Apple Chips – The Ultimate Guide to Making, Buying & Enjoying This Healthy Snack

Apple chips are quickly becoming one of the most popular healthy snack options for families, foodies, and fitness lovers alike. Packed with natural sweetness, fiber, and crunch, they’re a smart alternative to traditional fried snacks. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to make your crispy apple chips at home, compare store-bought brands, troubleshoot texture issues, and even discover creative ways to incorporate them into your meals. Whether you’re new to this wholesome snack or already a fan, you’ll find expert insights, simple recipes, and practical tips to get the most out of every bite.

What Are Apple Chips and Why Are They Popular?

The Rise of Fruit-Based Snacks in the U.S.

Over the past decade, the U.S. snack market has shifted heavily toward healthier alternatives. With rising concerns about processed foods, more people are choosing fruit-based snacks over salty or sugary options. They are made by dehydrating or baking thin slices of apples, resulting in a light, crunchy texture that’s easy to enjoy anywhere, from lunchboxes to hiking trails.

The popularity of chips has soared not just because they taste good, but because they’re perceived as a better choice for those looking to reduce fat, sugar, and preservatives in their diets. The bonus? They’re naturally sweet and packed with fiber.

What Exactly Are Apple Chips?

Crisp fruit snacks are thinly sliced apples that are either baked, air-fried, or dehydrated until they reach a crispy or chewy texture. Unlike dried apple rings, which are typically soft and pliable, apple chips are made to snap like a traditional chip. Some are dusted with spices like cinnamon, while others keep it simple with just apples.

There are two main types:

• Homemade Apple Chips: Made using fresh apples with no preservatives.
• Store-Bought Apple Chips: Often include additives or sweeteners for a longer shelf life.

These chips are gluten-free, low in calories, and naturally fat-free — a compelling option for those avoiding allergens or watching their weight.

For a sweeter twist, you might enjoy flavors inspired by classics like caramel apple slices.

Nutritional Breakdown: Are Apple Chips Good for You?

Yes — apple chips are good for you, especially when made at home or purchased from brands that use minimal ingredients. Here’s a nutritional snapshot for a typical serving (about 22 grams or 1 oz of unsweetened baked apple chips):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	95
Total Fat	0g
Carbohydrates	25g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Sugars (natural)	19g
Protein	0g

What makes them healthy:

• No added fat
• High in fiber
• Low in sodium
• Naturally gluten-free

Just be cautious with some store brands that add sugar or oil, which can undermine the snack’s health value. Discover great ideas like choosing the healthiest apple chips in stores.

How to Make Apple Chips at Home

Choosing the Right Apples for Crispy Chips

Not all apples are created equal when it comes to making the best homemade apple chips. The variety of apples you choose can directly affect the flavor, texture, and crispiness of the final product.

Best apple varieties for chips:

• Honeycrisp – Sweet, crisp, and ideal for baking.
• Fuji – Balanced sweetness with a firm texture.
• Pink Lady – Tart and tangy with a bold apple flavor.
• Granny Smith – Tart and low in sugar for those who prefer a zing.

Avoid softer apples like Red Delicious or Golden Delicious, which tend to shrink and get mushy rather than crisp.

Pro Tip: Keep the skins on for extra fiber and crunch. Slice the apples very thinly — about 1/8 inch thick — using a mandoline slicer for even results.

Tools and Techniques: Oven, Dehydrator, or Air Fryer?

There are three main ways to make apple chips at home. Each has its pros and cons depending on the texture you prefer and the tools you have available.

Method	Time	Pros	Cons
Oven	1.5–2 hours	No special tools needed	Takes longer, uneven crisping
Dehydrator	6–10 hours	Best for consistent texture	Requires a dehydrator
Air Fryer	15–25 mins	Super quick and crisp	Smaller batch sizes

Let’s break it down a little more:

Oven-Baked Apple Chips

Baking is the most accessible method for most people. Simply place thinly sliced apples on a parchment-lined baking sheet, sprinkle with cinnamon (optional), and bake at 200°F (93°C) for 1.5 to 2 hours. Flip halfway for even drying.

