Crispy Air Fryer Banana Chips

Have you ever craved a crunchy, salty, or sweet snack but wanted something healthier than regular potato chips? Air fryer banana chips are the perfect solution! They’re crispy, naturally sweet (or savory if you prefer), and incredibly easy to make. Plus, using an air fryer means they’re lower in oil than deep-fried versions, making them a guilt-free treat.

I first tried making banana chips when I was looking for a quick snack that wouldn’t take much effort. I was amazed at how simple it was—just a few ingredients and a few minutes in the air fryer, and I had a batch of crispy, delicious banana chips. They’ve now become a go-to snack in my house, perfect for munching while watching a movie or adding to a bowl of yogurt.

With bananas being available year-round, this is a recipe you can make any time, if you’re looking for a light and crispy snack to enjoy during warm weather, these banana chips are just what you need.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Than Store-Bought – These banana chips are made with minimal oil and have no preservatives or added sugars (unless you choose to add some).
• Quick and Easy – You only need a few ingredients and less than 15 minutes of cooking time!
• Customizable – Whether you like them sweet, salty, or even spicy, you can easily adjust the flavors to your liking.
• Perfect for Snacking – Enjoy them on their own, toss them in trail mix, or use them as a crunchy topping for yogurt or oatmeal.

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Ingredients

You’ll only need a few simple ingredients to make these crispy banana chips:

Basic Banana Chips

• 2 ripe but firm bananas (not overly ripe, or they’ll be too soft)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil or olive oil (for crispiness)
• ¼ teaspoon salt (optional, for a savory version)

Sweet Variation

• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon

Spicy-Savory Variation

• ¼ teaspoon chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

These simple ingredients come together to make a crunchy, delicious snack that’s perfect for any time of day.

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Kitchen Tools Needed

To make air fryer banana chips, you’ll need just a few basic kitchen tools:

• Air fryer – The star of this recipe! Any model will work, but one with a flat basket is ideal.
• Sharp knife or mandoline slicer – For cutting thin, even banana slices. A mandoline ensures consistent thickness.
• Cutting board – To safely slice your bananas.
• Mixing bowl – For tossing the banana slices with oil and seasoning.
• Parchment paper (optional) – Helps prevent sticking in some air fryer models.

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Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make crispy, delicious banana chips:

Step 1: Prep the Bananas

• Peel the bananas and slice them into thin, even rounds (about 1/8 inch thick). The thinner they are, the crispier they’ll be!
• Place the slices in a bowl and toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning.

Step 2: Season the Chips

• Drizzle the banana slices with coconut oil or olive oil and mix well.
• If making the savory version, sprinkle with salt or your chosen seasonings.
• For the sweet version, add honey or maple syrup and cinnamon, tossing to coat evenly.

Step 3: Arrange in the Air Fryer

• Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C).
• Place the banana slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping to ensure even crisping.

Step 4: Air Fry Until Crispy

• Air fry for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes—they can go from golden brown to burnt quickly!
• Once done, let them cool for 5-10 minutes (they crisp up more as they cool).

Step 5: Enjoy or Store

• Eat them fresh or store in an airtight container for up to a week.

More Recipes >>>>>>> Creamy Banana Smoothie

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Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use firm bananas – Overripe bananas will turn mushy instead of crispy.
• Slice evenly – Thin, even slices ensure they cook at the same rate.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer – Cook in batches if needed for the best crunch.
• Adjust temperature if needed – Some air fryers run hotter than others; if your chips are browning too fast, lower the temperature slightly.
• Cool before storing – Storing warm chips can make them soft. Let them cool completely for maximum crunch.

That’s it! Now you have a simple, delicious, and healthy snack ready to enjoy anytime. Try this recipe and let me know your favorite seasoning! Would you like more air fryer snack ideas? Let me know in the comments!

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Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize! Here are some substitutions and variations to try:

Substitutions:

• Bananas → Use plantains for a more savory, starchy chip. Green plantains are firmer and crispier, while ripe ones are slightly sweeter.
• Lemon juice → Swap with lime juice or even a little apple cider vinegar to prevent browning.
• Coconut oil → Use olive oil, avocado oil, or even melted butter for a different flavor.

Flavor Variations:

• Sweet & Spiced: Add pumpkin spice, nutmeg, or vanilla extract for a cozy fall twist.
• Chocolate Drizzle: After air frying, drizzle with melted dark chocolate for a decadent treat.
• Salty & Savory: Toss with garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika for a bolder, snackable version.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle with chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicy contrast to the natural sweetness of bananas.

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Serving Suggestions

These banana chips are so versatile! Here are some fun ways to enjoy them:

• On Their Own: A simple, crunchy snack anytime you need a quick bite.
• With Dips: Pair with peanut butter, almond butter, yogurt, or chocolate spread for extra flavor.
• In a Trail Mix: Mix with nuts, dried fruit, and dark chocolate chips for an energy-boosting snack.
• As a Topping: Sprinkle over yogurt, smoothie bowls, oatmeal, or ice cream for added crunch.
• With Cheese: Try them with cream cheese or a slice of sharp cheddar for a sweet-savory combo.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

How to Store:

• Let the banana chips cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container or a resealable bag at room temperature.
• They’ll stay crispy for up to 1 week, but for the best texture, eat them within a few days.

Can You Reheat Banana Chips?

• If your banana chips soften over time, you can re-crisp them in the air fryer!
• Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 2-3 minutes, shaking halfway through.
• Let them cool again for maximum crunch.

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FAQ

1. Can I use overripe bananas?

Not for this recipe! Overripe bananas are too soft and won’t crisp up. Use firm, just-ripe bananas for the best results.

2. Why are my banana chips chewy instead of crispy?

This can happen if the slices are too thick or if they weren’t cooked long enough. Try slicing thinner and making sure they are fully cooled before storing.

3. Can I make these without oil?

Yes! They may be slightly less crispy, but you can air fry them without oil. Just be sure to flip them halfway through to prevent sticking.

4. Can I use green bananas or plantains?

Absolutely! Green bananas and plantains will give you a more savory, crunchy chip similar to store-bought plantain chips.

5. Can I bake these instead of air frying?

Yes! Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 1.5 to 2 hours, flipping halfway through, until crisp.

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Now you’re all set to make the best homemade banana chips! Whether you love them sweet, salty, or spicy, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Have you tried making air fryer banana chips before? Let me know your favorite variation in the comments!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!

Nutritional Notes:

• These chips are naturally gluten-free and vegan.
• They are a great source of potassium, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Adding honey or sugar will increase the calorie and sugar content.
• Using plantains instead of bananas will reduce natural sugar but increase starch.