Easy Cinnamon-Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about the scent of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the kitchen—especially when it’s mingling with the caramelized sweetness of bananas. I first fell in love with banana chips during a lazy Sunday afternoon when I was craving something crispy, sweet, and just a little indulgent. Store-bought versions never quite hit the spot for me—too oily, too hard, or just lacking that homemade warmth. So, I set out to make my own, and after a few experiments, this air fryer version became an instant favorite. It’s quick, fuss-free, and fills the house with the coziest aroma. Perfect for snacking, topping yogurt, or even sneaking straight from the tray!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple ingredients feels like opening a little treasure chest of flavor—each one plays its part perfectly:

• 2–3 ripe but firm bananas – You want them sweet but not mushy, so they hold their shape when sliced.
• 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil (or neutral oil) – Just enough to help the spices cling and crisp things up.
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar – A light sprinkle to enhance the banana’s natural sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Warm, fragrant, and absolutely essential.
• A pinch of salt – Trust me, it balances everything beautifully.

That’s it! No fancy ingredients, no complicated steps—just pure, simple goodness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the bananas: Slice them into even ¼-inch rounds. Too thin, and they’ll burn; too thick, and they won’t crisp up properly. A little uniformity goes a long way here!
2. Toss with love: In a bowl, gently coat the banana slices with melted coconut oil, then sprinkle with the sugar, cinnamon, and salt. I like to use my hands for this—it feels more intimate, like tucking them into a sweet, spiced blanket.
3. Air fry in batches: Arrange the slices in a single layer in your air fryer basket (no overlapping!). Cook at 350°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp at the edges. They’ll firm up more as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem a tad soft at first.
4. Let them rest: Transfer the chips to a wire rack or parchment paper to cool completely. This is the hardest part—resisting the urge to eat them all immediately!

Tip: If your air fryer tends to run hot, check them at the 6-minute mark to avoid over-browning. Every machine is a little different, just like every home cook!

There’s something magical about the way cinnamon and sugar transform humble bananas into crispy, golden bites of happiness. These air fryer banana chips are not only ridiculously easy to make but also endlessly customizable. Let me share some pro tips and variations to make this recipe your own!

Pro Tips & Variations

• Perfect Thickness: Slice your bananas about 1/8-inch thick for the ideal crispiness – too thin and they’ll burn, too thick and they won’t crisp up properly
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to your cinnamon-sugar mix for extra warmth
• Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over cooled chips for an indulgent treat
• Savory Option: Skip the sugar and try a sprinkle of chili powder and lime zest for a surprising kick
• Oil-Free Version: For a lighter option, skip the oil spray – the bananas will still crisp up nicely

What to Serve With Banana Chips

These versatile chips are wonderful on their own, but here are some delicious pairing ideas:

• As a crunchy topping for yogurt or oatmeal
• Alongside a cheese board for a sweet contrast
• Crumbled over ice cream for texture
• Pack them in lunchboxes for a healthier sweet treat
• With afternoon tea or coffee instead of cookies

Storage & Reheating Tips

To keep your banana chips at their crispy best:

• Store completely cooled chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days
• For longer storage (up to 2 weeks), keep them in the refrigerator
• If they lose their crispness, pop them back in the air fryer at 300°F for 2-3 minutes to revive them
• Freezing isn’t recommended as it changes the texture

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular bananas instead of plantains?

Absolutely! Regular bananas work beautifully in this recipe. They’ll be slightly sweeter and have a more delicate texture than plantains.

Why are my banana chips not crispy?

This usually happens if the slices are too thick or if they’re overcrowded in the air fryer. Make sure to slice them thinly and arrange in a single layer with some space between pieces.

Can I make these in a regular oven?

Yes! Bake at 200°F (95°C) for about 2 hours, flipping halfway through. The low temperature helps them dry out without burning.

Are these banana chips healthy?

Much healthier than store-bought versions! With no deep frying and minimal added sugar, they’re a great way to satisfy sweet cravings while getting potassium and fiber.

There’s something so comforting about the aroma of cinnamon and bananas filling your kitchen, isn’t there? These little crispy bites are proof that the simplest ingredients can create the most satisfying treats. Whether you’re making them for a quick snack, a lunchbox surprise, or just because you deserve something sweet, I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your home as it does to mine. Happy air frying!