Dehydrator Apple Chips

Using a food dehydrator gives the best and most consistent results. Dehydrate sliced apples at 135°F for 6 to 10 hours until they’re completely dry. This method retains more nutrients and avoids potential overbaking.

Air Fryer Apple Chips

If you’re short on time, the air fryer is your best friend. Place seasoned apple slices in the fryer basket and cook at 300°F (150°C) for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Step-by-Step Guide for Perfect Homemade Apple Chips

Here’s how to make classic cinnamon apple chips at home in the oven:

Ingredients:

• 2 apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji)
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 200°F (93°C).
2. Wash apples and slice them into thin, even rounds (remove seeds but keep the core).
3. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
4. Lay apple slices in a single layer. Sprinkle with cinnamon.
5. Bake for 1 hour, flip slices, and continue for another 60 minutes.
6. Let them cool on the baking sheet — they crisp up as they cool.

Bonus Tip: Store in an airtight container for up to one week. Toss in a few grains of rice in a sachet to absorb moisture and retain crispiness.

Best Recipes for Homemade Apple Chips

Simple Cinnamon Apple Chips

If you’re just starting out, nothing beats a classic cinnamon apple chip recipe. This one is perfect for beginners — it’s easy, low-effort, and delicious.

Ingredients:

• 2 large Honeycrisp apples
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• Optional: a pinch of sea salt for contrast

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C).
2. Slice the apples very thinly (use a mandoline if possible).
3. Arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Sprinkle cinnamon evenly across the top.
5. Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, flipping once at the halfway mark.
6. Cool completely before storing.

These are naturally sweet with no sugar added, which makes them ideal for kids and guilt-free snacking.

Savory Apple Chips with Sea Salt and Herbs

Want something a bit more unique? Try savory apple chips. This version plays on the natural sweetness of apples while adding a salty, herby finish that’s addictive.

Ingredients:

• 2 Granny Smith apples
• Olive oil spray
• Sea salt
• Crushed rosemary or thyme

Instructions:

1. Thinly slice apples and spray lightly with olive oil.
2. Place on a tray and sprinkle salt and herbs.
3. Bake at 200°F for about 90 minutes, flipping halfway.
4. Cool and enjoy with hummus or as a salad topper.

These chips are excellent for savory palates or those reducing sugar intake.

Looking for more apple-themed treats? Try pairing your chips with applesauce muffins for a balanced lunchbox

Sweet Variations: Maple, Vanilla, and Honey-Infused Chips

If you’re feeling adventurous, step it up with flavored chips. These use light natural sweeteners that caramelize during baking, delivering rich taste and extra crunch.

Maple Vanilla Chips

• Lightly brush apple slices with a mix of 1 tbsp maple syrup and ½ tsp vanilla extract.

Honey Cinnamon Chips

• Mix 1 tbsp honey with ½ tsp cinnamon. Brush the slices and bake as usual.

Bonus tip: Always let flavored chips cool completely before storing — the coating helps them crisp up beautifully!

Troubleshooting Apple Chip Recipes

Why Aren’t My Apple Chips Crunchy?

One of the most common issues with homemade apple chips is the dreaded soft or chewy texture. You followed the recipe to the letter, so why aren’t they crispy?

Here are the top reasons:

1. Slices are too thick – Aim for 1/8 inch or thinner. The thicker the slice, the longer it takes to dehydrate.
2. Moisture wasn’t fully removed – Apple chips may seem done while warm, but still contain moisture. Let them cool completely before deciding.
3. Crowded baking tray – Overlapping slices trap steam. Always bake in a single layer.
4. Temperature too high – Baking above 225°F can burn the edges while leaving the middle soggy.
5. Humidity – If your home is humid, your chips may absorb moisture even after cooling. Store them with a moisture-absorbing sachet like dry rice in a tea bag.

