfect crispness in a fraction of the time compared to traditional oven baking or dehydrators. This method not only speeds up the cooking process but also ensures even cooking, leading to consistently crunchy results without needing excessive oil.

Simple Ingredients for Flavorful Air Fryer Apple Chips

You’ll be amazed at how few ingredients are needed to create these delectable apple chips. The beauty lies in the simplicity, allowing the natural sweetness of the apples to shine through, complemented by warm spices.

• Apples: For this recipe, I typically use 2 Gala apples. Their sweet flavor and firm texture make them excellent for chipping. However, feel free to experiment with your favorite apple varieties! Other great choices include Honeycrisp for a crisp, sweet bite, Pink Lady Apples for a balanced sweet-tart profile, Fuji for its juicy sweetness, Golden Delicious for a milder sweetness, or even Granny Smith apples if you prefer a tart chip. The most important step is to thinly slice the apples, aiming for a consistent thickness. A sharp knife can work, but for the best, most even results, a mandoline slicer is highly recommended.
• Spices: The classic combination of ground cinnamon and nutmeg perfectly enhances the natural sweetness of the apples, evoking the cozy flavors of autumn. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your spices! You could also add a pinch of ground ginger for a subtle kick, a tiny amount of ground cloves for added warmth, or a touch of star anise for a unique aromatic twist. These warm spices transform simple apple slices into a truly comforting snack.
• Oil: A very small amount of melted coconut oil is used to coat the apple slices. This helps the ground spices adhere beautifully to the fruit and contributes to a slightly more uniform crispness. If coconut oil isn’t your preference, olive oil is a perfectly suitable alternative and won’t impart a strong flavor.

For precise ingredient measurements and detailed step-by-step instructions, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located further down this page.

Creative Ways to Customize Your Air Fryer Apple Chips

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily modify these air fryer apple chips to suit your taste preferences or to experiment with new flavors and textures:

• Spice It Up: While cinnamon and nutmeg are a fantastic base, don’t limit yourself! Try adding a hint of ground ginger for a warm, spicy note, a pinch of cardamom for an exotic aroma, or a touch of cloves or star anise for a deeper, more complex flavor. For ultimate convenience, use a pre-mixed spice blend like apple pie spice or pumpkin pie spice. If you like a little heat, a tiny dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes can add an unexpected and delightful kick.
• Swap the Fruit: The air frying method works beautifully with other fruits too! Experiment with thinly sliced pears for a softer chip, bananas for a naturally sweeter and slightly chewy result, or plums for a tart and colorful snack. Remember to adjust the cooking time as needed, as different fruits have varying moisture levels and sugar content.
• Achieve Extra Crispy Perfection: For apple chips that snap and crackle, slice your apples even thinner—aim for 1/8 inch or less. Then, air fry them for a bit longer at a slightly lower temperature (around 300°F for 15-20 minutes). Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent burning, as crispness can turn to char quickly.
• Add a Touch of Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter apple chip, you have healthy options. Drizzle the apple slices with a small amount of honey or maple syrup before air frying. For those managing sugar intake, a sugar substitute can also be used to achieve desired sweetness without extra calories.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Apple Chips in the Air Fryer

Making these crispy air fryer apple chips is remarkably straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect batch every time:

Step 1: Prepare the Apples for Slicing. Begin by thoroughly washing your chosen apples under cool water. There’s no need to peel them; the skin adds nutrients, flavor, and contributes to the chip’s structure. Carefully remove the stem. Now comes the crucial part: slicing. For uniform and perfectly crispy chips, use a mandoline slicer set to approximately 3mm (about 1/8 inch). If you don’t have a mandoline, a very sharp knife can be used, but strive for slices that are as consistently thin as possible. Always prioritize safety when using a mandoline by following its guidelines, often using a food guard. Once sliced, carefully remove any visible seeds from the center of each apple round.

Step 2: Season the Apple Slices. Transfer your thinly sliced apples to a medium-sized mixing bowl or a wide, flat plate – whichever makes tossing easier. Drizzle the melted coconut oil evenly over the apple slices, then sprinkle with the ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Gently toss the apples until each slice is thoroughly and evenly coated with the oil and spices. This ensures every chip gets a burst of flavor.

