Apple crisps and something way better than nutella

Every single year, there’s a guaranteed gift at the bottom of my Christmas stocking. A big shiny apple. It’s a tradition that comes from when my Mum was little and her great-aunt in Canada would send over a box of huge apples at Christmas. So to me, apples are very Christmassy, hence today’s recipe for apple crisps.

They’re a healthy treat alone and extra festive with a sprinkle of mixed spice, but I know how to make them absolutely awesome. Lindt’s Crema Nocciola. Think nutella, but more indulgent and way more luxurious. Dip an apple crisp in to some or drizzle it on with a spoon, it’s the perfect pairing.

To start making the crisps, take your apples and give them a good wash then twist the stalks off. These imperfect beauties are the first crop from the trees in my Parent’s garden. They are quite tart but I love how that comes through in the crisps, especially with the Crema Nocciola (or Lindtella as it’s become known in our house).

Now preheat your oven to 180 Celcius and start slicing.

You’ll need a mandoline to achieve thin slices that dry out evenly.  I used the Chef’s Slicer from OXO (£60) for this recipe but for a more affordable, less bulky option, their handheld mandoline (£15) would handle these apples with ease. It’s best to leave the apple core in as you slice and just brush away any pips before baking them. Less hassle and more apple.

Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or greaseproof paper and lay the slices in a single layer. If you’d like to sprinkle any spices on them, do that now. Bake for around 25 minutes but keep an eye on them towards the end as all apples have different moisture content. The edges will start to curl up when they’re nearly done.

Take them out to cool on a rack, then it’s just a case of enjoying what you’ve made. I’d love to tell you that these will keep for a week, but unfortunately mine never have made it that far. They do tend to lose their crispness so they’re best eaten straight away with something naughty to drizzle/dip them with.

I feel pretty strongly about bloggers being transparent with readers about gifted items or sponsored content. So here is the down low. Lindt sent me a package of samples to test out and the Crema Nocciola made my hit list. I chose to share it with you because I really believe it’s a great product, I haven’t been paid in any way to say that. Seriously, it’s just that good. Also, you may have noticed that I work with OXO products quite regularly and that’s a partnership I hope to keep. Their kitchen tools and gadgets are especially good if you struggle with grip or dexterity. Again, I’m never paid to include them or talk about them but I am given samples.