Quick Air Fryer Cinnamon Banana Chips are a simple and tasty snack that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with a touch of warm cinnamon. These chips come out crispy and golden, making them perfect for munching anytime you want a little something crunchy and flavorful without any fuss.
I love how fast and easy these banana chips come together in the air fryer — just slice, sprinkle cinnamon, and pop them in. It’s a great way to use up bananas that are a bit too ripe, turning them into a crunchy treat that everyone loves. Plus, they make a great healthy snack alternative to sugary chips.
My favorite way to enjoy these cinnamon banana chips is sprinkled over yogurt or oatmeal for a little extra texture and sweetness in the morning. They also travel well, so I like keeping some in a container for a quick snack on the go. These chips are a simple twist on fruit that never gets old in my kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: Use ripe but firm bananas for the best texture. Overripe bananas can be too soft and won’t crisp well. If you want a different flavor, try plantains—they work great for chips too.
Cinnamon: This adds warm spice and pairs beautifully with the banana’s sweetness. If you don’t have cinnamon, try nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a twist.
Coconut oil or Butter: These help the chips crisp up and add a mild richness. You can skip this if you want a lighter snack or try olive oil for a different flavor.
Sugar: Optional for those who like a sweeter chip. You can use granulated sugar, brown sugar, or even a drizzle of honey after cooking if you prefer.
How Do You Make Thin, Crispy Banana Chips in the Air Fryer?
The key is even, thin slices and careful cooking time.
- Slice bananas to about 1/8 inch thick for perfect crispiness without burning.
- Coat slices lightly with oil or butter to help them crisp up in the air fryer.
- Arrange banana slices in a single layer—avoid overcrowding so hot air can circulate.
- Flip halfway through cooking to ensure both sides get golden and crisp.
- Watch closely near the end; air fryers vary and chips can burn quickly.
- Let chips cool on a rack after air frying. They get crunchier as they cool, so don’t skip this step!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – I recommend a 3.7-quart or larger to give space for the banana slices to spread out evenly.
- Sharp knife – helps slice bananas evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Cutting board – provides a stable surface for slicing.
- Small mixing bowl – to toss the banana slices with oil and seasonings.
- Wire rack (optional) – for cooling the chips and helping them crisp up fully after cooking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon for a different warm flavor.
- Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup after cooking for extra sweetness.
- Sprinkle some chopped nuts or coconut flakes on top before air frying for added texture.
- Use apple slices or pears instead of bananas—both soften and crisp well for this recipe.
Quick Air Fryer Cinnamon Banana Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Banana Chips:
- 2 ripe bananas (firm, not too soft)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or melted butter (optional, for crispier chips)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar or brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 10-12 minutes to cook in the air fryer. Plus, allow a few minutes to cool the chips for the best crispy texture. In total, plan for about 25 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Slice the Bananas:
Peel two ripe but firm bananas and slice them into thin, even rounds about 1/8 inch thick. Even slices help them crisp up perfectly without burning.
2. Season the Slices:
Place the banana slices in a bowl and gently toss with melted coconut oil or butter if using, to help them crisp. In a small bowl, mix the ground cinnamon, sugar (optional), and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the bananas and toss gently to coat all the slices.
3. Air Fry the Chips:
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3 minutes. Then, place the banana slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket—avoid overcrowding so they cook evenly. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through. Keep a close eye near the end to prevent burning.
4. Cool and Serve:
Once done, remove the chips and place them on a wire rack to cool. They will crisp up more as they cool. When completely cooled, enjoy your crunchy cinnamon banana chips or store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh.
Can I Use Overripe Bananas for This Recipe?
It’s best to use ripe but firm bananas. Overripe bananas tend to be too soft and may turn mushy instead of crisping up well in the air fryer.
Can I Make These Banana Chips Without Oil or Butter?
Yes! You can skip the coconut oil or butter for a lighter snack, but the chips may be slightly less crispy. Just be sure to slice them thinly and cook evenly.
How Should I Store Leftover Banana Chips?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They’re best eaten within 3 days to maintain their crispness.
Can I Use a Regular Oven Instead of an Air Fryer?
Absolutely! Bake the banana slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 300°F (150°C) for about 1-1.5 hours, flipping halfway through until crispy.