Air Fryer Bananas

You only need minutes to whip up these Air Fryer Bananas! Caramelized to perfection in the air fryer and filled with nut butter, chopped nuts, and melted chocolate chips, they taste 10x more indulgent than they really are.

AIR FRYER BANANAS

If you’ve never tried warm, gooey, air fryer bananas loaded with peanut butter and chocolate chips… you’re in for a treat. This recipe is like banana bread’s rebellious cousin — faster, mess-free, and ready to satisfy your sweet tooth in under 10 minutes.

It’s the perfect “I want dessert but I also want to feel semi-responsible” recipe. Naturally sweet, a little melty, and just customizable enough to keep things interesting every time you make it.

Whether you’re craving something cozy or showing off a fancy-yet-effortless dessert to guests, this one checks all the boxes.

If you like air fryer recipes you should also try my Air Fryer Pineapple or Air Fryer Apples.

SIMPLE INGREDIENTS YOU NEED FOR THE AIR FRYER BANANAS

You will need the following ingredients listed below to make these warm bananas (the exact measurements, nutrient information and full recipe are in the printable recipe card below):

• slightly overripe bananas – ripe but not too soft. This will help the cooking process to make them caramelized bananas.
• nut butter – any nut or seed butter you like, peanut butter, sunbutter, almond butter, cashew butter, or hazelnut butter. Nutella would probably also be very very delicious but I would then skip the chocolate chips
• nuts – chopped walnuts, almonds, peanuts, pistachios
• chocolate chips – dark or milk chocolate, sugar-free and/or dairy-free if you prefer 
• ground cinnamon – I love adding cinnamon to my desserts and I find it goes really well with the deep rich flavor of caramelized banana. It makes the whole dessert taste a bit like banana bread. You can skip it if you are not a fan.
• optional – brown sugar, melted coconut oil, coconut sugar, pinch of salt, vanilla extract, etc.

HOW TO MAKE AIR FRYER BANANAS

1. Prepare the Banana:
   Without removing the peel, slice the banana lengthwise from end to end, stopping about ½ inch from both ends to keep it intact. Cut only about ½ inch deep—do not slice all the way through.

2. Shape and Fill:
   Gently pinch the ends of the banana to create a boat shape. Spread peanut butter evenly down the center of the banana, then top with chocolate chips and walnuts.

3. Air Fry:
   Place the banana on a piece of parchment paper or foil (to protect your air fryer basket), and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 5–6 minutes, or until the banana is soft and caramelized, and the chocolate is melted.

4. Oven Option:
   Alternatively, place the filled banana in a casserole dish or wrap it in foil and bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 8–12 minutes, or until caramelized. Monitor closely to avoid overcooking.

5. Cool and Serve:
   Allow the banana to cool for a few minutes before adding additional toppings. A sprinkle of cinnamon and a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing, but feel free to get creative. Try it with a dollop of Greek yogurt and granola for a breakfast-friendly version, or drizzle with maple syrup, whipped coconut cream, or caramel sauce for an extra decadent treat.

DO THE BANANAS NEED TO BE RIPE?

Yes — the riper the better! You want bananas that are yellow with a few brown spots.

They’re naturally sweeter and caramelize beautifully in the air fryer. Underripe bananas will be firmer, less sweet, and won’t get that soft, gooey center you’re going for. Save the green ones for another day!

HOW TO SERVE AIR FRIED BANANAS

• Top with a scoop of ice cream – Vanilla, chocolate, or banana nice cream for a next-level banana split vibe.

• Drizzle with honey or maple syrup – For extra sweetness and shine.

• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or sea salt – A little goes a long way in balancing the flavors.

• Serve with yogurt or cottage cheese – For a high-protein snack or breakfast twist.

• Pile onto pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal – Banana slices giving an instant upgrade.

• Use as a base for a dessert bowl – Add granola, berries, nut butter, and chocolate chips.

• Eat them straight from the air fryer – Honestly? That gooey, melty moment is unbeatable.

VARIATIONS ON THIS EASY AIR FRYER BANANA RECIPE

• Nut-Free – Skip the nuts and add crushed pretzels or granola for crunch.

• Vegan – Use dairy-free chocolate chips and top with coconut whipped cream or plant-based ice cream.

• S’mores Style – Add mini marshmallows and crushed graham crackers before air frying.

• PB&J Vibes – Swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter and add a spoonful of raspberry jam.

• Turtle Banana – Use pecans, chocolate chips, and a drizzle of caramel sauce.

• Spiced Banana – Add a sprinkle of pumpkin spice or chai spice before baking for a cozy twist.

• Protein Boost – Stir in a bit of vanilla protein powder into the peanut butter or top with a scoop of high-protein yogurt.

• Frozen Treat – Let it cool, slice it up, and freeze for a chewy, candy-like snack.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE

• It tastes like dessert but takes 5 minutes – Minimal effort, maximum flavor.

• Customizable AF – Use whatever nuts, chocolate, or toppings you love (ice cream? yes. drizzle of honey? also yes).

• It’s warm, gooey, and kinda magic – The banana caramelizes, the chocolate melts, and suddenly you’re a kitchen genius.

• Healthier than it looks – Naturally sweet, loaded with fiber, and easy to make dairy-free or vegan.

• Perfect for late-night cravings – No mixing bowls, no dishes, just delicious comfort in a peel.

HOW TO STORE LEFTOVER BANANAS

These are definitely best enjoyed warm, fresh out of the air fryer when they’re at peak gooey perfection.

If you have leftovers (rare, but it happens), let them cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, just reheat the sweet treat in the microwave or pop them back in the air fryer until warmed through.

More Banana Recipes To Try!

• Mug Banana Cake
• Banana Cream Pie Overnight Oats
• Banana Bread Stove Top Oatmeal
• Healthy Banana Bread Cookies (Vegan & Gluten Free)
• The Best Banana Zucchini Bread Recipe
• Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal
• Banana Cream Pie Dip
• Air Fryer Banana Tortilla Roll Ups
• Banana Cream Pie With Pudding Mix

IF YOU TRIED THIS PERFECT TREAT PLEASE LEAVE IT A COMMENT AND STAR RATING. I LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOUR CREATIONS! YOU CAN PIN THIS AIR-FRIED BANANAS RECIPE ON PINTEREST OR SHARE ON INSTAGRAM BY TAGGING @basicswithbails and #basicswithbails