There is something incredibly satisfying about homemade crisps that strike the perfect balance between tender and crunchy, especially when infused with warm spices. This Crispy Baked Cinnamon Apple Slices Recipe brings you that delightful contrast, turning fresh apple slices into an irresistible snack or dessert that’s naturally sweetened and bursting with cinnamon goodness. It’s an absolute crowd-pleaser—easy to make yet packed with so much flavor that each crispy bite feels like a comforting hug. Whether you want an afternoon pick-me-up or a fun, healthier alternative to sweets, these baked apple slices will soon become one of your favorite treats.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this Crispy Baked Cinnamon Apple Slices Recipe requires only a handful of simple ingredients. Each contributes not just flavor but also texture and balance to the dish, ensuring your apple slices come out perfect every time.
- 4 large crisp apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith): Choose varieties that hold their shape and offer a nice tart-sweet flavor.
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps the cinnamon-sugar coating adhere beautifully.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The star spice that provides warmth and depth.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Brings a hint of molasses flavor and aids in caramelization.
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Prevents the apples from browning and adds a fresh zing.
How to Make Crispy Baked Cinnamon Apple Slices Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to a low temperature of 225°F (110°C). This slow baking allows the apple slices to dry out and become wonderfully crispy without burning. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar Blend
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the ground cinnamon, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and sea salt. This blend is essential as it gives those apple slices their iconic sweet-spiced flavor and a slight caramelized crunch.
Step 3: Prepare the Apple Slices
Core and slice your apples into 1/4-inch rings for the perfect thickness—thin enough to crisp up, but thick enough to hold texture. Toss the slices gently with lemon juice right away to keep them vibrant and prevent browning during the preparation steps.
Step 4: Coat the Slices with Butter and Cinnamon Sugar
Drizzle the melted butter over the apple slices, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly across them. Toss everything carefully to ensure each slice is covered with those flavorful goodies—this is where the magic really begins!
Step 5: Arrange Slices on Baking Sheets
Spread the apple slices out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheets, making sure none overlap. This spacing is crucial so they bake evenly and become crisp on all sides.
Step 6: Bake Low and Slow
Bake for about 2 hours, flipping the slices gently halfway through to promote even crispness. Patience pays off here—this slow process removes moisture and transforms the apples into perfectly crispy slices every time.
Step 7: Cool to Crisp Perfection
Once baked to a golden brown, transfer your apple slices to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling allows any residual moisture to evaporate, making each bite satisfyingly crunchy.
Step 8: Serve or Store
Enjoy the crisp apple slices immediately for the freshest taste, or store them in an airtight container to keep their crunch for up to a week.
How to Serve Crispy Baked Cinnamon Apple Slices Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little powdered sugar or a pinch of extra cinnamon over your apple slices for a pretty finishing touch. For a bit of indulgence, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, letting the warm cinnamon flavors shine.
Side Dishes
These crispy apple slices pair wonderfully with oatmeal or yogurt for a wholesome breakfast. They also make a fantastic crunchy topping on salads, or a sweet component alongside warm pork dishes that appreciate the contrast of fruit and spice.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the baked apple slices between slices of crusty bread with a smear of cream cheese or nut butter for an irresistible snack sandwich. Or, scatter them atop your morning pancakes or waffles as a naturally sweet and crispy alternative to syrup.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover apple slices in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge if your kitchen is warm. They’ll hold onto their crisp texture for several days, making them easy to enjoy throughout the week.
Freezing
While crispy apples don’t freeze with the same crunch, you can flash freeze the slices on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 2 months. Use frozen slices in baked goods or reheat gently to soften.
Reheating
To revive crispness, reheat apple slices in a low oven at 225°F (110°C) for 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it will make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are recommended for their crisp texture and balanced sweetness, feel free to experiment with your favorite apples. Just ensure they’re firm enough to hold up during baking.
Is it necessary to add butter to the apple slices?
The melted butter adds a lovely richness and helps the cinnamon sugar stick, which contributes to that perfect crispy coating. You can omit it for a lighter version but expect a slightly different texture.
How thin should the apple slices be cut?
Slicing the apples about 1/4-inch thick is ideal. Thinner slices can burn or become too brittle, while thicker slices might remain too soft and miss the crispy texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free and vegan?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it relies on simple natural ingredients. For a vegan option, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based spread to keep that rich flavor.
How long can I store the baked apple slices?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the crispy baked apple slices will stay fresh and crunchy for up to one week. Just be sure to keep them away from moisture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a snack that’s just as wholesome as it is delicious, you’ve got to try this Crispy Baked Cinnamon Apple Slices Recipe. It’s simple, satisfying, and versatile enough to enjoy anytime. Trust me, once you bake these golden, cinnamon-kissed slices, they’ll quickly become a go-to favorite you’ll want to share with everyone you know.
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Crispy Baked Cinnamon Apple Slices Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 2h 0m
- Total Time: 2h 15m
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully crispy baked cinnamon apple slices perfect for a healthy snack or a sweet treat. These apple slices are thinly sliced, coated with a buttery cinnamon-sugar blend, and slow-baked to achieve a golden, crunchy texture without any added artificial ingredients.
Ingredients
Apple Slices
- 4 large crisp apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), cored and sliced into 1/4-inch rings
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Butter
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and enable easy cleanup.
- Mix Cinnamon-Sugar Blend: In a large bowl, combine the ground cinnamon, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and sea salt to create a flavorful coating mix.
- Prepare Apples: Add the apple slices to the bowl and gently toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning and enhance freshness.
- Coat with Butter and Spices: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the apple slices, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mix, making sure each slice is thoroughly coated for maximum flavor.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the apple slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring no overlapping so they crisp evenly.
- Bake the Slices: Bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours, turning the slices halfway through baking to achieve an even golden brown and crispy texture.
- Cool on Wire Rack: Remove from the oven and let the apple slices cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling further crisps them up.
- Serve or Store: Once cooled, enjoy immediately or store the crispy apple slices in an airtight container for up to a week to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Choosing crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith ensures the best texture and flavor.
- Cut the apple slices to uniform thickness to bake evenly.
- Turning the slices halfway through baking helps achieve uniform crispness.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature to keep the slices crispy.
- These make a great healthy alternative to chips and are delicious on their own or as topping for yogurt and desserts.
