Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips: A Delicious and Healthy Snack Recipe

Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips are a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness and crunch, making them an irresistible snack for any occasion. As someone who has always had a penchant for experimenting with flavors, I can confidently say that these chips are not just a simple snack; they are a celebration of the humble banana, elevated by the warm embrace of cinnamon and sugar. The history of banana chips dates back to tropical regions where bananas are abundant, and they have become a beloved snack worldwide, cherished for their convenience and portability.

People love Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips not only for their delicious taste but also for their satisfying texture. The crispy exterior gives way to a tender bite, creating a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you enjoy them on their own, toss them into a trail mix, or use them as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal, these chips are a versatile addition to your snacking repertoire. Join me as we dive into this easy recipe that will surely become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe bananas
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (melted) or vegetable oil
• Pinch of salt

Preparing the Bananas

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 200°F (93°C). This low temperature will help dehydrate the bananas without burning them.

2. **Slice the Bananas**: Peel the bananas and slice them into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. The thinner the slices, the crispier the chips will be. I like to use a sharp knife for this, but a mandoline slicer works wonders if you have one.

3. **Toss with Lemon Juice**: In a large bowl, add the banana slices and drizzle the lemon juice over them. Gently toss the bananas to ensure they are evenly coated. This step is crucial as it helps prevent the bananas from browning and adds a nice tangy flavor.

Making the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

4. **Combine Sugar and Spices**: In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. The salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors. I love the aroma of cinnamon, and it pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the bananas.

5. **Coat the Banana Slices**: Drizzle the melted coconut oil (or vegetable oil) over the banana slices. Gently toss them again to ensure they are well coated. Then, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the bananas, tossing them until they are evenly coated. This step is where the magic happens; the bananas will soak up all that delicious flavor!

Arranging for Baking

6. **Prepare the Baking Sheet**: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the banana chips from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. If you have a cooling rack, you can place it on top of the baking sheet for better air circulation.

7. **Arrange the Banana Slices**: Lay the banana slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not overlapping; this will ensure they cook evenly and become crispy. If you have multiple baking sheets, feel free to use them to avoid overcrowding.

Baking the Chips

8. **Bake the Banana Chips**: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 2 to 3 hours. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on the thickness of your slices and your oven. You want them to be golden brown and crispy, not burnt.

9. **Flip Halfway Through**: About halfway through the baking time, I like to flip the banana slices over to ensure they dry evenly. Use a spatula to gently turn them over, being careful not to break them.

10. **Check for Doneness**: After 2 hours, start checking the banana chips every 15 minutes. They should be crisp and break easily when you try to bend them. If they are still soft, give them more time in the oven.

Cooling and Storing

11. **Cool the Chips**: Once the banana chips are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.

12. **Store the Chips**: Once completely cooled, transfer the banana chips to an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, consider storing them in the refrigerator or freezer.

Serving Suggestions

13. **Enjoy as a Snack**: These cinnamon sugar banana chips make a fantastic snack on their own. I love munching on them while watching a movie or as a quick pick-me-up during the day.

14. **Add to Breakfast**: You can also sprinkle them over yogurt or oatmeal for a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor. They add a lovely sweetness that complements the creaminess of yogurt or the heartiness of oatmeal.

15. **Use in Baking**: If you’re feeling adventurous, chop the banana chips and use them in baking. They can be a great addition to muffins, pancakes, or even trail mix.

16. **Gift Idea**: Pack them in a cute jar and give them as a homemade gift. Everyone loves a thoughtful, delicious treat!

Now that you have this simple yet delightful recipe for cinnamon sugar banana chips, I hope you enjoy making them as much

Conclusion:

In summary, these Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a deliciously sweet and crunchy snack. The combination of ripe bananas, warm cinnamon, and a touch of sugar creates a flavor profile that is simply irresistible. Not only are they easy to make, but they also offer a healthier alternative to traditional chips, making them perfect for satisfying those snack cravings without the guilt.

For serving suggestions, I love to enjoy these banana chips on their own, but they also make a fantastic topping for yogurt or oatmeal. You can even toss them into a trail mix for an extra burst of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider experimenting with different spices like nutmeg or adding a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the sweetness. The possibilities are endless!

I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the delightful crunch and flavor for yourself. Once you’ve made your own batch of Cinnamon Sugar Banana Chips, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, variations, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the joy of this tasty treat together!

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