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This crunchy cinnamon apple snack turns simple apples into a wonderfully tasty treat with a satisfying crisp. Thin apple rings baked with cinnamon and sugar come out golden and perfect for a light bite or sweet finish. It’s a naturally sweet, cozy nibble that fits great with chilly nights or tea time.
I started making these as a better swap for chips and sweets, and they quickly became my favorite anytime treat. The contrast of soft middle and crunchy edges is totally addictive.
What You'll Need
- 4 firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp: sliced into thin 1/4-inch rings with cores removed. Choose firm apples so they keep their shape and crisp up well while baking.
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter: adds richness and helps cinnamon and sugars stick
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: brings warm and cozy flavor that blends beautifully with apples
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: adds gentle sweetness and helps caramelize
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: gives a deeper, molasses-like sweetness and richer caramel notes
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt: balances the sweetness and highlights the apple’s natural taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: stops the apple from turning brown and adds a fresh brightness
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Get Ready:
- Warm your oven to 225 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper so the apples don’t stick and can crisp up nicely.
- Prep The Sugar Mix:
- Stir together cinnamon, brown and white sugars, and salt in a big bowl. This will give your apple slices a tasty coat.
- Dress The Apples:
- Toss the apple rings with lemon juice to keep them looking fresh and to prevent browning while baking.
- Add Butter And Spices:
- Pour melted butter over the apples and sprinkle the sugar mixture on top. Gently toss so every slice is covered in the buttery sugar blend.
- Arrange On Sheets:
- Lay the coated apple slices flat on the baking sheets without overlapping. This helps air flow so they crisp evenly.
- Bake Slowly:
- Cook the apples for 2 hours, flipping once halfway through for even browning and crispness. Watch out so they don’t burn.
- Let Cool:
- Move the baked slices to a wire rack and let them cool fully. This drying step boosts crunchiness.
- Enjoy Or Keep:
- Eat fresh for best crunch or save in a sealed container for up to a week. Great for quick snacks or to add crunch to meals.
One thing I really love is the smell of cinnamon spreading through the kitchen as these bake. They bring to mind crisp autumn weather and quiet evenings with a good book and something warm to drink.
How To Store Them
Keep them in an airtight box at room temp to stay crispy for a week. If they soften a bit, pop them in a low oven quickly to bring back the crunch. Don’t put them in the fridge since moisture makes them soggy. Keep them dry and cool. When stacking, slip pieces of parchment between slices so they don’t stick.
Switching It Up
Try trading the cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice or ginger for a new kind of warmth. Mix up the apples by using Pink Lady or Fuji for different sweetness and crunch. Sprinkle a bit of cardamom or nutmeg into the sugar mix for a fun surprise twist.
Great Things To Serve With
Pair with a spoonful of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a filling breakfast. Sprinkle on oatmeal or ice cream to add some crunch. Try alongside sharp cheddar cheese for a nice mix of sweet and savory.
Think of these spicy cinnamon apple rings as a real kitchen gem. Their sweet and cozy flavors can brighten any day. They’re easy to make and guilt-free too. When you nail the balance just right, these will be your fave go-to snack for sure.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → Which apples are best to use?
Go with firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They stay crisp and bake well without getting mushy.
- → Why add lemon juice to the apple slices?
It keeps the apples from browning too soon and keeps them looking fresh before they go in the oven.
- → How can I make sure the slices get crunchy?
Cut them thin and evenly, bake on low heat for around two hours, then cool them on a wire rack so moisture can escape and make them crispy.
- → Can I change how sweet they are?
Sure! You can tweak how much white and brown sugar you use to fit your taste.
- → What’s the best way to keep the baked apple slices fresh?
Once they’re cool, keep them in a sealed container at room temperature for up to a week so they stay crunchy.