Apple chips can take some time and patience but they are worth the time and effort. A variety of apples can be used however, I have found that sweeter apples like honey crisp or royal gala will be naturally sweet when dehydrated. While apples such as granny smith or spartan will be less sweet and a little on the tart side. There is no need to add any sweetener to the apples before dehydrating because during the process the natural sugars are intensified.
It is important to wash and dry your apples well. Some people prefer to peel the apples as the skin will get a little tougher but it is entirely up to you. Once peeled, I like to core the apples but it is not necessary. Slice the apples using a mandolin or use a nice to cut into thin rounds. Usually you get 6-8 slices per apple depending on the size.
An important step if you prefer the brighter apple rings, soak apple rings in a solution of 1/4 cup lemon juice to 1 litre cold water. This will prevent the apples from browning.
Whether dehydrating in the oven or dehydrator it is better to over do the apples than leave them a tad moist because this can lead to mold growth.
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USING A DEHYDRATOR
Ingredients:
5 lb apples ( you can do as many apples and adjust the recipe)
3 Tbsp cinnamon
1/4 cup lemon juice (optional)
Directions:
1. Wash, peel and core apples.
2. Slice apples thinly and evenly (1/4 inch).
3. If desired, soak slices in a mix of 1/4 cup lemon juice and 1 quart water to avoid any browning. Make sure to shake off the access water as much as possible before the next step.
4. Place rings on dehydrator trays leaving a little space around each slice for air circulation.
5. Sprinkle slices with a light dusting of cinnamon.
6. Dehydrate at 135°F for 6 to 8 hours.
7. Check apples for any moisture on outside and inside. The apples should feel try and slightly spongy but should hold any moisture. Allow them to fully cool before storing them
8. Can be stored in a dry, cool, dark place for several months (if you don’t eat them all!)
DEHYDRATING IN THE OVEN
Follow all the steps as above except that you will be using the oven
1.Preheat oven to 15o degrees Fahrenheit
2. Set oven at the lowest temperature, about 150°F (65°C) and prop door open with a wooden spoon to allow for air circulation and moisture to escape the oven.
3. Arrange apple slices on wire baking or cooling racks and position in oven. Or position apples directly on clean oven racks.
4. Bake for 5 to 8 hours. Times vary due to humidity levels, ovens, apple varieties, slice thickness, etc. Just keep checking.
The oven will be on for sometime so make sure that you do not leave unattended.