Avoiding Common Mistakes When Making Apple Chips

Even experienced cooks hit snags. Here’s a cheat sheet to ensure your chips turn out perfect every time:

Mistake	How to Fix It
Unevenly sliced apples	Use a mandoline for uniform thickness
Chewy, sticky chips	Bake longer at low temp; cool completely
Burnt edges	Rotate pans halfway and avoid sugar-based coatings
Chips lost crispiness	Re-bake at 200°F for 15–20 minutes
Bland flavor	Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or a sprinkle of sea salt

Tips to Get the Perfect Texture Every Time

If you’re aiming for that store-bought crunch but want a clean label, these expert tips can help:

• Flip slices mid-bake: Ensures even drying.
• Cool on the tray: Residual heat finishes crisping them up.
• Use firm-fleshed apples: Softer apples yield leathery results.
• Bake low and slow: Never rush the process. It’s better to extend baking than to raise the temperature.
• Test one chip before storing: If it bends, it’s not ready. Bake longer.

Apple chips are part snack, part science. But with these easy fixes, you can perfect your method and make a batch that stays crispy for days.

Add them to dishes like apple cranberry coleslaw for a crunchy twist.

Apple Chips vs. Other Snack Options

How Do Apple Chips Compare to Potato Chips?

Potato chips may win in crunch, but apple chips dominate when it comes to nutrition and clean ingredients. Let’s break it down:

Nutrient (Per 1 oz)	Apple Chips	Potato Chips
Calories	~95	~150
Total Fat	0g	10g
Sodium	0–5mg	150–200mg
Fiber	3g	1g
Sugar (natural)	19g (natural)	0g
Vitamins & Antioxidants	Yes	Minimal

Apple chips win for being naturally fat-free, fiber-rich, and often contain zero sodium, making them a better option for people watching their blood pressure or heart health.

Potato chips, though satisfying, are usually fried in oils, loaded with salt, and offer minimal nutritional value. So, if you’re looking to snack smarter, apple chips are a lighter, healthier choice.

Are Apple Chips Healthier Than Other Dried Fruit Snacks?

Compared to dried banana chips or dried mango, apple chips still come out ahead, especially if made without added sugar.

Snack Type	Added Sugar	Fat Content	Fiber	Crisp Texture
Apple Chips	No*	0g	High	Yes
Banana Chips	Yes	8–12g	Medium	No
Dried Mango	Yes	0g	Low	No

*Depends on the brand or homemade version

Most banana chips are fried, while dried mango is often packed with sugar. Apple chips, when made from 100% apple, can easily qualify as one of the healthiest chip alternatives available.

What Is the Healthiest Chip to Eat?

According to nutritionists, the healthiest chips are:

• They are baked or dehydrated, not fried.
• Contain minimal ingredients (ideally 1–2).
• They are low in sodium and fat.
• They are rich in fiber or antioxidants.

Apple chips meet all of those criteria, especially if you choose air-dried or baked varieties. Brands like Bare and DIY options are especially recommended.

Buying Guide: Store-Bought Apple Chips

Popular Brands: Bare, Seneca, and More

While homemade is best for control and customization, store-bought apple chips can be a super convenient option. Here are some of the most trusted brands currently leading the market:

1. Bare Snacks – Probably the most well-known, Bare offers 100% baked apple chips with no added sugar, preservatives, or oil.
2. Seneca – These are slightly thicker and have a more traditional chip crunch, but often contain oil and sweeteners.
3. Brothers All Natural – Freeze-dried apple chips that preserve the fruit’s nutrients while offering a lighter, airy texture.
4. RIND Snacks – Focuses on whole-fruit chips with peels for added fiber.
5. Trader Joe’s Organic Apple Chips – Clean, affordable, and available nationwide.
6. Good & Gather (Target) – Budget-friendly option with clear labeling and minimal ingredients.

Each brand varies in flavor intensity, texture, and ingredients, so always read the label before adding a bag to your cart.

