Apples and cinnamon are a match made in heaven, but turning them into crisp, airy chips? That’s pure magic. The first time I tossed apple slices into my air fryer, I wasn’t expecting much—just a quick snack to satisfy a craving.
But the moment I took that first crunchy bite, I knew I had stumbled onto something special. The edges were perfectly crisp, the centers just chewy enough, and the cinnamon sugar coating brought out the natural sweetness of the fruit in the best way.
Now, these apple chips have become a staple in my kitchen. They disappear almost as fast as I make them, and honestly, I don’t mind. They’re light, packed with flavor, and ridiculously easy to make.
Whether it’s a cozy afternoon treat or a healthy alternative to packaged snacks, these crispy bites always hit the spot. The best part? No artificial ingredients, no oil—just simple, wholesome goodness in every crunch.
Short Description
Crispy, naturally sweet, and lightly spiced with cinnamon, these Air Fryer Apple Chips are a simple, healthy snack. Made with just four ingredients, they’re easy to prepare and packed with flavor!
Key Ingredients
- 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Tools Needed
- Air fryer
- Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
- Mixing bowl
- Parchment paper (optional, depending on your air fryer)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Slice the Apples
Wash and dry the apples. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, cut them into very thin slices, about 1/8 inch thick. No need to peel them—keeping the skin adds extra fiber and crunch. Remove any seeds.
Step 2: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning. In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle over the apple slices and gently toss until evenly coated.
Step 3: Arrange in the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Place the apple slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If needed, work in batches to avoid overlapping.
Step 4: Air Fry Until Crispy
Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through. Keep an eye on them, as cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the slices. They should be crisp and golden when done.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
Let the apple chips cool completely before eating. They will continue to crisp up as they cool. Enjoy them as a snack or a topping for yogurt and oatmeal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy and Naturally Sweet – No need for excessive sugar; the apples provide their own sweetness.
Healthier Than Store-Bought – No preservatives, just wholesome ingredients.
Super Easy – Only four ingredients and minimal prep work.
Perfect Snack – Light, crunchy, and satisfying for any time of day.
Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions
1. Cutting slices too thick
If slices are too thick, they won’t crisp up properly. Use a mandoline slicer for even, thin slices.
2. Overcrowding the air fryer
For best results, cook in a single layer. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking.
3. Not flipping halfway through
Flipping ensures both sides crisp up evenly. Skipping this step can lead to soft spots.
4. Not letting them cool
Apple chips continue to crisp as they cool. Let them rest before storing or eating.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
– As a snack – Eat them straight from the container.
– With yogurt – Sprinkle over Greek yogurt for added crunch.
– In oatmeal – Stir into warm oatmeal for a naturally sweet boost.
– With nut butter – Dip in almond or peanut butter for extra protein.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating: If they lose their crispness, pop them back in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 300°F.
FAQs
1. Can I use other apple varieties?
Yes! Fuji, Pink Lady, or Gala apples work well too.
2. How do I make them without an air fryer?
Bake in a 200°F oven for 1.5-2 hours, flipping halfway through.
3. Can I make them without sugar?
Yes! Omit the sugar and use only cinnamon for a natural sweetness.
4. Why are my apple chips still chewy?
They may need more time in the air fryer. Keep cooking in 2-minute increments until crisp.
5. Can I double the batch?
Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Tips & Tricks
– Use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices.
– Sprinkle with nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a flavor twist.
– Let them cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess.
– If your air fryer tends to run hot, lower the temperature to 280°F.
Recipe Variations
Spiced Maple Apple Chips: Swap the granulated sugar for 1 tbsp maple syrup and add a pinch of nutmeg.
Coconut Apple Chips: Toss the slices with 1 tsp coconut sugar and a pinch of shredded coconut before air frying.
Chili-Lime Apple Chips: Mix ½ tsp chili powder with the cinnamon and add a squeeze of lime juice.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Apple Chips are the kind of recipe that feels effortless but delivers big on flavor and texture. Every time I pull a fresh batch from the air fryer, I can’t help but sneak a few before they even hit the plate.
These apple chips are proof that sometimes, the simplest ingredients create the most delicious results. They’re light, naturally sweet, and packed with cozy cinnamon warmth—ideal for snacking, sharing, or even gifting in little homemade treat bags. If you haven’t tried making them yet, this is your sign. One taste, and you’ll be hooked!

Air Fryer Apple Chips With Cinnamon Sugar
Ingredients
- 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Slice the apples: Wash and dry the apples, then slice them into thin rounds (about 1/8 inch thick) using a sharp knife or mandoline. Leave the skin on for extra crunch and fiber. Remove any seeds.
- Coat with cinnamon sugar: Toss the apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning. In a small bowl, mix cinnamon and sugar, then sprinkle over the apples, tossing to coat evenly.
- Arrange in the air fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Lay the apple slices in a single layer in the basket, working in batches if needed.
- Air fry until crispy: Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep an eye on them—cooking time may vary based on thickness. The chips should be golden and crisp when done.
- Cool and enjoy: Let the apple chips cool completely to crisp up fully. Enjoy them on their own or as a crunchy topping for yogurt or oatmeal!