Cinnamon-Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips

When I was growing up, my grandmother always had a small tin of snacks tucked away in the kitchen. One of my absolute favorites was her homemade banana chips. They were crispy, slightly chewy in the center, and sprinkled with just enough sugar to feel like a treat. But the best part? The comforting warmth of cinnamon that lingered in every bite.

Over time, I discovered that banana chips are a cherished snack across many cultures—whether sun-dried in Southeast Asia or fried to golden perfection in Caribbean kitchens. As modern cooking trends have shifted toward healthier, less processed options, air fryers have become the unsung hero of homemade snacking. And that’s exactly where these Cinnamon-Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips shine.

This recipe is all about embracing simplicity, tradition, and balance. It’s a healthier alternative to store-bought versions, skipping the additives and excess oil, while still delivering that nostalgic crunch we crave. With just a few pantry staples, you can recreate the magic of homemade banana chips with a cinnamon twist—ideal for cozy afternoons, school lunchboxes, or topping your morning oatmeal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Naturally Sweet: Uses ripe bananas for built-in sweetness without overloading on sugar.
• Guilt-Free Snacking: Air-fried instead of deep-fried, giving you that crispy texture without the grease.
• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and hands-on time—perfect for busy afternoons or unexpected guests.
• Kid and Family Friendly: A snack you’ll feel good sharing, even with picky eaters.
• Versatile: Great on its own or used as a topping for yogurt bowls, smoothie bowls, or cereal.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

• 2 ripe but firm bananas
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

HOW TO MAKE CINNAMON-SUGAR AIR FRYER BANANA CHIPS

There’s something so satisfying about watching simple ingredients transform into a beautiful, crisp snack. Here’s how I make these banana chips just like my grandmother used to—but with a modern twist.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Slice the Bananas

Start with ripe, yet firm bananas. Slice them into thin, even rounds—about 1/8 inch thick. I like using a mandoline for perfect, uniform slices, but a sharp knife works just as well.

Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon-Sugar

In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Stir until it’s evenly mixed. This warm, aromatic blend is what gives the chips their signature flavor.

Step 3: Coat the Slices

In a larger bowl, gently toss the banana slices with avocado oil. This helps them crisp up in the air fryer. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the banana rounds and toss again until each piece is lightly coated.

Step 4: Preheat and Arrange

Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Arrange the banana slices in a single layer in the basket. Make sure they’re not overlapping—this is key to getting that satisfying crunch.

Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection

Air fry for 25 to 28 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’ll be golden and slightly crisp when done. Keep an eye on them, especially during the last 5 minutes.

Step 6: Cool and Crisp

Transfer the chips to a wire rack and let them cool for 5 to 10 minutes. They’ll crisp up more as they cool—trust the process.

HELPFUL TIPS:

• Firm Bananas Are Best: Avoid overripe bananas—they’ll turn mushy and won’t hold up in the fryer.
• No Mandoline? No Problem: Just slice as evenly as you can. Thicker slices will be chewier, thinner ones more crisp.
• Work in Batches: Don’t crowd the air fryer. For the best texture, give each slice space.
• Make It Your Own: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract to the mix for a fun flavor twist.

DETAILS:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25–28 minutes
• Total Time: 35–40 minutes
• Yield: ~2 cups
• Category: Snack
• Method: Air Fryer
• Cuisine: Global
• Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free

NOTES:

• Oil Swaps: You can use coconut or light olive oil in place of avocado oil.
• Sweetness Level: If your bananas are very ripe, reduce sugar slightly for balance.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (per serving, approx.):

• Calories: 150
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 15g
• Protein: 1g

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I use plantains instead of bananas?
Yes! Plantains work well for a more savory chip—just adjust the cook time slightly and consider skipping the sugar.

How do I keep the chips crispy?
Let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container. You can even pop them back into the air fryer for a minute if they soften.

Can I make these without added sugar?
Absolutely. The bananas themselves are naturally sweet. Just skip the cinnamon-sugar and maybe dust a bit of cinnamon on top.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep in the fridge and re-crisp in the air fryer before serving.

RELATED RECIPES:

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
• Chocolate Lemon Mousse Dome
• Lime Basil Pie – A Zesty Summer Delight with a Touch of French Elegance

CONCLUSION:

Cinnamon-Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips are more than just a healthy snack—they’re a way to connect with tradition, enjoy the cozy comfort of cinnamon, and savor the sweetness of homemade goodness. Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned snack-lover, this simple recipe delivers every time. Crisp, sweet, and satisfying—just like grandma used to make, with a modern twist.

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