Preheat oven to 225 degrees F (105 degrees C) (see NOTES section for air fryer directions).
Carefully slice the apples very thin and place on baking sheets.
2-3 sweet apples
Sprinkle both sides of the apple slices with cinnamon. Gently rub the cinnamon over the surface of the slices to help it stick.
cinnamon
Bake for 1 hour, then flip the slices and bake for an additional hour. You may need to bake for additional time if the slices are not crispy after 2 hours.
Optional step: While the apple slices are cooking, combine the caramel syrup and salt in a small bowl, and mix well.
¼ cup caramel syrup, ¼ teaspoon salt
Once the slices are crispy, turn off the oven, but leave the apple slices in the oven for another ½ hour to 1 hour while it cools.
Remove the apple slices from the oven and allow to finish cooling, if needed.
Notes
While gala and fuji apples are sweet and work well, try tart varieties like granny smith for a tangier chip. You can also mix different apple varieties for a diverse flavor experience.
For best results, use a mandoline slicer. This ensures the apple slices are the same thickness and will bake evenly.
If you prefer, you can core the apples before slicing. However, leaving the core in can create a beautiful star-shaped design in the center of each chip.
To do some prep ahead of time, slice the apples and then store the slices in a water and lemon juice mixture (to prevent browning) in the refrigerator for up to a day.
The number of baking sheets you'll need will depend on the number and sizes of the apples you use and the size of your baking sheets. I have large baking sheets and I needed 3 because my apples were pretty large.
If you have more than one baking sheet and need to use multiple racks in your oven, it's a good idea to rotate the sheets halfway through baking for even cooking.
You can use different spices if desired. A mix of cinnamon and nutmeg or cinnamon and ginger can add a unique flavor twist.
Another delicious idea is to sprinkle the apple slices with a little sea salt in addition to the cinnamon.
Air Fryer Directions:
Preheat the air fryer to 300 degrees F. Air fry the apple slices for 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
After 15 minutes, check the apple slices for crispness. If they need more time, continue air frying in 2-3 minute increments until they are crisp. Be careful because they can quickly go from crisp to burnt.
Once done, let the apple chips cool on a wire rack. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.
Additional Serving Suggestions:
Serve the apple chips with the optional salted caramel dip for a decadent treat. Other dipping options include peanut butter, yogurt, or a chocolate sauce.
These apple chips make a great standalone snack. Pack them in small bags for an easy, healthy snack on the go. Great for kids' lunch boxes!
Use the apple chips as a topping for desserts like apple pie, ice cream, or cakes. They add a delicious crunch and sweetness.