Quick Air Fryer Cinnamon Banana Chips are a crunchy, sweet snack that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy! These chips come out perfectly crispy with a hint of cinnamon spice that makes them taste like a little treat. Using ripe bananas means you get just the right balance of natural sweetness with a warm cinnamon touch.
I love making these chips when I want a quick snack without reaching for something packaged and sugary. The air fryer makes the magic happen fast, and I don’t have to babysit the chips for long. Plus, the smell of cinnamon filling the kitchen is such a cozy bonus I look forward to every time!
These banana chips are great on their own, but I also like sprinkling them over my morning yogurt or oatmeal for a bit of extra crunch and flavor. They’re perfect for lunchbox snacks or a little afternoon pick-me-up. If you’re into simple, tasty, and healthy snacks, I think you’ll really enjoy these.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: I recommend using ripe but firm bananas. Overripe bananas can be too soft and may not crisp well. If you want a twist, you could try plantains for a more savory chip.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon gives these chips their warm, spicy note. If you’re out of cinnamon, a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice mix would also work well.
Sugar: The sugar is optional and adds a bit of extra sweetness and crunch. You can swap it for coconut sugar or even leave it out for a healthier version.
Oil: A light coating of coconut or neutral oil helps the chips crisp up nicely in the air fryer. If you want to skip oil, the chips will still crisp but might be a bit less golden.
How Do I Get Crispy Banana Chips Without Burning Them?
Air frying banana chips is quick but requires attention to get them crispy without burning.
- Slice evenly: Aim for consistent thickness (1/8 to 1/4 inch) to ensure even cooking.
- Single layer: Don’t overcrowd the basket. Overlapping slices trap steam and lead to soggy chips.
- Temperature control: 350°F is a great balance. Higher temps risk burning; lower temps may dry them out slowly and take longer.
- Shake or flip: Halfway through cooking, gently shake the basket or flip chips to crisp both sides evenly.
- Watch closely after 10 minutes: Banana chips can go from golden to burnt quickly, so keep an eye as they finish cooking.
Let the chips cool before storing to let them firm up perfectly. Following these tips helps you enjoy crunchy, sweet cinnamon banana chips every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – I prefer this because it crisps the banana slices evenly without extra oil.
- Sharp knife or mandoline – makes uniform slices so they cook evenly.
- Small mixing bowl – for tossing the bananas with cinnamon and sugar.
- Cooling rack or plate – to cool the chips and help them crisp up just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon for a different warm flavor.
- Sprinkle with a little sea salt or sea salt flakes after cooking for a sweet-salty combo.
- Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup before air frying for extra sweetness.
- Mix in chopped almonds, walnuts, or shredded coconut before cooking for added crunch and flavor.
Quick Air Fryer Cinnamon Banana Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 ripe but firm bananas
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 tsp coconut oil or neutral oil (optional, for a slight crispier texture)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 10-15 minutes to air fry. You’ll spend a few minutes slicing and seasoning the bananas before they crisp up nicely in the air fryer. Overall, it’s a quick snack that comes together in under 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer
Start by setting your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Let it warm up for 3 to 5 minutes so it’s ready for the banana slices.
2. Prepare the Bananas
Peel the bananas and slice them into even rounds, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Try to keep the slices uniform to help them cook evenly.
3. Season the Slices
Put the banana slices in a bowl and gently toss them with the coconut oil if you’re using it. Then sprinkle the cinnamon and sugar over the slices. Toss them lightly again to coat each piece evenly with the cinnamon-sugar mix.
4. Air Fry the Banana Chips
Arrange the banana slices in a single layer inside the air fryer basket or tray. Avoid stacking them so they crisp rather than steam. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the chips halfway to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye after 10 minutes to avoid burning.
5. Cool and Enjoy
Once golden and crispy, remove the chips from the air fryer and place them on a cooling rack or plate. They’ll become a bit firmer as they cool. Eat them right away or store in an airtight container once fully cooled.
Can I Use Overripe Bananas for This Recipe?
It’s best to use ripe but firm bananas. Overripe bananas are too soft and may turn mushy instead of crisping up nicely.
Can I Make These Banana Chips Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare and air fry the chips in advance, then store them in an airtight container. They stay crispy for about 2-3 days if kept dry.
How Should I Store Leftover Banana Chips?
Store completely cooled banana chips in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid moisture to keep them crunchy.
Can I Substitute the Cinnamon With Other Spices?
Absolutely! Try nutmeg, pumpkin pie spice, or even a pinch of chili powder for a different flavor twist.
