Crispy Air Fryer Apple Chips Recipe (Easy, Healthy & Delicious)
If you want a crunchy, healthy snack without the guilt of fried chips, try making air fryer apple chips. This recipe creates perfectly crisp, naturally sweet apple slices with just a sprinkle of cinnamon. Unlike store-bought snacks, these homemade apple chips contain no preservatives, no unhealthy oils, and no artificial flavors—just simple, wholesome ingredients.
Air fryer apple chips take less than 20 minutes from start to finish, making them an excellent choice for busy days when you want something quick yet satisfying. They’re kid-friendly, budget-friendly, and so addictive that you’ll find yourself making them on repeat.
Why Make Apple Chips in the Air Fryer?
The air fryer has become a kitchen essential for good reason. It cooks faster than a traditional oven, uses little to no oil, and delivers crispy results every time. When you make apple chips in the air fryer, you cut down the cooking time dramatically. Oven-baked apple chips can take two hours or more, while the air fryer finishes the job in about 15 minutes.
Benefits of making apple chips this way include:
- Faster cooking time – enjoy a healthy snack in minutes.
- No oil needed – apples become crisp without added fat.
- Even crispiness – circulating hot air dries the fruit slices evenly.
- Less cleanup – no need for parchment paper or large baking sheets.
By using the air fryer, you get all the flavor and crunch with much less effort.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Apple Chips
This recipe only requires three simple ingredients:
- Apples – Choose a variety you love. Sweet apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady work especially well. Tart apples such as Granny Smith provide a tangier flavor if you prefer less sweetness.
- Cinnamon – This warm spice enhances the natural sweetness of apples.
- Sugar (optional) – Add a small amount if you want a sweeter chip. Apples contain natural sugar, so you can skip this step for a healthier version.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Slice the apples thinly
The most important step for achieving crispy air fryer apple chips is slicing the apples thin. Use a mandoline slicer for even, paper-thin slices—about 1 to 2 millimeters thick. If you cut them thicker, they will stay chewy instead of crisp.
Tip: Leave the skins on for extra fiber and texture.
2. Season the slices
Mix cinnamon with sugar if you are using it. Place apple slices on a flat surface and lightly sprinkle the mixture over both sides. A little goes a long way since the flavor intensifies as the apples dehydrate.
3. Arrange in the air fryer
Spread the slices in a single layer inside your air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping or stacking, as this prevents even crisping. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook in batches.
4. Cook until crisp
Set the air fryer to 300°F (150°C) and cook for 15–18 minutes. Flip the slices halfway through for even results. Watch closely near the end of the cooking time, as thin slices can go from crisp to overdone quickly.
5. Cool and enjoy
After cooking, let the slices cool for 5–10 minutes. They will crisp up further as they cool. Then enjoy your homemade air fryer apple chips immediately or store them for later.
Tips for the Best Results
- Cut evenly: Consistent thickness ensures even cooking.
- Work in batches: Overcrowding prevents proper airflow.
- Check early: Every air fryer cooks differently, so check around 12 minutes.
- Cool completely: Chips become crunchier after resting.
- Store properly: Use an airtight container to keep them crisp for up to five days.
More Recipes to Try
- If you’re looking for more quick air fryer recipes, these crispy air fryer chicken tenders are another family favorite.
- For something on the sweeter side, try baking a classic zucchini bread — it’s moist, flavorful, and a great way to use up extra produce.
- If you love fruit-based treats, this chocolate chip banana bread is a must-try for a wholesome snack or dessert.
Best Apples for Air Fryer Apple Chips
Not all apples crisp up the same way in the air fryer. Some varieties turn sweeter, while others develop a tangy crunch. Choosing the right apple makes a big difference in flavor and texture. Here are the top options:
- Honeycrisp – Naturally sweet, juicy, and crisp. They make the best balance of crunch and sweetness.
- Fuji – Extra sweet and firm, perfect if you want dessert-like chips.
- Gala – Mild and kid-friendly, great for a naturally sweet snack.
- Granny Smith – Tart and refreshing, excellent if you prefer tangy chips.
- Pink Lady – Sweet-tart flavor with firm texture that crisps well.
Pro Tip: Mix different apple varieties in one batch for a blend of sweet, tart, and tangy flavors.Best Apples for Air Fryer Apple Chips
Not all apples crisp up the same way in the air fryer. Some varieties turn sweeter, while others develop a tangy crunch. Choosing the right apple makes a big difference in flavor and texture. Here are the top options:
- Honeycrisp – Naturally sweet, juicy, and crisp. They make the best balance of crunch and sweetness.
- Fuji – Extra sweet and firm, perfect if you want dessert-like chips.
- Gala – Mild and kid-friendly, great for a naturally sweet snack.
- Granny Smith – Tart and refreshing, excellent if you prefer tangy chips.
- Pink Lady – Sweet-tart flavor with firm texture that crisps well.
