It’s so rewarding to make a snack that’s not only kid-friendly but simple enough to whip up in just a few minutes.
When school lets out, I know my kids are going to come home hungry and looking for something delicious, and this apple salsa is one of my go-to solutions.
It’s packed with warm, cozy flavors that feel like fall in a bowl, and the cinnamon sugar chips add a satisfying crunch.
Best of all, it’s a recipe I can throw together quickly with ingredients I already have on hand, making it a win for busy days.
Key Takeaways
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Main Ingredients: Apples, whole wheat tortillas, cinnamon, brown sugar
- Servings: 4-6
- Extras: Serve with vanilla yogurt, graham crackers, or as a topping for ice cream
Best Ever Apple Salsa Recipe
I started by peeling and dicing up a couple of apples – any variety will work, but I usually go for something with a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
Tossing the apples into a small saucepan with a bit of lemon juice, brown sugar, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, I set the heat to medium, and soon the kitchen smelled incredible.
The apples started releasing their juices, creating a sweet, syrupy base that I thickened by stirring in a little cornstarch mixed with water.
While the apples were cooking, I prepped the cinnamon sugar chips to get the full dessert chips and salsa feel.
I cut whole wheat tortillas into wedges, brushed them with a bit of melted butter, and then sprinkled on a mixture of sugar and cinnamon.
Popping them into the oven, I watch closely because they only take about five to eight minutes to turn golden and crispy.
Once everything was ready, I served the salsa warm with the chips, and it was such a cozy snack for a chilly day.
It also keeps well in the fridge, so I can serve it cold, too, for a different twist.
Ingredients
- 2 cups apples peeled and diced
- 5 whole wheat tortillas cut into wedges
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp water
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 ½ tbsp sugar
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, heat the apples, lemon juice, ¼ tsp cinnamon, and brown sugar; keep it on the heat until it's boiling and the apples start to release some liquid.
- In a small dish mix together the water and cornstarch and add to apples.
- Continue to heat until the sauce has thickened.
- Heat your oven to 400 degrees.
- Spread out your tortilla wedges on a greased baking sheet.
- In a small dish, combine the sugar and remaining cinnamon.
- Brush each apple wedge with butter and then sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
- Bake for 5-8 minutes or until chips are golden brown.
Notes
Nutrition
Serving Suggestions for Apple Salsa
Want some other ideas to serve up this apple salsa as a snack or tasty dessert?
Here are some serving suggestions for you:
- On Top of Pancakes or Waffles: Spoon over pancakes or waffles for a delicious breakfast.
- Paired with Vanilla Yogurt: Layer the salsa with vanilla yogurt in a parfait for a refreshing treat.
- With Oatmeal: Stir a spoonful into warm oatmeal for added sweetness and flavor.
- Over Ice Cream: Pour over vanilla or cinnamon ice cream as a fun dessert.
- With a Cheese Plate: Use it as a sweet contrast on a cheese board with sharp cheddar or brie.
- Mixed with Granola: Add to granola for an extra fruity crunch.
- In a Grilled Cheese: Spread a layer inside a grilled cheese sandwich with brie or cheddar.
- In a Tart Shell: Fill mini tart shells with fresh apple salsa, top with a dollop of whipped cream, and serve as bite-sized desserts for parties or gatherings.
- Paired with Graham Crackers: Serve with graham crackers for an extra-cinnamon treat.
- As a Topping for French Toast: Spoon over French toast for a breakfast twist.
FAQs
Can I use any type of apple for sweet apple salsa?
Yes! Any apple will work, but for a balanced flavor, try using a mix of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith.
My grocery store has an apple list like I’ve pictured above to show you the best baking apples.
Is it possible to make the chips without butter?
Yes, you can brush the tortillas with a light coating of olive oil or simply sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture without butter.
Can I add other fruits to the salsa?
Definitely! Diced pears or a handful of berries make a great addition for extra flavor and texture.
Can I make apple salsa in advance?
Yes, you can make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before serving.
I say it stays fresh for about 4-5 days, depending on your fridge and how fresh your apples were.
Can I use this recipe as a topping for desserts?
Yes! This apple salsa is great on everything from cheesecake to muffins.
I think next, I may mix the apple salsa with cream cheese and powdered sugar to make it a frosting on cake- I think it’d be great!
Can I make a regular salsa with apples in it?
Yes, you can! Tomato apple salsa is a delicious twist on traditional salsa, combining diced tomatoes and apples with ingredients like onions, cilantro, and a splash of lime juice.
It’s a fresh, sweet-savory option that’s perfect with tortilla chips or but I like the tomato apple salsa taste on top of grilled meats.
Final Thoughts
Making this apple pie “salsa” is a fun way to turn snack time into something special, especially for hungry kids after school.
Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or simply as an after-school treat, it’s a snack that’s bound to impress.
Grab the chips while they’re hot from the oven, and dig into this comforting, kid-friendly dish that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
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