Dehydrated Apple Chips Recipe

This post is all about making the best dehydrated apple chips recipe!

Looking for a healthier snack option that’s perfect for the whole family and can be taken on the go?

Dehydrated apple chips might just be the answer you’ve been searching for.

Packed with flavor and nutrients, these crunchy treats are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into the benefits of dehydrated apple chips, walk you through the how-to, discuss the supplies you’ll need (including a link to my favorite dehydrator), and even explore some tasty flavor variations.

We’ll also cover an alternative oven method for those who don’t have a dehydrator and share some recipe ideas to use your dehydrated apple chips in.

The Benefits of Dehydrated Apple Chips

Dehydrated apple chips are more than just a tasty snack. Here are some of the benefits:

Nutrient-Rich: Apples are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Dehydrating them retains most of these nutrients, making apple chips a healthy snack option.
Convenient: These chips are lightweight and easy to pack, making them a perfect snack for school lunches, road trips, or hiking adventures.
Long Shelf Life: Properly stored dehydrated apple chips can last for months, reducing food waste and allowing you to enjoy apples long after the season is over.
Versatile: Apple chips can be enjoyed on their own or used in various recipes, adding a sweet and crunchy element to your dishes.

How to Make Dehydrated Apple Chips

Supplies Needed:

Apples (any variety you prefer)
Lemon juice (optional, to prevent browning)
Cinnamon or other spices (optional, for flavor variations)
Dehydrator
Mandoline slicer or sharp knife
Large bowl
Parchment paper (if using the oven)

Using a Dehydrator

Prepare the Apples:

Wash and core the apples. You can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds extra fiber.
Slice the apples evenly to ensure they dry at the same rate. A mandoline slicer works great for this.

Optional Step – Prevent Browning:

Soak the apple slices in a bowl of water with a splash of lemon juice for a few minutes. This helps prevent browning and preserves the color of the apples.

Arrange the Slices:

Lay the apple slices in a single layer on the dehydrator trays. Ensure they do not overlap to allow for proper air circulation.

Seasoning (Optional):

Sprinkle cinnamon or other desired spices over the apple slices for added flavor.

Dehydrate:

Set the dehydrator to 135°F (57°C) and dry the apple slices for 6-10 hours, or until they are crispy. The drying time may vary depending on the thickness of the slices and the type of apples used.

Cool and Store:

Let the apple chips cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This prevents moisture from accumulating and extends their shelf life.

Using an Oven

If you don’t have a dehydrator, you can still make delicious apple chips using your oven.

Prepare the Apples:

Follow the same steps as above to wash, core, and slice the apples.

Arrange the Slices:

Lay the apple slices on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Ensure they do not overlap.

Seasoning (Optional):

Sprinkle your chosen spices over the apple slices.

Bake:

Preheat your oven to its lowest setting (usually around 200°F or 93°C). Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for 1.5-2 hours, flipping the slices halfway through. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Cool and Store:

Allow the apple chips to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

Flavor Variations

Cinnamon Sugar:

Toss the apple slices in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before dehydrating for a classic sweet treat.

Spiced:

Sprinkle with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice for a warm, autumnal flavor.

Vanilla:

Add a few drops of vanilla extract to the lemon water soak for a subtle vanilla flavor.

Savory:

Experiment with savory spices like chili powder or paprika for a unique twist on the traditional sweet apple chip.

Recipe Ideas Using Dehydrated Apple Chips

Dehydrated apple chips are delicious on their own, but they can also be used in various recipes to add a crunchy texture and sweet flavor.

Apple Chip Granola: Mix crushed apple chips into your homemade granola for added crunch and sweetness.
Apple Chip Trail Mix: Combine apple chips with nuts, seeds, and dried fruits for a nutritious and portable snack.
Baked Goods: Add apple chips to muffins, cookies, or bread for a delightful texture and flavor.
Salads: Toss apple chips into salads for a crispy, sweet element.
Oatmeal Topping: Crumble apple chips over your morning oatmeal for a delicious and healthy topping.

FAQ

1. How long do dehydrated apple chips last?
When stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, dehydrated apple chips can last for up to 6 months. Ensure they are completely dry before storing to prevent mold growth.

2. Can I use any type of apple for dehydrating?
Yes, you can use any variety of apple. However, firmer apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji tend to yield the best results.

3. Do I need to use lemon juice to prevent browning?
No, it’s optional. Lemon juice helps maintain the color of the apples but is not necessary for dehydration.

4. Can I dehydrate apple slices with the skin on?
Yes, you can leave the skin on for added fiber and texture. Just be sure to wash the apples thoroughly.

5. What other fruits can I dehydrate using the same method?
You can dehydrate a variety of fruits using similar methods, such as bananas, strawberries, peaches, and pears.

Making dehydrated apple chips at home is a simple and rewarding process that provides a healthy snack for the whole family.

Whether you use a dehydrator or an oven, these apple chips are sure to be a hit.

Experiment with different flavors and enjoy the versatility they offer in various recipes. For more dehydrating tips and recipes, be sure to check out my other posts on Naturally Jamie.

Happy dehydrating!