Pro Tip: Mix different apple varieties in one batch for a blend of sweet, tart, and tangy flavors.
Flavor Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are some tasty twists for your air fryer apple chips:
- Apple Pie Chips – Add nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for cozy fall flavor.
- Sweet and Salty Chips – Sprinkle lightly with cinnamon sugar and sea salt.
- Spicy Chips – Add a dash of cayenne or chili powder for a sweet-spicy kick.
- Vanilla Chips – Mix cinnamon with vanilla sugar for a fragrant twist.
Experiment with different spice blends until you find your favorite.
How to Store Air Fryer Apple Chips
To keep your chips fresh and crunchy:
- Let them cool completely before storing.
- Place them in an airtight container or glass jar.
- Store at room temperature for up to 5 days.
If the chips lose some crunch, return them to the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to re-crisp.
Nutrition Facts (per serving, about 1 apple)
- Calories: 80
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Natural Sugar: 17g
- Fat: 0g
Since this snack is made with only apples and spices, it fits into most diets, including gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free lifestyles. Skipping the sugar makes it even healthier.
Serving Ideas
Air fryer apple chips are versatile. Enjoy them in different ways:
- As a stand-alone snack at home or work.
- Packed into lunchboxes for a kid-friendly treat.
- Paired with nut butter or yogurt for added protein.
- Crumbled over oatmeal, granola, or smoothie bowls.
- Served alongside a cheese board for a sweet crunch.
With so many options, you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy them.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Apple Chips
Making air fryer apple chips is simple, but a few common questions come up often. Here are quick answers to help you get the best results every time.
How long can I make apple crisp in an air fryer?
If you mean apple chips, they take 15–18 minutes at 300°F (150°C). If you’re asking about apple crisp (the dessert with oats and topping), most air fryers bake it in about 20–25 minutes at 350°F (175°C). For the chips, stick to thin slices and lower temperature; for crisp, use a small oven-safe dish that fits inside your air fryer.
Why are my apple chips not crispy?
If your air fryer apple chips turn out chewy instead of crunchy, the slices were likely too thick or the basket was overcrowded. Always slice apples as thin as possible and cook them in a single layer. Let the chips cool completely before storing—they continue to crisp as they rest.
Can you dehydrate apples in an air fryer?
Yes, you can dehydrate apples in an air fryer by cooking them at a lower temperature for a longer time. Most air fryers work well around 200–225°F (93–107°C). It may take 45–60 minutes, depending on how thin the slices are. This method creates chewy dried apples rather than crispy apple chips.
How do you cook apple chips in the air fryer?
You cook apple chips in the air fryer by slicing apples very thin, seasoning them with cinnamon and optional sugar, and then air frying at 300°F (150°C) for 15–18 minutes. Flip the slices halfway for even crispiness. Let them cool for a few minutes so they firm up into crunchy chips.
Can I make apple chips without cinnamon?
Yes, plain apple chips taste just as good. Cinnamon simply adds flavor depth.
Do I need to peel the apples?
No. The skin provides fiber and extra nutrients, so leave it on.
Can I make a larger batch?
Yes, but cook in batches. Crowding the basket leads to uneven cooking.
Recipe
Crispy Air Fryer Apple Chips
Ingredients
- 2 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or your favorite variety)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Wash and dry the apples.
- Slice apples very thin (1–2mm) using a mandoline slicer or sharp knife.
- Mix cinnamon and optional sugar in a small bowl.
- Lightly sprinkle the mixture over apple slices on both sides.
- Place slices in a single layer inside the air fryer basket.
- Air fry at 300°F (150°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Check for crispiness and remove when golden and dry.
- Let chips cool for 5–10 minutes before serving (they crisp up more as they cool).
Notes
- Slice apples as thin as possible for maximum crunch.
- Sweet apples like Fuji or Gala make naturally sweeter chips.
- Store cooled chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- If chips soften, return them to the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to re-crisp.
- Try variations: add nutmeg, pumpkin spice, or a dash of cayenne for a fun twist.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 2 Serving Size: About 1 appleAmount Per Serving:Calories: 80Total Fat: 0gSodium: 0mgCarbohydrates: 22gFiber: 3gProtein: 0g
Nutritional information is an estimate calculated using generic data for ingredients. Exact values may vary depending on the brand, type of apple, or air fryer used. For precise nutrition details, please consult a registered dietitian or use a trusted nutrition calculator.
Making air fryer apple chips is simple, fast, and satisfying. You only need apples, cinnamon, and optional sugar to create a snack that’s naturally sweet, crunchy, and much healthier than processed alternatives. With a little prep and less than 20 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a snack that’s perfect for kids, adults, or anyone who loves healthy eating.
Once you try this recipe, you’ll want to keep apples on hand just for making more batches. Whether you enjoy them plain, spiced, or paired with other snacks, apple chips from the air fryer will quickly become a household favorite.
