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This crispy baked cinnamon apple slices recipe transforms simple fruit into a delightful, crunchy treat that feels both comforting and indulgent. Thin slices of apple baked with cinnamon and sugar develop a golden crisp that is perfect for snacking or a light dessert. It’s a cozy, naturally sweet snack that pairs wonderfully with cool evenings or afternoon tea.
I first made these to enjoy a healthier alternative to chips and cookies, and they instantly became my go-to treat for any time of day. Their perfect balance of softness in the center and crispy edges is simply addictive.
Ingredients You Need
- 4 large crisp apples such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith: cored and sliced into 1/4-inch rings. Choose apples that are firm to ensure they hold their shape and crisp up nicely during baking.
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter: to add richness and help the cinnamon and sugars adhere evenly
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: for warm, aromatic flavor that complements the apples beautifully
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: adds a delicate sweetness and helps with caramelization
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: contributes a deeper molasses undertone and enhances the caramelized effect
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt: balances sweetness and enhances natural apple flavor
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: prevents browning and adds a subtle brightness to the overall taste
Detailed Cooking Directions
- Build The Base:
- Preheat your oven to 225 degrees Fahrenheit and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and create a crisp surface.
- Mix The Spice Blend:
- In a large bowl, combine ground cinnamon, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and sea salt. This spice mix will coat the apple slices evenly and create that irresistible flavor.
- Coat The Apples:
- Add the apple slices to the bowl and gently toss with lemon juice, ensuring that the fruit stays vibrant and prevents unwanted browning while baking.
- Add Butter And Sugar Mixture:
- Drizzle melted butter over the apple slices and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar blend evenly. Toss gently so every slice is coated with the buttery, sugary mixture.
- Arrange For Baking:
- Place the apple slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets. Make sure they do not overlap to allow air to circulate and ensure uniform crisping.
- Slow Bake:
- Bake the slices in the oven for 2 hours, flipping them halfway through to ensure both sides become golden brown and crispy without burning.
- Cool To Crisp:
- Transfer the baked slices to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling on the rack lets the air circulate around each slice enhancing the crispiness to perfection.
- Serve Or Store:
- Enjoy these crisp apple slices fresh or store them in an airtight container for up to a week, perfect for snacking on the go or adding a crunchy element to your meals.
One of my favorite parts about making these is the cozy cinnamon scent that fills the kitchen as the apples bake. They remind me of crisp fall days and evenings spent curled up with a book and a warm drink.
Smart Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container at room temperature to keep slices crisp for up to a week. If they soften, a quick reheat in a low oven will restore the crispiness. Avoid refrigerating as moisture can make slices soggy. Keeping them dry and cool is key to preserving texture. Layer slices with parchment paper to prevent sticking when stacking in a container.
Ingredient Variations
Try swapping cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice or ginger for a different warmth profile. Use different apple varieties such as Fuji or Pink Lady for varying sweetness and crispness levels. Add a sprinkle of nutmeg or cardamom in the sugar mix for an unexpected twist.
Perfect Pairing Ideas
Serve alongside Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a wholesome breakfast. Sprinkle over ice cream or oatmeal for added crunchy sweetness. Pair with sharp cheddar cheese for a balanced sweet and savory flavor combination.
Treat these crispy cinnamon apple slices like your kitchen treasure. Their sweet and spicy notes bring warmth to any day and offer a guilt-free pleasure that’s easy to prepare and hard to resist. Once you have the perfect balance, these will surely become a beloved staple in your snack repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of apples work best?
Firm, crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith provide the ideal texture and hold up well during slow baking.
- → Why is lemon juice used on the apple slices?
Lemon juice prevents the apple slices from browning and helps maintain a fresh appearance before baking.
- → How do I ensure the slices become crispy?
Slice the apples thinly and evenly, bake at a low temperature for two hours, and cool them on a wire rack to remove moisture and crisp up.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness level?
Yes, you can vary the amount of granulated and brown sugar according to your taste preferences.
- → How should I store the baked apple slices?
Once cooled, store the slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain crispiness.