Banana chips are a favourite snack across the UK, known for their sweet flavour, satisfying crunch, and natural energy boost. While shop-bought versions are convenient, they often contain added sugars, preservatives, and unhealthy oils. Making your own dried banana chips at home is a healthier, tastier alternative that gives you full control over the ingredients.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know to make homemade dried banana chips using simple methods. Whether you want a crunchy snack for your lunchbox, a natural treat for your children, or a handy topping for cereals and desserts, banana chips are an excellent choice.
Why Make Dried Banana Chips at Home?
Homemade banana chips are not just cost-effective but also a healthier option. By drying bananas at home, you can:
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Avoid preservatives: No artificial additives or hidden sugars.
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Control the texture: Choose between chewy or crunchy chips depending on your method.
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Retain nutrients: Bananas are rich in potassium, fibre, and natural sugars, making them a wholesome snack.
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Reduce waste: Perfect for using overripe bananas that might otherwise be thrown away.
What You’ll Need
The best part about this recipe is its simplicity. You only need a few essentials:
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Bananas: Choose ripe but firm bananas. Overripe bananas tend to become mushy.
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Lemon juice: Helps prevent browning and adds a subtle tang.
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Optional sweetener: Honey or cinnamon can be added for extra flavour.
Equipment:
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Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
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Baking tray and parchment paper (for oven method)
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Dehydrator (if you own one)
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Airtight storage container
Three Methods to Make Homemade Dried Banana Chips
1. Oven-Dried Banana Chips
This is the most practical method for most UK households.
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Preheat your oven to 90°C (200°F).
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Slice the bananas into thin, even rounds—around 3–5 mm thick.
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Dip slices in lemon juice for 2–3 minutes to prevent browning.
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Arrange slices in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
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Bake for 2–3 hours, flipping halfway through, until they reach your preferred texture.
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Cool completely before storing.
Tip: For crunchier chips, leave them in the oven slightly longer and keep the door slightly ajar to release moisture.
2. Dehydrator Method
If you own a dehydrator, this is the most efficient way to make banana chips.
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Prepare bananas as above: slice and dip in lemon juice.
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Place slices evenly on the dehydrator trays without overlapping.
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Set temperature to 57°C (135°F) and dry for 6–12 hours.
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Check regularly until they’re fully dried and crisp.
This method produces consistent results and is perfect for bulk preparation.
3. Sun-Drying (Traditional Method)
Though weather in the UK can make this difficult, sun-drying is a traditional method in warmer climates. If attempted during summer:
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Slice and treat bananas as before.
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Place on wire racks or trays covered with mesh to allow airflow.
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Cover lightly with a fine cloth to protect from insects.
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Leave in direct sunlight for 2–3 days, turning occasionally.
Note: This method depends heavily on warm, dry conditions, which are not always reliable in the UK.
Storing Your Banana Chips
Proper storage ensures your homemade banana chips stay fresh:
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Store in an airtight glass jar or container.
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Keep in a cool, dry cupboard away from direct sunlight.
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For maximum freshness, store in the fridge—they’ll last up to 2 months.
If you make a larger batch, you can also freeze dried banana chips in airtight bags to extend their shelf life.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Banana Chips
Banana chips are more versatile than many realise. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
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On-the-go snack: Perfect for lunchboxes, hikes, or long commutes.
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Breakfast topping: Sprinkle over porridge, muesli, or yoghurt.
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Baking mix-in: Add crushed chips to cookies, muffins, or flapjacks.
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Trail mix: Combine with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit for an energy-packed snack.
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Dessert garnish: Use as a crunchy topping for ice cream or puddings.
Tips for Success
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Slice evenly: Consistent thickness ensures even drying.
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Use ripe but firm bananas: Overripe bananas make sticky chips.
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Experiment with flavours: A dusting of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cocoa powder can add a new twist.
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Check frequently: Especially when using the oven, to avoid burning.
Final Thoughts
Homemade dried banana chips are a simple, healthy, and cost-effective snack that you can easily prepare in your UK kitchen. With just a few bananas and some basic equipment, you can create a crunchy, flavour-packed treat free from added sugars and preservatives.
Whether you prefer using the oven, dehydrator, or even trying the traditional sun-drying method, making your own banana chips ensures you know exactly what’s in your snack. Store them well, and you’ll always have a wholesome option ready to enjoy.