Hello, friend! It’s Clara from Cooking Inspired, and I’m so excited to share one of my absolute favorite quick treats with you: Crispy Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips. As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to find the time to whip up something delicious and healthy. That’s why I’m all about recipes that are not only mouthwatering but also incredibly simple and efficient, like these iron-rich banana chips that take less than 15 minutes to make!
Table of contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Crispy Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips
- Quick and Easy: These banana chips come together in minutes, perfect for when you need a fast snack.
- Healthier Than Store-Bought: Skip the processed stuff, and enjoy a homemade treat with wholesome ingredients.
- Customizable: Adapt the recipe to your taste with different spices and sweeteners.
- Kid-Friendly: A great way to get your kids involved in the kitchen and enjoy a healthy snack. For another fun treat, try our healthy banana sushi snack for kids.
What Are Banana Chips? A Brief History and Nutritional Overview
Banana chips are believed to have originated in Southeast Asia, where bananas have been cultivated for centuries. These delightful snacks are traditionally made by slicing bananas and then drying or frying them. As for nutrition, they provide a good source of energy, potassium, and fiber. When made at home, like my recipe, they can be a much healthier alternative to store-bought versions loaded with added sugars and preservatives.
Choosing the Right Bananas for Crispy Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips
While this recipe calls for unsweetened banana chips, the type and ripeness of the bananas used to make those chips can affect the final outcome. I suggest looking for bananas that are ripe but still firm to the touch. You want them to be sweet, but not mushy. Overripe bananas will be too soft and won’t crisp up nicely in the oven.
Ingredients for Crispy Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips
Here’s what you’ll need to create these irresistible treats:
- 3 tbl coconut oil or avocado oil
- 1 1/2 tbl cinnamon
- 3 cups unsweetened banana chips
- Optional: 2 tbl maple syrup
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crispy Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips
Ready to get started? Follow these easy steps to create your own batch of Crispy Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips.
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350F.
Step 2: Melt together the oil, maple syrup and cinnamon.
Step 3: Add the unsweetened banana chips to a bowl and pour over the oil mixture. Stir to make sure that all the unsweetened banana chips are evenly coated.
Step 4: Spread the coated banana chips out on a parchment lined baking tray in a single layer.
Step 5: Bake for about 8 minutes, then remove the baking tray from the oven.
Step 6: Place on a rack to cool before eating. Store in an airtight container.
Expert Tips for the Crispiest Banana Chips
Here are some secrets to ensure your banana chips turn out perfectly crispy every time. For the ideal crisp, the chips should be thinly sliced and evenly coated. To prevent sticking, always use parchment paper on your baking tray. Make sure the chips are in a single layer to ensure even baking. If your chips aren’t getting crispy enough, try baking them for a minute or two longer, but watch them carefully to avoid burning!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Crispy Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips
Let’s talk about some common pitfalls and how to sidestep them. Avoid overcrowding the pan. It lowers the temperature and causes uneven baking. Always use parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup. Keep a close eye on the oven, and don’t overbake. Also, remember that overly ripe bananas won’t crisp up nicely.
Variations on Crispy Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips
| Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Savory | Add a pinch of salt and chili powder for a spicy kick. |
| Chocolate | Drizzle with melted dark chocolate after baking. |
| Peanut Butter | Mix in a spoonful of peanut butter with the oil mixture before coating the chips. |
| Nutmeg & Cardamom | Add a dash of nutmeg and cardamom for a warm, aromatic flavor. |
If you love cinnamon, be sure to check out our easy cinnamon swirl bread recipe.
Ingredient Substitutions for Crispy Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips
| Ingredient | Substitution Options |
|---|---|
| Coconut Oil | Avocado oil, melted butter |
| Maple Syrup | Coconut sugar, honey, stevia (adjust quantity to taste) |
How to Store Crispy Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips
To keep your banana chips deliciously crispy, store them properly. At room temperature, they’ll stay fresh in an airtight container for about a week. For longer storage, you can keep them in the fridge for up to two weeks. For maximum shelf life, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Frozen chips can last for up to two months.
Amazing Crispy Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350F.
- Melt together the oil, maple syrup and cinnamon.
- Add the unsweetened banana chips to a bowl and pour over the oil mixture. Stir to make sure that all the unsweetened banana chips are evenly coated.
- Spread the coated banana chips out on a parchment lined baking tray in a single layer.
- Bake for about 8 minutes, then remove the baking tray from the oven.
- Place on a rack to cool before eating. Store in an airtight container.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a dehydrator instead of an oven?
Yes, you can! Dehydrate at 135F for about 6-8 hours, or until crispy.
How do I prevent the chips from sticking to the baking sheet?
Always use parchment paper for easy release.
What is the best way to store these chips to maintain their crispness?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.
How long will the chips last?
About a week at room temperature, up to two weeks in the fridge, and up to two months in the freezer.
Can I use different types of sugar?
Absolutely! Coconut sugar, honey, or stevia all work well. Adjust the amount to your liking.
Can I add other spices, like nutmeg or cardamom?
Yes, feel free to experiment with your favorite spices.
Can I make these without any added sugar?
Of course! Simply omit the maple syrup for a sugar-free version.
Serving Suggestions for Crispy Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips
These delightful chips are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them straight out of the container as a satisfying snack. They also make a fantastic topping for yogurt or oatmeal, adding a touch of sweetness and crunch. For a fun twist, add them to your favorite trail mix for an extra burst of flavor and energy.
Conclusion
See, friend? I told you these Crispy Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips were easy to make! They’re such a treat, and I know you’ll enjoy making them for yourself and your loved ones. Now, I would absolutely love to hear from you! Have you tried this recipe? What variations did you try? Leave a comment below, ask a question, or share your results. Let’s inspire each other to make every meal a moment of joy!
