Cinnamon-Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips

As a baker, I’m always experimenting with ways to transform simple ingredients into something memorable. One afternoon, while staring at a few overripe bananas on my counter, I felt inspired to create a snack that was both nostalgic and wholesome. That’s how my Cinnamon-Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips were born. They reminded me of the crispy fruit chips I used to buy as a kid, only now I could make them fresh in my own kitchen, with no added preservatives and a flavor that’s even better. It’s amazing how the warmth of cinnamon and a touch of sugar can elevate humble banana slices into such an irresistible treat.

You’re going to love this recipe for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make with just a handful of pantry staples. There’s no need to deep fry anything—your air fryer does all the crisping work for you, saving you time and mess. It’s a healthier alternative to store-bought chips, perfect for guilt-free snacking. Whether you’re packing lunches, craving a crunchy topping for your yogurt, or simply looking for a late-night bite, these banana chips are always a hit.

This recipe is wonderfully versatile. You can adjust the sweetness, add your favorite spices like nutmeg or cardamom, or even toss the chips in a pinch of sea salt for a sweet-and-savory balance. The chips can also be used in trail mix, crumbled over oatmeal, or served as a snack for kids and adults alike. Plus, they stay crisp for days when stored properly—though I’ll admit, they rarely last that long in my house!

Another reason I keep coming back to this recipe is how affordable it is. Bananas are one of the most budget-friendly fruits out there. With just a few more low-cost ingredients—like ground cinnamon, granulated sugar, and a dash of lemon juice—you can create a batch of chips that feels gourmet without the price tag. No fancy gadgets or complicated steps are required, making this a perfect beginner-friendly recipe that delivers impressive results.

Ingredients for Cinnamon-Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips:

• 2–3 ripe but firm bananas

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• Non-stick cooking spray (optional, for air fryer basket)

How to Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips
How to prepare this recipe. Step-by-step instructions for preparation. Quick and easy. Customizable. Popular with many people.

Making these Cinnamon-Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips couldn’t be simpler. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a naturally sweet and crispy snack that’s loved by kids, adults, and everyone in between. I often prepare these when I need something quick, healthy, and delicious. The process is straightforward, and it only takes a few steps before your kitchen fills with the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Select and slice the bananas
Start with 2–3 ripe but firm bananas. Overripe bananas are too soft and won’t hold their shape well during air frying. Peel each banana and slice them evenly into thin rounds—about 1/8-inch thick. Using a mandoline slicer ensures even thickness, which helps all the chips cook uniformly.

Step 2: Toss with lemon juice
Immediately after slicing, place the banana slices in a bowl and gently toss them with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. This step prevents the slices from browning too much and helps them stay fresh-looking and crisp. Don’t skip it—it makes a noticeable difference.

Step 3: Mix the cinnamon-sugar coating
In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor or a lower-sugar version, feel free to adjust the ratio to your taste. You can also try coconut sugar or a sugar substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake.

Step 4: Coat the banana slices
Gently lay the banana slices flat on a clean plate or parchment paper. Lightly sprinkle both sides with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. For a lighter dusting, you can use a sifter or a fine mesh strainer. Be careful not to oversaturate them—just enough for flavor and caramelization.

Step 5: Preheat and prepare the air fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C) for 2–3 minutes. This helps the chips cook more evenly. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper designed for air fryers to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Air fry the banana chips
Arrange the banana slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each slice. You may need to cook in batches depending on your air fryer’s capacity. Air fry at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes, then carefully flip each slice. Continue air frying for another 8–12 minutes, checking every couple of minutes during the final stages. The chips should be golden and crisp, but not burnt.

Step 7: Cool and crisp
Once cooked, transfer the banana chips to a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels. Let them cool completely—this is when they firm up and become delightfully crunchy. If they’re still a bit soft, you can return them to the air fryer for a few more minutes.

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Quick and Easy

This recipe is perfect for those moments when you need something quick but still want to enjoy something homemade. From start to finish, you can have a batch ready in under 30 minutes. Most of the ingredients are already in your kitchen, so there’s no need for extra trips to the store.

Customizable

You can absolutely make this recipe your own. Try swapping the cinnamon for pumpkin spice in autumn, or add a tiny pinch of cayenne for a subtle kick. For a more indulgent version, drizzle the chips with melted dark chocolate once they’re cooled.

Popular with Many People

Whether I serve these banana chips to my family or bring them along to potlucks, they always disappear quickly. Kids love the sweet, crispy texture, and adults appreciate the fact that they’re a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks. They’ve become a regular feature in lunchboxes, weekend snacks, and even as an after-dinner treat.

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FAQs

Can I use overripe bananas for this recipe?
It’s best to use ripe but firm bananas. Overripe bananas are too soft and will not hold their shape during slicing or cooking. They also tend to become mushy instead of crisping up. For this recipe, firm bananas work best to ensure a crunchy final result.

How thin should the banana slices be?
Slicing them to about 1/8 inch thick is ideal. Uniform thickness is key to even cooking. If the slices are too thick, they won’t crisp properly. A mandoline slicer works well to get consistent slices, but a sharp knife and a steady hand will do just fine.

Can I store the banana chips for later?
Yes, once completely cooled, store the chips in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and crispy for up to 5 days. To keep them even crisper, consider placing a small piece of parchment paper between layers or adding a silica packet to absorb moisture.

Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
While the air fryer is the quickest and most efficient method, you can also bake the banana slices in the oven at a low temperature (around 250°F/120°C) for 1.5 to 2 hours, flipping halfway through. Keep in mind that the results may vary in texture compared to air frying.

Are there healthier options for the sugar?
Definitely. You can use coconut sugar, monk fruit sweetener, or any granulated sugar substitute of your choice. These alternatives still offer great flavor while reducing refined sugar intake. You can also skip the sugar entirely and just sprinkle cinnamon for a low-sugar version.

What can I serve these banana chips with?
These banana chips are great on their own, but you can also use them as a topping for yogurt, smoothie bowls, oatmeal, or even ice cream. They also work well in homemade trail mix or packed into lunchboxes for a crunchy, naturally sweet snack.