Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips: A Delicious and Healthy Snack Recipe

If you’re craving a snack that’s both irresistibly sweet and delightfully crunchy, look no further than Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips: A Delicious and Healthy Snack Recipe. This homemade treat combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the warm embrace of cinnamon and just the right touch of sugar for a snack that’s not only tasty but also wholesome. Perfect for munching anytime, these crisp banana chips offer a fantastic balance of flavors and textures that will have you reaching for more, whether on a busy afternoon or as a guilt-free dessert nibble.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating these cinnamon sugar banana chips requires just a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering that perfect taste, texture, and golden color. They come together effortlessly to make this snack truly unforgettable.

• 4 ripe bananas: The star ingredient whose natural sweetness and moist texture make the perfect base for crispy chips.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds a slight tang and prevents the banana slices from browning too quickly, keeping their bright, fresh color.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses a warm and aromatic spice that pairs beautifully with the bananas’ sweetness.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the chips just enough to balance the tartness of the lemon and the spice of cinnamon.
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (melted) or vegetable oil: Helps the chips crisp up nicely while adding a subtle richness.
• Pinch of salt: Enhances the flavors and cuts through the sweetness for a well-rounded taste.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips: A Delicious and Healthy Snack Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by setting your oven to a low temperature of 200°F (93°C). This slow baking method is key to drying out the banana slices gently, turning them into crisp chips without burning them.

Step 2: Slice the Bananas Thinly

Peel your ripe bananas and slice them into thin rounds about 1/8 inch thick. Thin slices ensure they bake evenly and achieve the perfect crispy texture later on.

Step 3: Toss with Lemon Juice

Place the banana slices in a large bowl and drizzle with lemon juice. This little step helps maintain the vibrant color and adds a refreshing touch to the flavor.

Step 4: Mix Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This mixture will coat the banana slices and create that heavenly sweet-spicy flavor profile.

Step 5: Add the Oil and Toss

Drizzle the melted coconut or vegetable oil over the bananas, then gently toss them so each slice gets a light, even coating. The oil helps the sugar and cinnamon stick, while also promoting crispiness.

Step 6: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the banana slices and toss again carefully to make sure every piece is perfectly coated without clumping.

Step 7: Arrange on Baking Sheets

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and lay out the banana chips in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch or overlap so air can circulate and crisp them up evenly.

Step 8: Bake Slowly and Flip

Bake the banana chips for 2 to 3 hours, flipping halfway through to ensure they bake evenly. Keep an eye on their progress – they should become golden brown and crisp but not burnt.

Step 9: Check for Crispiness

If the chips still feel soft, continue baking for a bit longer in short increments. The goal is a satisfying crunch that lasts.

Step 10: Cool the Chips

Once baked, remove the trays from the oven and let the chips cool for about 10 minutes to firm up fully before enjoying.

Step 11: Store Your Creation

Transfer the cooled banana chips into an airtight container, keeping them fresh and crisp for up to a week at room temperature. Perfect for snacking whenever the craving hits!

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips: A Delicious and Healthy Snack Recipe

Garnishes

Consider dusting your cinnamon sugar banana chips with a little extra cinnamon or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar to add a festive touch when serving guests. A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate also pairs wonderfully for a decadent twist.

Side Dishes

These chips make a fantastic companion for yogurt parfaits or smoothie bowls, adding crunch and a burst of sweet spice. They also work beautifully alongside cheese platters or as a topping for ice cream and puddings.

Creative Ways to Present

For party snacks, serve the banana chips in cute little paper cones or small bowls lined with colorful napkins. Layering them between sliced fruits or nuts in a snack box makes for an eye-catching, nutritious bite on the go.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cinnamon sugar banana chips in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them crisp and fresh. Avoid refrigerating as moisture may soften the chips.

Freezing

If you want to keep your cinnamon sugar banana chips longer, freeze them in a sealed container with parchment layers to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, just let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Reheating

To regain that fresh-from-the-oven crispiness, gently warm your banana chips in a low oven (around 200°F or 93°C) for 5 to 10 minutes. This will help dry out any moisture absorbed during storage.

FAQs

Can I use green bananas instead of ripe ones?

It’s best to use ripe bananas as their natural sugars and softer texture are what help the chips become crispy and sweet. Green bananas are starchier and won’t caramelize as nicely.

Is coconut oil necessary, or can I use other oils?

Coconut oil adds a subtle richness and helps the chips crisp up, but vegetable oil or any neutral oil works well too if you prefer.

How thin should the banana slices be for best results?

Slice the bananas about 1/8 inch thick. Thin, even slices ensure the chips bake evenly and turn out perfectly crispy rather than chewy.

Can I make these chips without sugar?

While sugar enhances the sweet-spicy flavor, you can reduce or omit it if you prefer a less sweet snack. The banana’s natural sugars and cinnamon still provide great taste.

How long do these cinnamon sugar banana chips last?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, they stay fresh and crispy for up to a week. Longer storage is possible if frozen.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about homemade Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips: A Delicious and Healthy Snack Recipe that brings warmth and joy to any snacking moment. Once you try this recipe, I promise it’ll become one of your favorite go-to treats, perfect for satisfying that sweet tooth without the guilt. So grab some bananas and get baking – your taste buds will thank you!

Print