How to Make Apple Chips in the Oven: Crispy, Healthy Homemade Treat

If you’re wondering how to make apple chips in the oven, you’re not alone. This wholesome, crunchy snack has surged in popularity for good reason: it’s delicious, easy to make, and far healthier than most store-bought alternatives. Whether you’re looking for a fun family activity, a low-calorie treat, or a way to use up those apples sitting in your fruit bowl, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Why Apple Chips? A Sweet Snack with a Crunch

There’s something deeply satisfying about biting into a crisp apple chip. It’s the perfect balance of natural sweetness and light crunch, without the heaviness or guilt of deep-fried snacks. Best of all, you can customize the flavor completely—add cinnamon, a touch of sugar, or keep them plain and let the apple’s natural flavor shine.

Are dried apples healthy? Absolutely. Oven-baked apple chips retain most of the fiber and nutrients of fresh apples, without the added sugar, preservatives, or oils found in packaged versions. They’re great for kids, perfect as lunchbox fillers, or even elegant enough for a charcuterie board.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we jump into the how-to, let’s cover the basics.

Apple Chips Ingredients:

• 2 to 3 medium apples (Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady work best)
• Cinnamon (optional)
• Granulated sugar (optional)
• Lemon juice (optional, to prevent browning)

That’s it! The beauty of this snack lies in its simplicity.

Step by Step: How to Make Apple Chips in the Oven

Let’s get to the good stuff. Here’s how to make these crispy bites in your oven—no fancy dehydrator required.

Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 200°F (93°C). You want low heat to slowly remove moisture without burning the fruit.

If you’re wondering, is it safe to dehydrate in oven? The answer is yes, as long as you keep the temperature low and check on them regularly.

Slice the Apples Thinly

Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, cut apples into slices about 1/8 inch (3mm) thick. You can core the apples first if you prefer chip-style rings, but it’s not necessary.

Optional Prep

Place slices in a bowl of water with a splash of lemon juice to reduce browning. Then, dry them with a towel. Sprinkle with cinnamon or a light dusting of sugar if desired.

Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place apple slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Do not overlap—airflow is key for crispiness.

Bake Slowly

Bake for 1.5 to 2.5 hours, flipping slices halfway through. Timing can vary based on apple thickness and oven type.

Wondering how to make crunchy apple chips instead of chewy ones? The longer they stay in (without burning), the crisper they get. Keep a close eye during the last 30 minutes.

Cool to Crisp

Once they feel mostly dry, remove them from the oven and let cool. They will continue to crisp up as they cool on the tray.

Using Different Ovens: Convection vs Regular

Can I use a convection oven as a dehydrator?

Yes! A convection oven is ideal for apple chips because its fan circulates air more evenly, reducing moisture faster.

In fact, how to make apple chips in a convection oven is almost identical to the method above, but the chips may cook 20–30 minutes faster. Reduce the temperature slightly to 190°F (88°C) to prevent over-drying.

If your oven has a dehydrator function, use it! These settings are designed to maintain low temperatures over long periods, perfect for fruit chips.

Troubleshooting: Why Aren’t My Apple Chips Crispy?

It happens. Your chips come out chewy, not crisp. Here’s why:

1. Too thick: Even slices are critical. Use a mandoline for best results.
2. Oven too hot or too cold: Low, steady heat is crucial.
3. Not baked long enough: Give them more time—they need to fully dry.
4. Too much moisture: Pat slices dry before baking.

How to dehydrate chips in the oven the right way?

Use low heat, allow time, avoid crowding, and flip halfway. Simple steps, big impact.

Flavor Variations: Get Creative with Apple Chips

Want to elevate your apple chips beyond basic? Try these ideas:

• Cinnamon & Sugar: Classic and comforting
• Apple pie spice: Nutmeg, allspice, and cinnamon
• Chili & Lime: Sweet with a spicy zing
• Maple Glaze: Light maple syrup brushed before baking

This is also how to make oven baked apple chips with cinnamon and sugar: simply dust the slices with a cinnamon-sugar mix before baking.

Comparing: Dehydrating in Oven vs Dehydrator

Feature	Oven	Dehydrator
Time	2–3 hours	6–8 hours
Energy Efficiency	Less efficient	More efficient for long use
Batch Size	Limited to tray space	Can do larger batches
Crispiness	Excellent (with convection)	Excellent
Maintenance	Easy cleanup	Needs more cleaning

So, can I dehydrate apples in the oven? Definitely. It’s just a matter of patience.

How to Store Apple Chips

Once cooled, store your chips in an airtight container. Keep them in a cool, dry place for up to a week. If they start to get soft, you can crisp them back up in the oven for 5 minutes at 200°F.

For longer shelf life, use a vacuum sealer or store with a food-safe desiccant packet.

FAQs: Answering Your Apple Chip Questions

How to dehydrate apple chips?

Slice them thin, bake at low heat (200°F), and let cool to crisp. That’s it!

Can I use the oven instead of a dehydrator?

Yes, especially if you have a convection oven or a dehydrator setting.

What apples are best for chips?

Choose sweet, firm varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp.

What can I use if I don’t have a mandoline?

A sharp knife works, but aim for even, thin slices. Thicker = chewier.

Are dried apples healthy?

Yes! They’re low in calories, high in fiber, and naturally sweet.

How long to dehydrate in oven?

Between 1.5 and 2.5 hours, depending on oven type and slice thickness.

Why aren’t my apple chips crunchy?

They need more time or thinner slices. They crisp more as they cool.

Final Thoughts: A Simple Joy with Every Crunch

Now that you know exactly how to make apple chips in the oven, you can enjoy this deliciously healthy snack anytime. It’s a simple pleasure that doesn’t require fancy gadgets or complex recipes. Just apples, time, and a little bit of love from your kitchen. So why not preheat the oven and start slicing? Your future self will thank you with every sweet, crunchy bite.