It’s 3pm, the kids are home, and everyone is asking for a snack. You want something sweet but healthy enough to feel good about serving. These air fryer banana chips are the perfect solution for busy afternoons.
They are crunchy, sweet, and much cheaper than the store-bought version. You only need five simple ingredients from your pantry to start. This recipe delivers a satisfying crunch that your whole family will love.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This snack is a lifesaver for back-to-school season and busy weeknights. It turns simple fruit into a crispy treat in under 30 minutes. You can control the sugar and salt levels for your kids.
The air fryer does all the heavy lifting without using much oil. It is a budget-friendly way to use up bananas before they get too soft. You get a restaurant-quality snack right in your own kitchen.
Simple Cooking Method
Making these chips is incredibly straightforward for any beginner cook. You just slice, toss, and let the air fryer work its magic. The convection heat ensures every slice gets perfectly golden brown.
You don’t need to stand over a hot stove or deep fryer. Even if you are new to air frying, you can master this. It is a low-stress recipe that yields high-reward results every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These chips rely on basic pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
- 2 large firm bananas
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Directions
- Peel bananas and slice into uniform 1/8-inch thick rounds using a mandoline or sharp knife.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gently toss the banana slices in the mixture until each piece is evenly coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 300°F (150°C).
- Arrange the banana slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Air fry for 10 minutes, then flip each slice using tongs and cook for an additional 8 to 10 minutes until golden brown.
- Transfer the chips to a wire cooling rack for at least 5 minutes; they will continue to harden and crisp as they cool.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these chips in a small bowl for a cozy movie night. They are also fantastic as a crunchy topping for morning yogurt or oatmeal. Pack them into small containers for easy school lunches all week long.
Storage & Reheating
Store your leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and crunchy for up to three days. If they lose their crispness, pop them back in the air fryer. Heat at 300°F for just two minutes to restore the crunch. Avoid the fridge as moisture will make them soft and chewy.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip the cooling rack step because it finishes the crisping process.
- Avoid using overripe bananas as they will be too mushy to slice thinly.
- Use a mandoline to ensure every slice is the exact same thickness.
- Work in batches if your air fryer basket is small to avoid overlapping.
- For a fall twist, add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon mixture.
- Always flip the chips halfway through to ensure even browning on both sides.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap the sugar for maple syrup for a deeper, earthy sweetness.
- Use avocado oil instead of coconut oil for a more neutral flavor.
- Add a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper for a sweet and spicy kick.
- Omit the sugar entirely for a naturally sweet, low-calorie snack.
Common Questions
Why are my banana chips not crunchy?
They often feel soft when they first come out of the air fryer. Let them sit on a cooling rack for five minutes. They will harden significantly as the air circulates around them.
Can I use green bananas for this?
Yes, firmer bananas actually work best for chips. They have less sugar and a higher starch content. This helps them hold their shape and get extra crispy while cooking.
I hope these crispy banana chips become a new favorite in your home. They are such a simple way to bring a little sweetness to your fall afternoons. Happy snacking!
— Alex
Ingredients
- 2 large firm bananas
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon sal t
Instructions
- Peel bananas and slice into uniform 1/8-inch thick rounds using a mandoline or sharp knife.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gently toss the banana slices in the mixture until each piece is evenly coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 300°F (150°C).
- Arrange the banana slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Air fry for 10 minutes, then flip each slice using tongs and cook for an additional 8 to 10 minutes until golden brown.
- Transfer the chips to a wire cooling rack for at least 5 minutes; they will continue to harden and crisp as they cool.
