Banana chips are a delicious, crunchy, and naturally sweet snack that can be enjoyed on their own or added to breakfast bowls, trail mixes, and desserts. While supermarket shelves in the UK are stocked with ready-made banana chips, many of these options are fried and often contain added sugars or preservatives. Making dried banana chips at home is a healthier alternative and surprisingly simple.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about preparing dried banana chips using straightforward techniques. From choosing the right bananas to mastering the drying process, you’ll have a batch of tasty, homemade chips ready to enjoy.
Why Make Banana Chips at Home?
Store-bought banana chips often come coated in oil or sweetened syrups, which can diminish their natural health benefits. By making them at home, you gain full control over the ingredients and preparation method. Homemade dried banana chips:
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Contain no artificial preservatives
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Have reduced or no added sugar
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Offer a naturally sweet, crunchy texture
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Are budget-friendly compared to pre-packaged snacks
Plus, they’re a fantastic way to use up ripe bananas and prevent food waste.
Choosing the Right Bananas
The success of your dried banana chips begins with selecting the right bananas. Opt for bananas that are ripe but firm. Overripe bananas will become mushy during slicing and drying, while underripe bananas may not deliver the sweetness you expect.
A slight yellow peel with minimal brown spots works best. For those who prefer a chewier texture, slightly underripe bananas are a good option.
Ingredients and Equipment You’ll Need
You don’t need an extensive shopping list to make banana chips. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
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3–4 ripe bananas
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Optional: lemon juice (to prevent browning)
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Optional: a pinch of cinnamon or sea salt for extra flavour
Equipment:
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A sharp knife or mandoline slicer
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Baking tray and parchment paper (for oven method)
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Food dehydrator (for quicker results)
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Airtight container for storage
Methods to Make Dried Banana Chips
There are two popular ways to make banana chips at home: oven drying and using a food dehydrator. Both methods are effective, so choose whichever works best for your kitchen setup.
1. Oven-Dried Banana Chips
The oven method is the most accessible, as most UK households already have one.
Steps:
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Preheat your oven to 80–90°C (175–195°F). A low temperature is crucial to dry the bananas slowly without burning them.
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Peel the bananas and slice them into thin, even rounds (about 3–4mm thick). Consistency ensures they dry evenly.
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Dip slices in a mixture of lemon juice and water (1:1 ratio) to prevent browning. This step is optional but recommended.
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Arrange the slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking tray.
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Place in the oven and bake for 2–3 hours, flipping once halfway through. Keep the oven door slightly open to allow moisture to escape.
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Remove once the chips are golden and crisp.
2. Food Dehydrator Method
If you have a dehydrator, this method produces excellent results with less monitoring.
Steps:
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Slice peeled bananas into even rounds or lengthwise strips.
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Arrange slices on the dehydrator trays without overlapping.
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Set the dehydrator to 55–60°C (130–140°F).
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Dry for 6–12 hours, depending on slice thickness and desired crunch.
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Once fully dried, allow the chips to cool before storing.
Tips for Perfect Banana Chips
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Uniform slices: A mandoline slicer helps maintain even thickness.
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Patience is key: Slow drying prevents burning and preserves flavour.
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Flavour twists: Sprinkle cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a light dusting of cocoa powder before drying for a unique touch.
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Storage: Store cooled banana chips in an airtight container. They’ll keep for up to 2 weeks at room temperature or longer in the fridge.
How to Use Dried Banana Chips
Homemade banana chips are more versatile than you might think. Here are a few ways to enjoy them:
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On their own: A healthy, grab-and-go snack.
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With breakfast: Add to cereal, granola, or porridge for extra crunch.
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Trail mix: Combine with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.
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Baking: Incorporate into cookies, muffins, or banana bread.
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Dessert topping: Crush and sprinkle over ice cream or yoghurt.
Health Benefits of Homemade Banana Chips
Bananas are naturally rich in potassium, vitamin B6, and fibre. Drying them at home without added sugar or oil ensures you preserve their nutritional value. Homemade banana chips:
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Provide natural energy
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Support heart health
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Aid digestion thanks to dietary fibre
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Make an excellent snack for children and adults alike
Final Thoughts
Making dried banana chips at home is simple, cost-effective, and healthier than relying on store-bought versions. With just a few ripe bananas and some patience, you can create a crunchy, naturally sweet snack that’s perfect for any time of the day.
Whether you choose the oven or dehydrator method, the result is a batch of wholesome chips you can enjoy with peace of mind, knowing exactly what’s gone into them. So next time you’re craving a light snack, skip the packaged crisps and try making your own banana chips instead—you won’t regret it.