Crispy, sweet, and just a little bit addictivethese Cinnamon Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips turn ripe bananas into the kind of snack you actually want to reach for. They’re crunchy, lightly spiced, and way better than anything you’d buy in a bag.
I started testing banana chips back in 2021 when I wanted something crunchy that wasn’t loaded with oil or preservatives. The trick? Slice them thinlike, really thinand don’t skip the light oil mist before adding the cinnamon sugar. That’s what locks in the flavor and gives you that golden, crispy edge every single time.
Cinnamon Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips Recipe Easy
Ingredients
Method
- Peel the bananas and cut them into thin, even slices about 1/8 inch thick to ensure they crisp nicely.
- Set your air fryer to 330°F (165°C) and prepare the basket by lightly spraying with cooking spray or lining with perforated parchment paper.
- Combine the coconut sugar or brown sugar with ground cinnamon in a small bowl and stir well.
- Gently toss the banana slices in the cinnamon-sugar mixture so each piece is coated lightly and evenly.
- Arrange the slices in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, making sure none overlap, and cook for 10 to 14 minutes, flipping halfway for even crisping.
- Once the edges turn golden and crisp, check if the chips are done; if needed, cook a few minutes longer depending on thickness and model.
- Transfer the banana chips to a cooling rack and let them sit for 5 to 10 minutes to become even crispier before serving.
Notes
- Choose firm bananas to avoid mushy chips.
- Slice the bananas evenly to cook uniformly.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed to keep chips crispy.
Why You’ll Love These Crispy Banana Chips
These little rounds hit that perfect sweet spot between snack and treatwithout any guilt. They’re naturally sweet, lightly spiced, and way more satisfying than anything you’d grab off a store shelf.
- Takes minutes: From slicing to snacking in under 30 minutes total
- Just 3 ingredients: Bananas, cinnamon, and a little sugarthat’s it
- Kid-approved crunch: My test batches disappeared faster than I could cool them
- No deep frying: The air fryer does all the work while you clean up
What You’ll Need (and Why Each One Matters)
The magic here is in the simplicity. You’re working with bananas that are ripe but still firmyellow with just a few spots. Too soft and they’ll turn mushy instead of crispy. The coconut sugar adds a subtle caramel note, while the cinnamon brings warmth without overpowering the fruit.
Pro Tip: If your bananas are starting to get too spotty, save them for banana bread. You want them firm enough to slice cleanly.
The Secret to Perfect Crispness
Here’s what I learned after testing dozens of batches: thickness matters more than anything else. Aim for about 1/8 inchthin enough to crisp up but not so paper-thin that they burn. A mandoline slicer makes this foolproof, but a sharp knife and a steady hand work just fine.
Once sliced, toss them gently with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. You want a light, even coatnot clumps. Then lay them flat in the air fryer basket with space between each chip. Overlapping equals soggy spots, and nobody wants that.
Note: Flip them halfway through so both sides get that golden, crispy edge.
Timing and Temperature Guide
| Step | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat Air Fryer | 330°F | 3 minutes |
| First Side | 330°F | 5–7 minutes |
| Flip & Continue | 330°F | 5–7 minutes |
| Cool on Rack | Room temp | 5–10 minutes |
Smart Swaps and Tweaks
Want to switch things up? Brown sugar gives you a deeper molasses flavor, while coconut sugar keeps it lighter and more caramel-like. Both work beautifully with the cinnamon.
| Ingredient | Swap Option | What Changes |
|---|---|---|
| Coconut Sugar | Brown Sugar | Deeper, richer sweetness |
| Ground Cinnamon | Pumpkin Pie Spice | Warmer, more complex flavor |
| Cooking Spray | Skip It | Still works, may stick slightly |
Troubleshooting Tips
If your chips aren’t crisping up, they’re likely too thick or crowded in the basket. Give them space and slice thinner next time. On the flip side, if they’re burning at the edges, lower the temp to 320°F and add a minute or two to the cook time.
Pro Tip: They’ll feel slightly soft right out of the air fryer but will crisp up as they coolpatience pays off here.
How to Serve and Store
These chips are perfect straight off the cooling rack, but they’re also great tucked into lunchboxes, sprinkled over yogurt, or served alongside a cheese board for contrast. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 daysthough honestly, they rarely last that long.
- Snack solo: Grab a handful for an afternoon pick-me-up
- Top your breakfast: Crush them over oatmeal or smoothie bowls
- Pack for travel: They hold up beautifully in a zip-top bag
If they lose their crunch after a day or two, pop them back in the air fryer at 300°F for 2–3 minutes to revive them.
Join me on for more irresistible recipes and daily cooking inspiration Pinterest!
FAQs ( Cinnamon-Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips )
What type of bananas work best for this recipe?
Use firm, slightly underripe bananas that are yellow with minimal brown spots. They hold their shape better during air frying and won’t turn mushy. Overly ripe bananas will become too soft and sticky in the air fryer.
How thin should I slice the bananas?
Slice bananas to 1/8-inch thickness for the crispiest results. Thicker slices take longer to crisp and may remain chewy in the center. Use a sharp knife or mandoline slicer for even, consistent cuts that cook uniformly.
Can I make these chips without oil?
Yes, you can skip the oil, but the cinnamon-sugar mixture won’t stick as well to the banana slices. The chips will still crisp up nicely in the air fryer. Try lightly misting with cooking spray as an alternative to oil.
How long do homemade banana chips stay fresh?
Store completely cooled chips in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature. They’ll gradually lose crispness over time. For best texture, eat within 2-3 days or re-crisp in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes.
What temperature and time work best?
Cook at 350°F for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Thinner slices need less time, while thicker ones require the full 12 minutes. Check frequently during the last few minutes to prevent burning and achieve your desired crispness level.
You’ll love how these Cinnamon Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips turn outcrispy, golden, and ready in about twenty minutes flat. They smell incredible while they’re cooking, and that first bite? Pure crunch with a hint of warmth. It’s the kind of snack that makes you feel smart for making it yourself.
Try swapping in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a little extra warmthsomething I picked up from testing spice blends in culinary school. If they soften overnight, just pop them back in at 300°F for two minutes and they’ll crisp right back up. Serve them alongside almond butter or tuck a handful into trail mix for something a little different.
If you make these, snap a picture and tag usI’d love to see your batch. Did you grow up with banana chips from a jar, or is this your first time making them at home? Either way, save this one for your next movie night or lunchbox surprise. Happy snacking, friend.
