Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips Recipe

If you have ever craved a snack that is both delightfully crispy and sweetly comforting, this Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips Recipe is just what you need. It transforms simple bananas into irresistibly crunchy chips, dusted with a perfect blend of cinnamon and sugar that’s nostalgic yet refreshing. With just a handful of straightforward ingredients and a little patience, you can create a snack that’s not only wholesome but bursting with flavor in every bite. Trust me, once you try this recipe, these cinnamon sugar banana chips will become your new go-to treat for snacking or even topping your favorite desserts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but essential to achieve the perfect balance of texture and taste. From the firm bananas that ensure crispness to the cinnamon sugar that adds warmth, every component plays a crucial role in this snack’s magic.

• 3 large, slightly green bananas: Choosing slightly green bananas ensures firmness, which is key for slicing thin and achieving crispiness.
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted: Coconut oil helps the chips brown nicely and adds a subtle richness; you can swap this with any neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil.
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar: Provides the sweet crunch that complements the bananas beautifully and caramelizes slightly during baking.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Infuses the chips with warm, aromatic spice that makes every bite comforting and flavorful.
• Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips Recipe

Step 1: Peel the Bananas

Begin by gently peeling each of your slightly green bananas. The firmness at this stage allows you to slice the bananas thinly without them turning mushy. If they’re too ripe, your chips will struggle to crisp up properly.

Step 2: Slice the Bananas Thinly

Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, cut the bananas into uniform thin slices, about 1/8 inch thick. Consistency here is key — thin and even slices will bake evenly and become perfectly crunchy. Slice directly onto a parchment-lined baking sheet to reduce sticking later on.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to a low 225°F (107°C). This slow and steady heat is what will dry out the bananas and create that coveted crisp texture without burning them.

Step 4: Melt the Coconut Oil

If your coconut oil has solidified, simply warm it briefly in the microwave until it turns to liquid. This step ensures easy, even brushing over the banana slices.

Step 5: Brush with Oil

Lightly coat each banana slice with the melted coconut oil. Brushing helps you control the amount and keeps each chip evenly coated, ensuring they turn golden and crispy without being greasy.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt together until the cinnamon is thoroughly combined with the sugar. This mixture is what gives these banana chips their signature sweet and spicy kick.

Step 7: Sprinkle with Cinnamon Sugar

Generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar blend over the oiled banana slices. For an extra punch of flavor, flip the slices and sprinkle the other side as well. Don’t be shy with the cinnamon sugar — it’s what makes this recipe so addictively delicious.

Step 8: Arrange on Baking Sheets

Place the banana slices in a single layer on parchment-lined baking sheets without overlapping. Crowding the pan will cause the chips to steam rather than crisp, so give each slice room to breathe.

Step 9: Bake Low and Slow

Pop the trays in the oven and bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. This slow baking process gently dehydrates the slices, helping them achieve that perfect golden color and crispy texture.

Step 10: Flip Halfway Through

About 45 minutes to an hour into baking, carefully flip each chip to guarantee even crisping on both sides. This step is crucial for balance in texture and flavor.

Step 11: Check for Doneness

The banana chips are ready when they turn a beautiful golden brown and feel firm to the touch. Keep in mind they will continue to harden as they cool, so don’t worry if they still feel a little soft straight from the oven.

Step 12: Cool Completely

Allow the chips to cool fully on the baking sheets. This cooling lets them finish crisping up and prevents sogginess, giving you that delightful crunch with every bite.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a light dusting of extra cinnamon sugar on the finished chips for an enhanced sweet-spicy aroma. For a fun twist, add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate or a light sprinkle of coconut flakes to add texture and additional flavor layers.

Side Dishes

Cinnamon sugar banana chips pair wonderfully with creamy yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They’re also amazing alongside a warm cup of chai or coffee, making an easy yet impressive snack or dessert accompaniment.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these chips in charming small bowls during gatherings, or layer them as a crunchy topping on smoothie bowls, oatmeal, or even peanut butter toast. Their golden hue brightens up any plate, making your snack look as good as it tastes!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your banana chips in an airtight container at room temperature. Keeping them sealed prevents moisture from creeping in and preserves that crispy texture for up to one week. If you find they soften, a quick bake in a low oven can revive their crunch.

Freezing

Though banana chips are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them for longer storage. Spread them on a baking tray in a single layer, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Thawed chips may lose some crispness but still make a lovely snack.

Reheating

If your chips lose their crunch, simply reheat them at 250°F (120°C) for 5-10 minutes until they crisp back up. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, and let them cool completely before serving.

FAQs

Can I use ripe bananas instead of slightly green ones?

Using ripe bananas will result in softer, less crispy chips. Slightly green bananas hold their shape better during baking and make for a crunchier chip, which is why they are preferred for this recipe.

Is coconut oil necessary, or can I use another oil?

Coconut oil adds a unique flavor and aids in crisping, but you can substitute it with any neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil without compromising the texture.

How thin should the banana slices be?

Slices about 1/8 inch thick work best. Thicker slices may not crisp properly, while thinner slices could burn or become too fragile during baking.

Can I make these chips without sugar?

You can reduce or omit sugar, but the caramelized sugar contributes both sweetness and the delightful crunch. Consider substituting with natural sweeteners like coconut sugar for a different flavor profile.

How long can I store the banana chips?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these chips will stay fresh and crispy for up to one week.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have this fantastic Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips Recipe up your sleeve, snacking just got a whole lot more exciting. It’s a perfect blend of simplicity and irresistible flavor that you can enjoy any time. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome treat or a show-stopping topping for your desserts, these chips are sure to become a beloved kitchen staple. Give it a try and watch how this humble banana transforms into crunchy, cinnamon-kissed perfection!

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