Cinnamon-Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips

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Crispy, Naturally Sweet, and Irresistibly Snackable

There’s something incredibly satisfying about turning a simple fruit into a crunchy, crave-worthy snack—and Cinnamon-Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips do exactly that. Sweet, lightly spiced, and perfectly crisp, these banana chips are proof that snacks don’t need to be complicated to be delicious. With just a handful of pantry staples and an air fryer, you can create a snack that feels indulgent yet wholesome, comforting yet light.

Unlike store-bought banana chips that are often deep-fried and coated in heavy oils or excessive sugar, homemade air fryer banana chips give you full control over ingredients and flavor. The gentle heat of the air fryer slowly removes moisture from the bananas, concentrating their natural sweetness while the cinnamon-sugar coating adds warmth and aroma without overpowering the fruit itself.

Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to chips, a kid-friendly snack, or a cozy afternoon treat, this recipe delivers. These chips are crunchy at the edges, slightly chewy in the center (depending on slice thickness), and infused with nostalgic cinnamon-sugar flavor that feels both familiar and special.

Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon-Sugar Banana Chips

Naturally sweet: Ripe bananas provide most of the sweetness, meaning you don’t need much added sugar.
Crispy without frying: The air fryer creates crunch using circulating hot air instead of oil-heavy frying.
Quick and easy: Minimal prep, simple ingredients, and hands-off cooking.
Versatile: Enjoy them alone, with yogurt, or sprinkled over oatmeal.
Budget-friendly: Made with ingredients you likely already have.

Ingredients

  • Ripe but firm bananas
  • Granulated sugar
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Lemon juice (optional, for color retention)
  • Cooking spray or a light brush of oil (optional)

Instructions

  1. Peel the bananas and slice them into thin, even rounds, about ⅛-inch thick for the crispiest results.
  2. If using, lightly toss the banana slices with a few drops of lemon juice to help prevent browning.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until evenly combined.
  4. Lightly coat the banana slices with cooking spray or brush with a minimal amount of oil if desired.
  5. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over both sides of the banana slices.
  6. Arrange the slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap.
  7. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  8. Continue cooking in 2-minute increments until the banana chips are golden and crisp.
  9. Remove from the air fryer and let cool completely—they will crisp up more as they cool.
  10. Serve immediately or store once fully cooled.

Cinnamon-Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips

Crispy, lightly sweet banana chips made in the air fryer with cinnamon sugar for a quick and healthy snack.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Autumn
Calories: 110

Ingredients
  

  • 3 bananas ripe but firm
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp lemon juice optional

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Slice bananas into thin rounds.
  2. Toss banana slices with lemon juice if using.
  3. Mix cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl.
  4. Lightly coat banana slices and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
  5. Arrange slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  6. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
  7. Cool completely before serving or storing.

Notes

Banana chips crisp up more as they cool. Store only once fully cooled.

The Secret to Perfectly Crispy Banana Chips

The key to success lies in slice thickness and patience. Thin slices crisp faster and more evenly, while thicker slices will remain slightly chewy in the center. Neither is wrong—it simply depends on your preference. Letting the chips cool completely after air frying is essential, as residual moisture continues to evaporate during cooling.

Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Good air circulation ensures even drying and prevents steaming, which can lead to soggy chips.

Flavor Variations to Try

  • Vanilla Cinnamon: Add a pinch of vanilla sugar for bakery-style warmth.
  • Honey Cinnamon: Replace half the sugar with a light drizzle of honey before air frying.
  • Spiced Banana Chips: Add nutmeg or a pinch of cardamom for deeper spice notes.
  • No-Sugar Version: Skip the sugar entirely and rely on cinnamon and ripe bananas.

Serving Suggestions

  • Sprinkle over Greek yogurt or smoothie bowls
  • Use as a topping for oatmeal or overnight oats
  • Serve alongside nut butter for dipping
  • Pack into lunchboxes as a crunchy fruit snack
  • Add to homemade trail mix with nuts and seeds

Storage Tips

Once completely cooled, store banana chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If they soften slightly, a quick 2-minute reheat in the air fryer will restore crispness.

Fun Food Fact

Bananas become sweeter as they cook because heat breaks down complex carbohydrates into simple sugars. That’s why banana chips taste more caramelized and dessert-like than raw bananas—even with minimal added sugar.

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