Air Fryer Caramelized Bananas with Cheese
Desserts

Air Fryer Caramelized Bananas with Cheese

A bold and irresistible combination of sweet, caramelized banana and savory, melted cheese, all wrapped in a golden, crispy shell. This quick air fryer dessert-snack will challenge your preconceived notions about sweet and savory pairings. One bite is all it takes to be won over!

Prep⏱️ 5 min
Cook🔥 10 min
Servings👥 4 servings
Difficulty📊 Very Easy
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🛒 Ingredients

4 servings

4
  • 4 ripe but firm bananas
  • 5.3 oz (150g) semi-hard cheese (such as Gouda, mozzarella, or Brazilian queijo coalho)
  • 2 tablespoons liquid honey
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 pinch flaky sea salt
  • Coconut oil spray or neutral vegetable oil for the basket

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Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat your air fryer to 356°F (180°C) for 3 minutes.

  2. 2

    Peel the bananas and cut them in half lengthwise, then cut each half into two equal pieces — you will get 4 pieces per banana.

  3. 3

    Cut the cheese into slices about 0.2 inches (5mm) thick, enough to cover each banana piece.

  4. 4

    Arrange the banana pieces, cut-side up, in the lightly oiled air fryer basket, making sure not to overlap them.

  5. 5

    Place a slice of cheese on each banana piece, pressing lightly to ensure it adheres.

  6. 6

    Cook at 356°F (180°C) for 8 to 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly golden, and the bananas are tender and caramelized.

  7. 7

    Carefully remove the bananas from the basket using a spatula and arrange them on a serving plate.

  8. 8

    Immediately drizzle with honey, sprinkle with cinnamon, and finish with a pinch of flaky sea salt to enhance all the flavors.

  9. 9

    Serve without delay, still warm, to enjoy the maximum crispy-melty contrast.

💡 Chef's Tip

Choose bananas that are slightly speckled with brown — they are sweeter and caramelize better when cooked. For an even more indulgent result, opt for well-drained mozzarella di bufala or Brazilian queijo coalho, which melts without running and forms a perfect lightly grilled crust. Avoid overly ripe bananas, which may fall apart during cooking.