When I first came up with my Crispy Baked Banana Slices recipe, it was on a quiet Sunday afternoon when I craved a snack that was simple yet satisfying. I had a bunch of ripe bananas sitting on my counter and thought, “Why not try something new?” Crispy Baked Banana Slices sounded like the perfect treat—easy, wholesome, and deliciously crunchy. It became one of those recipes I instantly fell in love with, and I couldn’t wait to share it with others. Little did I know that Crispy Baked Banana Slices would soon become a go-to in my snack rotation.
Finding the Perfect Texture
One of the things I love most about this recipe is the texture. Getting the bananas perfectly crispy took some trial and error. I discovered that slicing the bananas evenly and baking them at just the right temperature made all the difference. I experimented with a few different thicknesses, and I quickly learned that thinner slices turned out crispier, while slightly thicker ones kept a soft, chewy center. This discovery added a new dimension to the snack, making it a delightful blend of crunch and natural sweetness.
Adding Flavor Variations
What I find exciting about Crispy Baked Banana Slices is how easy it is to add a bit of variety to each batch. A light sprinkle of cinnamon adds warmth, while a dusting of cocoa powder can make them taste extra indulgent. I’ve also experimented with a pinch of sea salt to enhance the banana’s natural sweetness, and it worked wonders! These little tweaks make each batch a unique treat, and they allow me to get creative with flavors depending on my mood.
There’s something comforting about knowing these snacks are not only delicious but also healthy. Bananas are packed with nutrients, and baking them brings out their natural sugars without adding any extra oil or sugar. I feel good about reaching for these whenever I want a light snack or a quick energy boost. Crispy Baked Banana Slices have now become a regular part of my snacking routine, and they’re a hit with anyone I share them with—simple, crispy, and so satisfying!
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Crispy Baked Banana Slices
- Use bananas that are just slightly underripe or ripe but still firm. Overripe bananas tend to be mushier and may not achieve the ideal crispiness.
- Slice bananas as uniformly as possible (about 1/10-inch thick) for even drying. A mandoline slicer is helpful if you have one.
- Brushing lemon juice lightly enhances flavor and prevents excessive browning. Apply just enough for a light coating; too much liquid can make them harder to crisp.
- Regularly check on the banana slices every 30 minutes, especially in the final stages, as ovens vary, and they can go from crisp to overdone quickly.
- After cooling, if the slices aren’t as crispy as desired, bake them for an extra 15-minute interval, checking periodically.
- Ensure the slices are completely cooled before storing them in an airtight container to prevent moisture buildup, which can make them soft.
Crispy Baked Banana Slices
4
servings10
minutes2
hours150
kcal5
minutes2
hours15
minutesDive into the delightful crunch of Crispy Baked Banana Slices! This simple and nutritious snack transforms ripe bananas into golden, oven-dried crisps that are perfect for any time of the day. Whether you’re craving a sweet treat or a wholesome bite, these banana slices deliver the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Easy to prepare and customizable to your taste, this recipe is a must-try for health enthusiasts and snack lovers alike. Get ready to indulge in a guilt-free delight that’s both delicious and satisfying!
Ingredients
- Bananas
4 slightly underripe bananas meticulously sliced into thin rounds measuring approximately 1/10-inch thick to ensure optimal crispiness.
- Citrus Glaze
2 tsp fresh lemon juice adjusted according to personal taste preferences for a subtle tang.
- Baking Essentials
parchment paper to line your baking sheet, ensuring easy removal and minimal sticking of banana slices during the baking process.
- Alternative Ingredients:
Bananas: Plantains can be used for a different flavor profile.
Lemon Juice: Lime juice or orange juice as substitutes for a varied citrus taste.
Parchment Paper: Aluminum foil or a silicone baking mat can replace parchment paper.
Directions
- Preparing the Oven and Baking Sheet: Begin by setting your oven to a low temperature of 225°F (110°C) to allow the banana slices to dry evenly without burning. While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to create a non-stick surface for your banana slices.
- Arranging the Banana Slices: Carefully lay out the banana rounds on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring each slice has ample space and does not overlap with others. This spacing is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture. Lightly brush each banana slice with lemon juice to enhance flavor and aid in the drying process.
- Baking to Perfection: Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 90 minutes. Every 30 minutes, check the bananas and gently lift a few slices to ensure they are drying evenly and not sticking to the parchment paper. Continue baking for an additional 30 to 90 minutes until the bananas are thoroughly dried and crispy.
- Cooling and Serving: Once baked, remove the banana chips from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for at least 5 minutes. This resting time helps them achieve maximum crunchiness. If they aren’t as crispy as desired, return them to the oven for an extra 15 minutes. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.
Equipment
- baking sheet
- knife set
- parchment paper
- oven
- brush
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 150kcal
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 1mg
- Potassium: 450mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 29g
- Vitamin A: 75IU
- Vitamin C: 12mg
- Calcium: 15mg
- Iron: 0.3mg
FAQ- Crispy Baked Banana Slices
Why are my banana slices not crispy?
If your banana slices turn out soft, they might be too thick or underbaked. Try slicing them thinner or baking them a bit longer. Make sure to check them regularly, as they crisp up more as they cool.
Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
Yes! Thin slices of apples, pears, or even plantains can work well, though they may require different baking times. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
How long can I store these banana chips?
When stored in an airtight container, they can last up to 5 days in a cool, dry place. If they soften, you can re-crisp them in a 200°F oven for a few minutes.
What can I add for more flavor?
Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cocoa powder over the slices before baking. A dash of vanilla extract in the lemon juice also gives them a unique flavor twist.
Is it possible to make these banana slices in a dehydrator?
Yes! Follow your dehydrator’s instructions for fruit slices, usually around 135°F for 8–12 hours. This method provides a consistent crunch, though it takes longer than oven-baking.
