Quick Air Fryer Cinnamon Banana Chips are a perfect little snack that’s crispy, sweet, and just a bit spicy with the cinnamon. These chips are made by slicing bananas thin and air frying them until they turn golden and crunchy. It’s a simple way to take everyday bananas and turn them into something fun and tasty.
I love making these chips because they come together so fast, and the air fryer does most of the work, so you don’t have to keep an eye on the stove or oven. Sprinkling cinnamon on top before air frying adds just the right touch of warmth and flavor. Whenever I need a snack that feels a bit special but still healthy, I reach for this recipe.
These cinnamon banana chips are great on their own or sprinkled over yogurt or oatmeal for a little extra crunch. I also like to pack them in snack bags for when I’m on the go—they hold up nicely and satisfy that sweet craving without going overboard. It’s a simple snack that feels like a treat every time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: Choose bananas that are ripe but firm. Overripe ones will be too soft and may not crisp well. If you can’t find firm bananas, plantains work too and give a sturdier chip.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon gives warmth and spice. If you prefer, try cinnamon sugar blends or even a pinch of nutmeg for a twist.
Sugar: The granulated sugar is optional for extra sweetness. For a healthier take, you can skip it or use a natural sweetener like coconut sugar.
Cooking spray or oil: Just a light coating helps keep the chips from sticking. Use any neutral oil you like—coconut or avocado oil work well too.
How Do You Get Crispy Banana Chips in the Air Fryer?
The key to crispy chips lies in slicing evenly and cooking in a single layer. Thin slices (about 1/8 inch) dry out faster and crisp better.
- Slice bananas uniformly using a sharp knife or a mandoline for even thickness.
- Pat slices dry before air frying to remove moisture.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; let air circulate around each chip.
- Flip halfway through cooking to crisp both sides evenly.
- Allow chips to cool after air frying—they crisp more as they cool.
Following these tips, you’ll get perfectly crunchy, lightly spiced banana chips every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – I recommend this because it makes the chips crispy without much oil.
- Sharp knife or mandoline – helps slice bananas evenly for consistent crispiness.
- Small bowl – to mix cinnamon and sugar easily.
- Cooking spray or brush – for lightly greasing the air fryer basket and preventing sticking.
- Paper towels – to pat bananas dry and remove excess moisture.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice with the cinnamon for a warm, spicy flavor.
- Mix in a little vanilla extract with the sugar for extra sweetness and aroma.
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts or cacao nibs after cooking for crunch and richness.
- Use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a slightly caramel-like taste.
Quick Air Fryer Cinnamon Banana Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 ripe but firm bananas
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- Cooking spray or a small amount of oil for greasing the air fryer basket
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes of prep time and 8-10 minutes of air frying. Overall, you’ll have delicious cinnamon banana chips ready in about 15 minutes, making it a quick and easy snack option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Bananas:
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Peel the bananas and slice them into thin, even rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. This helps them crisp up nicely. Pat the slices gently with a paper towel to remove any extra moisture.
2. Mixing the Cinnamon Sugar:
In a small bowl, mix together the ground cinnamon and granulated sugar. This will give your chips a warm, sweet flavor. Set it aside for sprinkling later.
3. Air Frying the Banana Chips:
Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking. Place the banana slices in a single layer inside the basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Depending on your air fryer size, you might need to cook in batches. Air fry the bananas for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure both sides become golden and crisp.
4. Adding Cinnamon Sugar and Cooling:
When the banana chips are golden and crisp around the edges, remove them carefully and place them in a bowl. While still warm, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the chips and toss gently to coat evenly. Let the chips cool a few minutes—they will crisp up even more as they cool.
5. Serving and Storing:
Enjoy your cinnamon banana chips right away for the best crunch. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container once fully cooled to keep them fresh and crispy.
Can I Use Overripe Bananas for This Recipe?
It’s best to use ripe but firm bananas. Overripe bananas tend to be too soft and won’t crisp up well in the air fryer.
Can I Make These Banana Chips Ahead of Time?
You can prepare and air fry the chips in advance, but store them in an airtight container once completely cooled to maintain their crispness. They’re best eaten within 2-3 days.
How Do I Store Leftover Banana Chips?
Keep leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating, as moisture can make them soggy.
Can I Skip the Sugar or Use a Substitute?
Yes! Skipping sugar works fine for a less sweet snack, or you can substitute with coconut sugar or a natural sweetener if you prefer.
