Some snacks transport you, not just to a different flavor but to a different time. Growing up, my grandmother would always keep a jar of dried banana chips on her kitchen shelf. They were crunchy, sweet, and carried the comforting hum of cinnamon. But they were also deep-fried and sugary beyond measure—a treat reserved for special occasions.

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Years later, the nostalgia for those banana chips stayed, but my lifestyle shifted toward lighter, healthier fare. That’s where these Cinnamon-Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips come in. They hold all the warmth and sweetness of the original, but with a lighter touch, thanks to the air fryer.

Perfect for after-school snacks, cozy movie nights, or as a lunchbox surprise, these chips have become a household staple. They’re a beautiful balance of natural sweetness and cinnamon spice, and best of all, they come together with minimal effort.

Whether you’re making a batch for your kids or simply trying to satisfy your sweet tooth without turning on the oven, this recipe brings comfort in every crunchy bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Naturally Sweetened: Uses the inherent sweetness of bananas with just a kiss of cinnamon-sugar.
Healthier Alternative: Air frying cuts down on oil while still delivering that satisfying crunch.
Quick and Simple: No dehydrator needed, and no need to wait hours for oven-baked versions.
Crowd Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike—especially when paired with peanut butter or yogurt.
Versatile Use: Add them to oatmeal, smoothie bowls, or trail mix for a flavorful boost.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

2 firm bananas (preferably slightly underripe)
1 tablespoon melted coconut oil (or butter)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Make Cinnamon-Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips

Let’s bring that nostalgic snack back to life—with a modern twist. Here’s how you can make your own batch of Cinnamon-Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips at home:

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Choose the Right Bananas
Pick bananas that are firm and just a little underripe. They’ll hold their shape better in the air fryer and won’t get mushy.

Step 2: Slice with Care
Using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer, cut the bananas into ⅛-inch rounds. Uniform thickness is key for even crisping.

Step 3: Sweet Spice Coating
In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon and sugar. Separately, brush or toss the banana slices lightly with melted coconut oil.

Step 4: Toss and Turn
Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the banana slices and toss gently until coated.

Step 5: Air Fry the Magic
Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Arrange the slices in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes—they go from golden to dark fast.

Step 6: Cool for Crunch
Transfer the chips to a wire rack. Let them cool completely; they’ll crisp up even more as they rest.

HELPFUL TIPS:

Firm Bananas Only: Ripe bananas tend to go limp in the air fryer. Choose bananas with just a few specks.
Don’t Crowd the Basket: Give them space—overlapping leads to uneven cooking.
Cool Down Time Matters: Chips may seem slightly soft right out of the fryer, but they firm up perfectly as they cool.
Add Variety: Try swapping cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice or adding a pinch of sea salt for balance.

DETAILS:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Category: Snacks
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

NOTES:

You can use maple sugar or coconut sugar as a natural alternative.
For extra crunch, let the chips sit out for 30 minutes after cooling to air dry.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (per serving):

Calories: 120
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 4g
Sugar: 14g
Fiber: 3g

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can air fryers make banana chips healthier?
Yes, air fryers make banana chips healthier by using little to no oil, reducing fat content compared to deep-frying. They also let you control sugar and avoid preservatives found in store-bought versions, making for a cleaner, nutrient-rich snack that’s naturally sweet and crispy.

Are cinnamon-sugar air fryer banana chips healthy?
Cinnamon-sugar air fryer banana chips can be a healthy treat when made at home. They’re baked with minimal oil and use natural banana sweetness. By controlling the cinnamon and sugar amounts, you create a wholesome, fiber-rich snack free from additives and excess sugar.

How do you keep banana chips crispy in an air fryer?
To keep banana chips crispy, let them cool completely and store in an airtight glass jar to prevent moisture. If they soften, reheat in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 2–3 minutes. This method restores their crunch without overcooking.

How long do you air fry banana chips?
Air fry banana chips at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Arrange slices in a single layer to ensure even crisping. Watch closely near the end to prevent burning and get that perfect golden crunch.

How to cook bananas in air fryer?
Slice bananas thinly and lightly brush with melted coconut oil or butter. Sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar, then air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes in a single layer. Flip halfway through for even crisping and a delicious, caramelized finish.

How long do banana chips last in the air fryer?
Air fryer banana chips stay fresh up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If they lose their crunch, simply reheat in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 2–3 minutes to revive their crispiness.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Store in a dry, airtight container for up to 3 days. If they start to soften, simply reheat in the air fryer at 300°F for 2–3 minutes to bring back the crunch.

Related Recipes:

If you liked these, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cozy, crunchy bites:

CONCLUSION:

There’s a reason why simple snacks like Cinnamon-Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips stick with us. They’re easy to make, fill your kitchen with a warm, comforting aroma, and bring a touch of nostalgia with every bite. Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a delicious reminder that sometimes the best treats are the ones that feel like home.

A Cozy Crunch: Cinnamon-Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips

Author: Diane M

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