Crispy and naturally sweet banana chips are a delightful snack that you can easily make at home. These thinly sliced bananas are baked or fried to perfection, offering a healthy alternative to store-bought snacks. Perfect for snacking on the go or adding to your favorite trail mix.
Thin slices of bananas that are either fried or dried until crispy. They are often sweetened or lightly salted and enjoyed as a snack.
It depends on how they are prepared. Dried chips without added sugar or oil can be a healthy snack, rich in potassium and fiber. However, fried or sugar-coated chips are higher in calories, fats, and sugars, and should be eaten in moderation.
These chips can be made by deep-frying ripe banana slices in oil or by dehydrating them in an oven or food dehydrator. Seasonings such as salt, sugar, cinnamon, or spices are often added.
Yes, most chips are vegan, especially if they are made with just bananas and oil. However, it’s always best to check the ingredient list for added flavors or coatings that may not be plant-based.
Keep your chips in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. This helps maintain their crunch and prevents spoilage. Homemade chips may have a shorter shelf life than store-bought ones.
Yes, chips are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure that the chips haven’t been processed with gluten-containing additives or in facilities that handle gluten.
Tips for Banana Chips
1. Use ripe but firm bananas
Choose bananas that are ripe (yellow with minimal brown spots) but still firm. Overripe bananas can become too soft and mushy during slicing and cooking.
2. Slice evenly for uniform crispness
Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to slice bananas thinly and evenly—about 1/8 inch thick. Uniform slices ensure even cooking and consistent texture.
3. Soak in lemon water to prevent browning
To keep your homemade chips from turning brown, soak the slices in a mixture of water and lemon juice for a few minutes before cooking.
4. Bake or air-fry for a healthier option
Instead of deep frying, you can bake at a low temperature (around 200°F / 95°C) for 1–2 hours, flipping halfway through. An air fryer also works well for a crispy texture with less oil.
5. Season creatively
Enhance the flavor with cinnamon, chili powder, sea salt, or even a light drizzle of honey before baking. Go sweet or savory depending on your taste.
6. Cool completely before storing
Let banana chips cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This helps them crisp up and prevents moisture from making them soggy.
7. Store in an airtight container
Store your chips in a tightly sealed container or resealable bag at room temperature to maintain their crunch and freshness for up to 1–2 weeks.
Ingredients
- 3 medium bananas ripe but firm
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
- optional salt for seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 225°F (110°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Peel and slice the bananas into thin, even slices, about 1/8 inch thick.
- Brush the banana slices with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Arrange the banana slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through, or until the chips are crispy and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely. Season with a pinch of salt if desired.
- Store the banana chips in an airtight container for up to a week.
Nutrition
I tried this recipe, but the bananas got too brown before I took them out. Should I not cut them so thin?
Just made these and they are sooo good! Can I use green bananas instead? I don’t have ripe ones.
I thought it was easy but it took too long. My kids lost interest waiting for them!!
These banana chips turned out amazing! I’ve never made my own before and they were so much better than store-bought.
Why in the world would you put salt on banana chips? Sweet is the way to go! Just stick to sugar.
Salt on banana chips? That’s just weird. They should be sugary and sweet. Who’s gonna snack on salty bananas?
I totally disagree! A little salt can really enhance the flavors. Sweet and salty is a classic combo! Give it a try!
Bananas are good for health! Chips too, 10/10 recommend!
Yum! I added a little bit of sugar and they were delicious!
That’s a great idea! Sweetening them up must have taken them to another level. I’ll try that next time!
Not worth it, they tasted kinda bland to me. Maybe add some cinnamon next time?
Ew, these turned out soggy for me. I followed the instructions but they didn’t crisp up. What did I do wrong?
These banana chips are so easy to make! I added some cinnamon and they turned out delicious. Thanks for the recipe!
I’m so glad you liked them! Cinnamon is a great touch, I’ll have to try that next time. 🍌
I’m skeptical about banana chips, can they really be that good? Never tried them myself. 🤔
So simple! I love bananas and this is the perfect way to snack on them. Will definitely make again.
I tried this recipe and they came out amazing! My kids can’t get enough. Thanks for sharing!
Bananas? Why not apples? 🍏 Kind of a weird recipe if you ask me.
I didn’t have parchment paper, so I used foil. Messy but still tasted good! Live and learn.
Seems like a healthy snack but what about all that sugar from the bananas? I don’t know if it’s worth it.