Dessert Chips and Salsa

This sweet version of chips and salsa has turned countless birthday parties at our house into instant hits The crispy cinnamon chips pair perfectly with a refreshing colorful fruit salsa making it a fun and crowd-pleasing dessert for gatherings or after-school treats

The first time I made these dessert chips for my niece's sleepover they vanished in minutes Everyone started asking for the recipe so now it is our go-to for family game nights

Ingredients

• Flour tortillas: provide the base for the chips choose large sturdy tortillas for maximum crunch
• Unsalted butter: brushed on the tortillas creates crisp edges select fresh butter for best flavor
• Granulated sugar: sweetens the chips and helps the cinnamon stick use fine sugar for an even coating
• Ground cinnamon: gives warmth and depth to the chips try freshly ground cinnamon for extra fragrance
• Strawberries: add a juicy burst of color pick ripe berries for sweetness
• Kiwi: brings tropical tartness select firm but ripe kiwi for best texture
• Pineapple: offers bright acidity and sweetness opt for a ripe golden pineapple
• Apple: contributes a crisp bite use firm apples like Gala or Honeycrisp
• More granulated sugar: lightly sweetens the fruit salsa
• Lemon juice: balances flavors and keeps fruit vibrant always use freshly squeezed if possible
• Fresh mint (optional): adds a refreshing finish chop just before mixing for best aroma

Instructions

Prep the Oven and Baking Sheets:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit Set out two baking sheets lined with parchment paper which ensures easy cleanup and keeps chips from sticking

Make and Coat the Chips:

Brush each side of six tortillas evenly with melted unsalted butter It helps to use a pastry brush for full coverage Mix sugar and cinnamon then sprinkle the mixture generously across both sides of the tortillas pressing lightly so it adheres

Cut and Arrange:

With a sharp knife slice each tortilla into eight wedges Space them out on the baking sheets so no pieces overlap

Bake to Perfection:

Bake wedges for eight to ten minutes Flip each chip halfway through so both sides get crunchy Golden edges signal they are ready Let chips cool completely on a wire rack which locks in crispness

Mix the Fruit Salsa:

Dice strawberries kiwi pineapple and apple into small uniform pieces Toss together in a bowl Add sugar lemon juice and chopped mint if using Stir gently so fruit holds its shape

Let Flavors Mingle:

Cover the bowl and chill salsa in the refrigerator for at least ten minutes This makes the flavors blend and the salsa juicier

Serve and Enjoy:

Arrange crispy cinnamon chips on a platter Spoon the fruit salsa into a bowl and serve alongside for dipping Offer whipped cream or ice cream if you want a more indulgent treat

Save

I always find that the cinnamon sugar aroma brings everyone to the kitchen My own favorite is adding the fresh mint which reminds me of summer picnics and happy outdoor lunches with my family

Storage Tips

Once baked the chips stay crisp in an airtight container for up to three days Keep the salsa in the fridge for one to two days but it is freshest right after making For parties I often bake chips the day before and assemble salsa right before guests arrive

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap the fruit based on season Mango blueberries or peaches blend well If you need gluten-free chips use gluten-free tortillas Dairy-free guests can enjoy plant-based butter and everyone loves a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top of the fruit salsa for crunch

Serving Suggestions

Serve chips and salsa as a fun dessert at barbecues movie nights or family brunches Try pairing with vanilla yogurt or whipped cream For a festive touch arrange the chips in a circle around a bowl of salsa and let guests help themselves

Cultural and Historical Context

Dessert chips and salsa take inspiration from Latin American snacks but with a playful sweet twist Cinnamon sugar chips are a common treat in many US states especially in Tex-Mex cuisine The fruit salsa concept adds a fresh spin and makes it perfect for birthdays and potlucks

Seasonal Adaptations

Switch fruits depending on what is fresh Apples and pears work well in fall Add extra berries in summer For holidays dust chips with colored sugar Pick ripe fruits for maximum sweetness Adjust the cinnamon amount to suit your family's tastes Serve chips warm in winter for cozy comfort

Success Stories

This recipe is a hit with kids and adults alike Nearly every time I bring these to a party I get requests for the recipe Friends have started adding their kids' favorite fruits and making it for school events The fun dippable dessert always draws a crowd

Freezer Meal Conversion

Freeze unbaked tortilla wedges flat between layers of parchment Then bake straight from the freezer for a quick batch Salsa is best fresh but you can prep and freeze chopped fruits and mix before serving For make-ahead I freeze the chips and whip up salsa in minutes

Save

Finish your platter with a sprig of mint for a beautiful touch and enjoy this sweet twist on classic chips and salsa at your next gathering

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use different fruits in the salsa?

Yes, you can swap in mango, blueberries, peaches, or your favorite fruits for a unique flavor profile.

→ Are the chips best served warm or cold?

Chips can be enjoyed warm for extra crispness or at room temperature for convenience—both are delicious.

→ How can I make this dairy-free?

Simply use plant-based butter in place of regular butter for a dairy-free version.

→ Can nuts be added to the salsa?

Yes, sprinkle finely chopped nuts over the salsa for a crunchy twist, if you desire.

→ What dips pair well with the chips?

Alongside fruit salsa, whipped cream or vanilla ice cream make decadent additions for dipping.

→ Is this suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, all ingredients are vegetarian-friendly, making it an excellent choice for diverse gatherings.