Reading Labels: What to Look for in Healthy Apple Chips

To make the healthiest choice, keep an eye on these label components:

• Ingredients list: Look for 1–2 items max (e.g., “Apples, cinnamon”).
• No added sugar: Skip varieties with cane sugar, fructose, or syrups.
• Low sodium: Aim for under 5mg of sodium per serving.
• No oils: Avoid chips fried or roasted in sunflower, palm, or canola oil.
• Organic and non-GMO: Great for those concerned with pesticide residues.

Pro Tip: If you spot the words “crunchy” and “unsweetened” together on the package, you’re on the right track.

Are Store-Bought Apple Chips Worth the Price?

Homemade apple chips are budget-friendly, but store-bought versions offer convenience. Here’s a quick comparison:

Type	Cost Per Serving	Ingredients Control	Time Required	Shelf Life
Homemade	$0.40–$0.60	Total	2+ hours	5–7 days
Store-Bought	$1.00–$2.50	Minimal	None	3–6 months

So, is it cheaper to buy or make apple chips? Making your wins on price and control. But for time-strapped snackers, brands like Bare or Trader Joe’s offer quality with convenience, especially if bought in bulk.

Apple Chips Manufacturing and Market Insights

Does Apple Make Chips in the U.S.?

Let’s clear up one common point of confusion first: Apple Inc. — The tech giant does not make Apple chips for eating. That company is famous for Apple Silicon chips, like the M1 or M2 processors used in their devices. So, when it comes to edible apple chips, the answer is no — Apple (the company) has nothing to do with the snack.

However, when you ask, “Does anyone make apple chips in the U.S.?”, the answer is a strong yes. Several of the most popular apple chip brands operate within the United States and use locally grown fruit, particularly from Washington State, which leads the country in apple production.

Top Apple Chip Manufacturers in North America

Many reputable manufacturers specialize in dehydrated and baked fruit snacks, particularly apple chips. Here are some key players:

1. Watershed Foods LLC – Based in Illinois, known for premium dried fruits with clean labels.
2. Royal Ridge Fruit & Cold Storage – Located in Washington, it offers organic options and large-scale production.
3. Woodland Foods – Supplies bulk apple chips to brands and foodservice operators.
4. VIA Incorporations – Innovates with freeze-dried fruit solutions.
5. Assured Edge Solutions – Offers apple-based ingredients for private labeling and retailers.

These companies supply both retail-ready products and bulk apple chips to stores, food companies, and institutions. Most adhere to FDA food safety guidelines and use apples sourced from North American orchards.

For a warm and flaky alternative, don’t miss the apple turnover recipe that’s perfect for fall

Organic and Locally Sourced Production Trends

Today’s conscious consumers want transparency, and apple chip producers are listening. Some key trends in the apple chip market include:

• Organic certification – Brands like Bare and RIND often use certified organic apples.
• Farm-to-bag transparency – Some brands now highlight where their apples were grown (Yakima Valley, NY orchards, etc.).
• Minimal processing – Many producers now bake or dehydrate instead of frying, reducing oil and preservatives.
• Zero waste initiatives – Companies like RIND use the peels to reduce waste and increase fiber content.

This focus on clean, traceable ingredients and sustainable processing makes apple chips even more appealing for those who want their food to be good for their body and the planet.

Apple Chips for Special Diets and Lifestyles

Are Apple Chips Keto, Vegan, and Gluten-Free Friendly?

Let’s break it down simply: Apple chips are naturally vegan and gluten-free, but whether they’re keto-friendly depends on how they’re made.

• ✅ Vegan – 100% apple chips contain no animal products. Just avoid versions with honey or yogurt coatings.
• ✅ Gluten-Free – Apples are naturally gluten-free, and most brands don’t add gluten-containing ingredients. Still, check labels for potential cross-contamination.
• ⚠️ Keto – Most apple chips aren’t keto, as apples are high in natural sugar and carbs. A typical serving can contain 20–25g of carbs. Keto eaters may want to try veggie chips like zucchini or kale instead.

So while apple chips aren’t ideal for low-carb diets, they’re perfect for those following clean eating, vegetarian, paleo, and low-sodium plans.