Step 3: Air Fry for Crispness. Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Arrange the seasoned apple slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer. It’s okay if they overlap slightly, but avoid stacking them directly on top of each other, as this can hinder even cooking and crisping. Cook for an initial 6-8 minutes, making sure to flip them halfway through to ensure both sides get golden and crispy. Depending on the size of your air fryer and the amount of apple slices, you will likely need to cook them in multiple batches. Continue this process until all your apple slices are beautifully cooked.

Step 4: Cool and Serve for Ultimate Crispness. Once cooked, carefully remove the apple chips from the air fryer and transfer them to a wire cooling rack. This is a critical step, as the apples will continue to crisp up significantly as they cool down. If you notice any chips that still feel damp or a little squishy after cooling for a few minutes, simply return them to the air fryer for an additional 1-2 minutes. This extra burst of heat can make all the difference. For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle a little more cinnamon over the cooled chips before serving. Enjoy your perfectly crispy, healthy snack!

Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Apple Chips

Achieving perfectly crispy and delicious apple chips every time is easy with a few key tips:

• Cook in a Single Layer (Mostly): For optimal air circulation and even crisping, it’s best to arrange the apple slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. While a slight overlap is usually acceptable, avoid piling them on top of each other. If your air fryer basket is crowded, cook in smaller batches. This ensures each chip gets direct exposure to the hot air, leading to a consistent crunch.
• Ensure Even Slices: Consistency is key! Whether you’re using a mandoline or a sharp knife, aim to slice the apples as evenly as possible. Slices of varying thickness will cook at different rates, meaning some might burn while others remain soggy. A mandoline is highly recommended for achieving uniform slices, which is the secret to evenly cooked and perfectly crispy chips.
• Yield Consideration: The number of apple chips you get will depend on the size of your apples and how thinly you slice them. Typically, from each medium-sized apple, you can expect around 20-30 thin slices. Adjust your apple quantity based on how big a batch you want to make.
• Adjust Cook Time for Desired Crispness: The 6-8 minute cooking time is a general guideline. If you prefer your apple chips darker, browner, and extra crispy, extend the cooking time to the 8-minute mark or even slightly longer. Always keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes, as air fryers can vary, and apples can go from perfectly crispy to burnt very quickly. You’re looking for a slightly shrunken appearance and a firm, brittle feel when cool.
• Don’t Rush the Cooling: Resist the urge to eat them immediately! Apple chips, like many air-fried foods, will continue to crisp up as they cool on a wire rack. This cooling period is essential for achieving that satisfying crunch.

Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Air Fryer Apple Chips

These spiced apple chips are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways, making them a fantastic addition to your healthy snack repertoire all year round:

On their own: They’re perfect just as they are! Grab a handful for a light and crunchy snack. Pop a few into a Ziploc bag for a convenient, healthy treat to enjoy on the go, during commutes, or as a welcome addition to kids’ lunch boxes.

With Dips: Elevate your snacking by dipping these chips into your favorite spreads. My kids absolutely love them dipped in peanut butter or almond butter, which also adds a boost of protein, making for a more substantial and satisfying snack. Try them with a creamy yogurt dip or a dollop of caramel for a dessert-like experience.

Added to Meals: Don’t limit these to just snacking!

• Salads: I frequently add crushed or whole apple chips to salads. Their vibrant flavor and satisfying crunch provide a wonderful textural contrast, taking your ordinary salad to the next level.
• Yogurt & Oatmeal: Sprinkle them over your morning yogurt, granola, or oatmeal for an extra layer of flavor and texture. They’re a delightful alternative to fresh fruit, especially when you want that crisp element.
• Dessert Topping: Crush them and use as a topping for ice cream, baked goods, or even warm apple pie for an extra apple-y crunch.
• Trail Mix: Mix them into homemade trail mixes with nuts, seeds, and other dried fruits for a personalized and energizing snack blend.

Storing Your Homemade Air Fryer Apple Chips

To keep your delicious air fryer apple chips crispy and fresh, proper storage is essential:

Once your apple chips are completely cooked and have cooled to room temperature, transfer them into an airtight container. They will maintain their crispness and flavor when stored on the counter for 7-10 days. It’s crucial not to refrigerate them, as the moisture in the refrigerator will quickly cause them to become soggy and lose all their delightful crunch. For longer storage, if you truly want to extend their shelf life beyond a week, you might consider ensuring they are extra crispy from the air fryer, then storing them in a very dry, cool pantry. However, they are so tasty, they rarely last that long!