Did you know that nearly 60% of bananas purchased in the U.S. end up overripe and wasted? What if you could turn those browning bananas into a crave-worthy snack that’s both healthy and satisfying? Enter Cinnamon-Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips—a quick, guilt-free treat packed with flavor and crunch. Unlike traditional fried snacks, these air-fried banana chips are low in fat, rich in potassium, and naturally sweetened. Whether you’re a busy parent, fitness enthusiast, or someone who just loves sweet snacks, this recipe delivers on taste, nutrition, and convenience.
Ingredients List
To make Cinnamon-Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips, you’ll need the following:
- 2 ripe but firm bananas (not overly soft or mushy)
- 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil (can substitute with olive oil or avocado oil)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (swap with monk fruit sweetener or stevia for sugar-free option)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: a pinch of sea salt for balance
Pro Tip: For a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne or nutmeg.
Timing
Timing is everything for perfect banana chips. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 10–12 minutes per batch
- Total time: Approximately 20 minutes
That’s 40% faster than baking in a conventional oven—and far healthier than deep-frying!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking and the right crisp texture from the get-go.
Step 2: Slice the Bananas
Peel and slice the bananas into uniform 1/8-inch rounds. Try to keep them as consistent as possible to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Mix the Coating
In a bowl, combine the melted coconut oil, sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir until it forms a smooth, aromatic glaze.
Step 4: Coat the Banana Slices
Gently toss the banana slices in the mixture until each piece is evenly coated. Don’t oversaturate, as too much oil can make the chips soggy.
Step 5: Arrange in Air Fryer Basket
Place the coated slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping to ensure maximum crispiness.
Step 6: Cook and Flip
Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Watch closely after the 8-minute mark to avoid burning.
Step 7: Cool and Crisp
Let the banana chips cool on a wire rack. They’ll continue to crisp as they cool—don’t skip this step!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 1 banana’s worth of chips):
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Potassium: 350mg
These banana chips are naturally gluten-free, vegan, and free from artificial preservatives.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want to take your banana chips to the next health level? Try these swaps:
- Oil-Free Version: Skip the oil and dry-coat with cinnamon and sugar for a low-fat alternative.
- Sugar-Free: Use erythritol or monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar.
- Extra Fiber: Add a teaspoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds before air frying.
- Low-Carb: Use unripe green bananas, which are lower in sugar and higher in resistant starch.
Serving Suggestions
These Cinnamon-Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips are as versatile as they are tasty:
- Snacking: Pack them in lunchboxes or gym bags.
- Dessert Topping: Crumble over Greek yogurt, ice cream, or oatmeal.
- Party Treat: Serve with a chocolate dip or nut butter.
- Breakfast Boost: Pair with granola and fresh berries for a wholesome start.
Personal Tip: Sprinkle a few over a smoothie bowl for extra crunch and a pop of flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure success:
- Using Overripe Bananas: Too soft and they’ll turn mushy instead of crisp.
- Skipping the Flip: Uneven cooking results in chewy chips.
- Overcrowding the Basket: Leads to soggy slices.
- Not Monitoring the Time: Chips can go from golden to burnt in under a minute.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store your banana chips the right way to preserve their crispiness:
- Cool Completely: Always let them cool fully before storing.
- Airtight Container: Use glass or BPA-free plastic with a tight seal.
- Shelf Life: Best enjoyed within 5 days.
- Freezer Option: Freeze for up to 1 month. Re-crisp in air fryer for 2–3 minutes before serving.
Conclusion
Cinnamon-Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips are the ultimate snack—quick, healthy, and irresistibly delicious. With just a handful of ingredients and under 20 minutes, you can transform ripe bananas into a crunchy treat that hits all the right notes.
Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out! Leave a comment, rate the recipe, or subscribe to our blog for more wholesome snack ideas.
