Air fryer bananas are the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth with minimal effort. This easy dessert combines simple ingredients to create caramelized bananas that are delicious on their own or paired with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or an indulgent sweet treat, this easy air fryer banana recipe has you covered.
If you’re interested in more plant-based air-fryer recipes, feel free to explore my complete Vegan Air Fryer Recipes Collection here.
Why Air Fryer Bananas Are a Must-Try
Natural Sweetness with Minimal Effort
This is one of my favorite air fryer recipes since bananas are naturally sweet and caramelize beautifully, thanks to the heat of the air fryer. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dessert that feels indulgent but is actually a healthy snack.
A Great Way to Use Leftover Bananas
Got bananas with brown spots sitting on your counter? This recipe is a great way to use them up, preventing waste and turning them into a delicious snack the whole family will love.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Bananas
Essential Ingredients
- 1 whole banana in the peel
- 1–2 tsp all-natural peanut butter
- 2 tbsp dark chocolate chips
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- Drizzle of maple syrup (optional)
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
- Coconut sugar or brown sugar for extra caramelization
- A small drizzle of melted butter for richness
- A splash of lemon juice to balance sweetness
Ingredient Substitutions
Sweeteners
Prefer a different sweetener? Swap maple syrup for coconut sugar or brown sugar to add a touch of richness.
Nut Butters
If peanut butter isn’t your thing, try almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or even tahini for a nutty twist.
Chocolate Chips and Toppings
Feel free to use white chocolate chips, dark chocolate chunks, or caramel sauce as a topping. A sprinkle of crushed nuts or granola adds texture.
Spices
Ground cinnamon is a great topping, especially when combined with a little bit of fresh nutmeg. This is my favorite way to add a little extra spice over the holiday season! Serve with chocolate chips and a scoop of ice cream and you have yourself a great recipe!
Helpful Tools
To make this delicious dessert, you’ll need an air fryer. Ensure it’s preheated to 390 degrees for our recipe.
How to Make This Air Fryer Banana
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Banana
- Place a whole banana, unpeeled, on a cutting board.
- Optional: Use a pastry brush to lightly coat the peel with a little coconut oil for extra crispness.
Air Frying the Banana
- Preheat your air frier to 390 degrees F.
- Place the banana in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 6 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Adding Toppings
- Once golden brown, carefully slice the banana open lengthwise.
- Add a dollop of peanut butter on top of the bananas, a sprinkle of cinnamon, chocolate chips, and an optional drizzle of maple syrup. It is such a great snack or easy dessert and kids love it too! (especially with a few scoops of ice cream) It’s one of my favorite ways to use up extra bananas.
How to Serve Air Fryer Bananas
Sweet Treats and Desserts
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a banana split-inspired dessert.
- Use the warm bananas as a topping for French toast, pancakes, or waffles.
- Add vegan marshmallows with chocolate chips for a banana boat style treat!
- Serve the banana pieces on top of pancakes with chocolate sauce for a special treat!
Healthy Snack Pairings
- Pair with Greek yogurt for a balanced snack.
- Enjoy with a slice of peanut butter toast for added protein.
Storage Tips for Air-Fried Bananas
Keeping Bananas Fresh for the Next Day
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.
Reheating Tips
- Reheat in the air fryer at 350 degrees F for 2–3 minutes to restore their warm, caramelized texture.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Bananas
Achieving the Right Texture
- Use slightly overripe bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and caramelization. If you don’t have super ripe bananas, yellow bananas will work in this recipe. If the banana is a little firm that is ok, however I would avoid using green bananas in this recipe.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer tray to ensure even cooking.
- Use piece of parchment paper or tin foil to catch any melted toppings.
FAQ:
Yes, overripe bananas with brown spots are perfect for air fryer bananas because of their natural sweetness.
Place a small piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil under the banana to avoid sticking.
Yes, bake at 400 degrees F for 10–12 minutes until the bananas are warm and caramelized.
Try caramel sauce, crushed nuts, Greek yogurt, or even a sprinkle of coconut sugar.
Absolutely! Air fryer bananas make a healthy dessert or snack that kids will love, especially when topped with chocolate chips or peanut butter.
Air Fryer Banana Vegan
Ingredients
- 1 whole banana in the peel
- 1-2 tsp all natural peanut butter
- 2 tbsp dark chocolate chips
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- drizzle of maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Place the whole banana in the peel in the air fryer at 390 degrees for 6 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Cut the banana open lengthwise, down the middle and drizzle with peanut butter, chocolate chips, a drizzle of maple syrup and a dusting of cinnamon. Serve and enjoy!
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Conclusion: Air Fryer Banana
Air fryer bananas are a quick, easy, and versatile recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a delicious snack or dessert. Whether you’re craving caramelized bananas on their own or looking to create a banana boat with your favorite toppings, this recipe is bound to become one of your favorite things to whip up.
Yum! This was great 😊 I had a few older bananas I had to use up and worked perfectly
Hi Connie, yes this is great way to use up some bananas!
Very nice and creative way to make a “healthy” quick snack thanks!!
Thanks so much for the feedback Carly happy you liked it!