Best Options for Kids and School Lunches

If you’re a parent looking for a healthier lunchbox snack, apple chips are a slam dunk.

Here’s why kids love them:

• Crunchy and sweet like regular chips
• No sticky mess like fruit snacks
• Easy to portion and pack

Top kid-friendly brands:

• Bare Apple Chips – Clean ingredients, no added sugar
• Trader Joe’s Apple Chips – Great value and taste
• Brothers All Natural – Freeze-dried for a lighter crunch
• Target’s Good & Gather – Budget option, often in snack-size bags

Just remember to check for added sugars or oils. Even “healthy” snacks can be misleading without reading the fine print.

Incorporating Apple Chips Into Your Meal Plans

Apple chips aren’t just snacks — they can elevate your meals, too. Here are a few creative ways to use them:

• Breakfast – Sprinkle over oatmeal or yogurt for crunch.
• Salads – Add to spinach salads with walnuts and goat cheese.
• Trail mix – Mix with nuts, seeds, and dark chocolate chips.
• Desserts – Use as a garnish on cupcakes or ice cream.
• Charcuterie boards – A sweet, crisp contrast to cheese and meats.

Because they store well and don’t need refrigeration, they’re perfect for meal preppers, hikers, and anyone looking for fast, nutritious add-ons.

FAQs About Apple Chips

Are apple chips good for you?

Yes, crisp fruit snacks are a healthy snack option, especially when they’re made from 100% apples with no added sugar, oil, or preservatives. They’re rich in fiber, naturally low in calories and fat, and contain beneficial antioxidants like quercetin and vitamin C, especially if the skin is left on. Homemade versions are typically the healthiest, while store-bought chips can still be a good option if you read the label carefully.

Is it cheaper to buy or make apple chips?

In most cases, making apple chips at home is cheaper, particularly if you buy apples in bulk or use ones that are already on hand. Homemade chips cost around $0.40–$0.60 per serving, while store-bought bags can run $1.50–$2.50 per serving. You also get full control over the ingredients and seasoning, making DIY the more economical and customizable choice.

Why aren’t my apple chips crunchy?

If your apple chips aren’t crunchy, it’s likely due to one (or more) of the following issues:

• Slices are too thick
• Underbaking or uneven heat
• Not cooling them completely
• High humidity when storing

Always slice apples thin (about 1/8 inch), bake low and slow, flip them halfway, and let them cool on the tray to achieve a crisp texture. Store with a dry sachet (like uncooked rice in cheesecloth) to keep them from softening due to moisture.

Does Apple make chips in the US?

No, Apple Inc. (the tech company) does not produce edible apple chips. However, several food companies do make apple chips in the U.S., including Bare Snacks, Royal Ridge Fruit, and Watershed Foods. These manufacturers often source apples from regions like Washington State, which is America’s leading apple producer.

What is the healthiest chip to eat?

The healthiest chips are:

• Baked or dehydrated
• Low in sodium and fat
• Made with minimal, whole-food ingredients

Apple chips, especially those without added sugars or oils, rank among the healthiest options on the market. They offer a natural source of fiber and energy, unlike heavily processed potato chips that are fried and high in sodium.

How healthy are Bare Apple chips?

Bare apple chips are very healthy, particularly the original varieties, which are made from just one ingredient: apples. They are:

• Gluten-free
• Vegan
• No added sugar or preservatives
• Non-GMO

Bare is also known for baking its chips instead of frying them, which reduces fat content and preserves the apple’s natural flavor and nutrients. It’s a go-to brand for many health-conscious snackers.

Conclusion: Are Apple Chips Worth It?

Absolutely. Whether you make them at home or buy them from your favorite health-conscious brand, apple chips offer a satisfying crunch with real nutritional value. They’re fat-free, high in fiber, naturally sweet, and versatile enough to work in snack mixes, lunches, or even gourmet salads.

From selecting the right apple to understanding label claims, this guide has equipped you with everything you need to enjoy apple chips the smart way.

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