Baked Cinnamon Apple Crisps are a delightful, guilt-free snack that’s as simple to make as it is delicious. Thinly sliced apples are gently coated in warm cinnamon and baked to perfection, creating a crispy, caramelized treat that’s bursting with natural sweetness. With just 10 minutes of prep, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you crave something wholesome yet indulgent.
The combination of crisp edges and chewy centers makes each bite irresistibly satisfying, while the aroma of cinnamon fills your kitchen as they bake for 1 hour and 45 minutes. Packed with fiber and low in calories, these crisps are a healthy way to enjoy the comforting flavors of a classic American dessert—no guilt, just pure enjoyment.
What You’ll Need
- 3 red apples (Gala or Pink Lady work best for sweetness and texture)
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon (adjust to taste or substitute with a mix of cinnamon and nutmeg for extra flavor)
How to Make Baked Cinnamon Apple Crisps
- Preheat your oven to 225°F (107°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Core and slice the apples as thinly as possible (aim for 1/8 inch or 3 mm thick). A mandoline slicer can help achieve even slices.
- Arrange the apple slices on the prepared baking sheet, placing them close together to fit as many as possible. Lightly sprinkle with cinnamon.
- Bake on the lower rack of the oven (away from the heating elements) for 50 minutes. Then, gently flip the slices and bake for another 50-60 minutes. Watch closely during the last 10 minutes to prevent burning.
- Remove from the oven and let the apple slices cool completely. They will soften slightly when hot but will crisp up as they cool.
- Enjoy your crispy, cinnamon-spiced apple crisps as a healthy snack or dessert!
Perfect Pairings: Sauce and Topping Ideas
Take your Baked Cinnamon Apple Crisps to the next level with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream. For a healthier twist, try a light dusting of powdered sugar or a side of vanilla Greek yogurt. These toppings add a touch of indulgence without overpowering the natural sweetness of the apples.
How to Store and Keep Them Crispy
Once cooled, store your apple crisps in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain their crunch, place a piece of parchment paper between layers. If they soften, pop them back in the oven at 225℉ for 5-10 minutes to revive their crispiness.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Bakers
Use a mandoline slicer to achieve uniformly thin apple slices quickly and effortlessly. If you’re short on time, bake the slices on two trays simultaneously, rotating them halfway through for even cooking. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
Recipe Variations to Mix It Up
Experiment with different apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for unique flavors. Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon for a spiced twist. For a fun twist, try dipping half of each crisp in melted dark chocolate before serving.
Common Questions Answered
Why are my apple crisps not crispy? If they’re still soft after cooling, they may need more baking time. Return them to the oven in 10-minute increments until they crisp up. Can I use a dehydrator? Absolutely! Set it to 135℉ and dehydrate for 6-8 hours, flipping halfway through.
Baked Cinnamon Apple Crisps
Ingredients
- 3 red apples (Gala and Pink Lady work best)
- 2 Tablespoons cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 225℉.
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Core and slice your apples as thin as you can (1/8 of an inch or 3 mm).
- Arrange the apple slices on the parchment paper close together so you can fit as many as you can. Lightly sprinkle with cinnamon.
- Bake on the lower part of your oven (away from the heating elements) for 50 minutes, then gently turn the apple slices over and bake for another 50-60 minutes. Keep an eye on them towards the last 10 minutes or so to make sure they do not burn.
- Remove baking sheet or rack from oven and allow the apples to cool. The apples will come out a bit soft but will crisp up as they cool.