Looking for a naturally sweet, crunchy snack that toddlers will actually eat? These baked apple cinnamon chips are a cozy and wholesome treat that feels like something straight from grandma’s kitchen. Made with just two simple ingredients—apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon—they’re oven-baked until perfectly crisp. Even better, they’re free from added sugar, which makes them a go-to choice for snack time, lunchboxes, or even a light dessert.
What makes these baked apple cinnamon chips such a win for toddlers? For example, the texture is soft enough for little mouths but still has a satisfying crunch. Plus, the cinnamon adds just the right hint of warmth without overpowering the apples’ natural sweetness. That’s why they’re perfect for picky eaters or kids who shy away from raw fruit. In addition, apples are full of fiber and vitamin C—so you’re offering something that’s both tasty and nourishing.
As a bonus, this snack is easy to prep and adjust depending on your child’s age. Because the baking time determines whether the chips are crisp or soft, you can make them more chewy for early eaters or extra crunchy for toddlers who love a little bite. Try calling them ‘apple chip clouds’ or ‘crunchy pie bites’ to make snack time feel fun and familiar. As a result, these baked apple cinnamon chips might just become your toddler’s new favorite treat!
Ingredients You Need
These baked apple cinnamon chips are made with just a few simple ingredients that bring flavor and nutrition toddlers love:
Honey (optional): For older toddlers, a light drizzle of honey adds extra sweetness. However, skip this for babies under 1 year.
Apples: Sliced thinly, apples crisp up beautifully in the oven and provide natural sweetness along with fiber and vitamin C.
Cinnamon: A gentle sprinkle of cinnamon adds warm, cozy flavor without needing added sugar.
Ingredient Swaps
These apple chips are naturally gluten-free, egg-free, and dairy-free, which makes them perfect for a wide range of little eaters. For example, you can:
Use pear slices instead of apples for a fun twist.
Leave out the honey to keep it baby-safe or add a pinch of coconut sugar for older kids.
Try pumpkin pie spice or nutmeg instead of cinnamon for a seasonal variation.
Because this recipe is so flexible, it’s easy to adapt for allergies or preferences!
Step-by-Step Instructions
These baked apple cinnamon chips are simple to prepare, and toddlers can even help with the cinnamon sprinkling!
Step 1. Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C). A low temp helps the apples dry out slowly without burning.
Step 2. Arrange the apple slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 3. Sprinkle with cinnamon and drizzle with honey if using. Let your toddler help with this part!
Step 4. Bake for 1–2 hours, turning the slices once, until they’re crisp and golden.
Step 5. Let them cool completely before serving—this helps them crisp up even more. Enjoy this snack fresh from the oven or save some for later!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make baked apple cinnamon chips ahead of time?
Yes! These store well and can be made in big batches. As a bonus, they don’t need refrigeration, which makes them even more convenient for on-the-go snacking.
Are these chips safe for babies?
They can be! Just bake them for less time so they stay soft and skip the honey if your baby is under 12 months.
Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely. For example, Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp all work well. Some may be sweeter or crispier than others.
Do I need a mandoline slicer?
Not at all—just slice as evenly and thinly as you can with a sharp knife.
Can I freeze baked apple cinnamon chips?
It’s best to store them at room temperature. Freezing can make them chewy instead of crisp.
What can I serve it with?
These baked apple cinnamon chips are tasty all on their own, but they also pair well with other toddler favorites. For example, try serving them with a small bowl of full-fat yogurt, a nut-free dip like sunflower butter, or alongside a smoothie for a well-rounded snack. Plus, they make a great lunchbox addition with some cheese or sliced fruit on the side.
How to Store
- Store baked apple cinnamon chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Keep them in a cool, dry place to help maintain their crunch.
- If they get soft, you can re-crisp them in a low oven (around 200°F or 90°C) for a few minutes.
- These chips are not freezer-friendly, as freezing tends to make them chewy.
- For younger babies, you can bake a few slices for less time and store the softer version in the fridge for 1–2 days.
Helpful Hints
- Slice apples as thinly and evenly as possible for the crispiest result.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Let your toddler help sprinkle cinnamon for a fun, safe kitchen task.
- Try naming them “crunchy apple clouds” or “pie chips” to make snack time exciting.
- Make a double batch—these disappear fast!
Baked Apple Cinnamon Chips
Equipment
- Sharp knife or mandoline
- Cutting board
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 apples thinly sliced
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp honey optional, skip for babies under 1
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C).
- Slice apples thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline. Try to make slices even for best results.
- Arrange the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon and drizzle with honey if using.
- Bake for 1–2 hours, flipping halfway through, until the slices are golden and feel crisp at the edges.
- Let cool completely before serving—this helps the chips firm up.
- Serve and enjoy! These are perfect for snack time or lunchboxes.