Name: Crispy Air Fryer Banana Pepper Coins for Guilt-Free Snacking
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 23 min
Ingredients: 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Can substitute with onion powder.); 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adjust for spiciness.); 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (Can use seasoning salt for more flavor.); 4 medium Banana Peppers (Can swap for jalapeños for more heat.); spray Olive Oil Spray (Use avocado oil spray as an alternative.)

As I took my first bite of these crispy, air-fried banana pepper coins, I couldn’t help but smile at how effortlessly they combine crunch and flavor. Gone are the days of reaching for bland snacks; this appetizer is your new go-to for game day or casual gatherings. These Air Fryer Banana Pepper Coins are not only quick to whip up, but they also deliver a snackable punch of tangy sweetness that everyone will adore. Plus, with a gluten-free option that doesn’t skimp on taste, you can please all your friends and family. Are you ready to transform your snack game? Let’s dive into making these delightful bites!

Why Are Air Fryer Banana Peppers Irresistible?

Crispy and Flavorful: You’ll love how these air fryer banana pepper coins provide a satisfying crunch while bursting with savory flavor.

Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: Perfect for parties or casual get-togethers, these coins are sure to impress guests—try them alongside a refreshing dip, or serve them as part of a charcuterie board to elevate your spread.

Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to swap banana peppers for spicy jalapeños for an extra kick or experiment with savory seasonings like Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs, catering to everyone’s taste buds.

Quick and Easy: Whipping these up takes mere minutes, making them an ideal choice for those times you need a delicious snack without spending hours in the kitchen.

Healthier Alternative: With a gluten-free option available, these crispy bites are a lighter twist on traditional fried snacks, making them a guilt-free choice every time! For ideas on pairing, check out my Lemon Pepper Smashed potatoes or Roasted Red Pepper stuffed chicken.

Air Fryer Banana Pepper Coins Ingredients

• Get ready to gather your staples for this crispy, tangy delight!

For the Coating

All-Purpose Flour – Provides a crispy coating; replace with gluten-free flour blends if needed.
Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor with a savory note; can be substituted with onion powder for variety.
Black Pepper – Adds a hint of heat; increase the amount for a spicier version.
Sea Salt – Essential for drawing out all flavors; consider using seasoning salt for an extra flavor boost.

For the Peppers

Banana Peppers – Adds a mild, tangy flavor and crunchy texture; jalapeños can be swapped for more heat.
Olive Oil Spray – Ensures even cooking and a crispy finish without excess fat; avocado oil spray can be used as an alternative.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Air Fryer Banana Pepper Coins

Step 1: Prepare the Coating
In a medium bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, garlic powder, black pepper, and sea salt until well combined. This mixture serves as the crispy coating for your air fryer banana pepper coins, giving them a delightful crunch. Make sure it’s evenly blended to enhance the overall flavor of each coin.

Step 2: Slice the Banana Peppers
Carefully slice your banana peppers into rings, about ¼-inch thick. If you prefer a milder flavor, remove the seeds before slicing. These vibrant pepper rings will not only provide a beautiful pop of color but also a tangy taste that complements the crispy exterior.

Step 3: Coat the Pepper Rings
Toss the freshly sliced pepper rings in the flour mixture from Step 1, ensuring each ring is evenly coated. This step is crucial for achieving that satisfying crunch. Shake off any excess flour to prevent clumping, allowing the coating to adhere properly during the cooking process.

Step 4: Let Them Rest
Allow the coated banana pepper rings to rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps the flour mixture stick better during air frying, promoting extra crunchiness. While you wait, you can get your air fryer ready for the next step!

Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for achieving that golden, crispy texture we desire in our air fryer banana pepper coins. Once preheated, carefully arrange the pepper rings in the air fryer basket in a single layer to ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Air Fry the Coins
Mist the pepper rings with olive oil spray for that irresistible crispy finish. Air fry the banana pepper coins for about 8 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end to ensure they don’t overcook and become too dark.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once cooked, carefully transfer the pepper rings to a paper towel-lined baking sheet to cool for about 5 minutes. This will help absorb any excess oil and maintain their crunchiness. After cooling, your crispy air fryer banana pepper coins are ready to be served as a delightful appetizer!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Air Fryer Banana Pepper Coins are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weekdays! You can slice and coat the banana peppers up to 24 hours in advance; simply store the coated rings in an airtight container lined with parchment paper to maintain their crispiness. To ensure they stay fresh, refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. When you’re set to enjoy your appetizer, just preheat the air fryer, arrange the pepper rings in a single layer, and follow the cooking instructions as usual. This way, you’ll have hot, crunchy pepper coins ready to serve with minimal effort, just as delicious as if you made them fresh!

Expert Tips for Air Fryer Banana Pepper Coins

Resting Time Matters: Letting the coated banana pepper rings rest allows the flour to adhere properly, enhancing crunchiness during cooking.
Uniform Slices: Slice the peppers evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate, giving you a consistent texture in every bite.
Avoid Overcrowding: To achieve that perfect crispiness, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Air circulation is key for cooking air fryer banana pepper coins evenly.
Generous Oil Spray: Don’t skimp on the olive oil spray! A good mist on both sides promotes that beautiful golden finish and helps achieve the desired crispiness.
Experiment with Coatings: Feel free to switch up your coatings—try adding spices or even cheese to create unique flavor profiles for your air fryer banana pepper coins!

Storage Tips for Air Fryer Banana Pepper Coins

Fridge: Store leftover cooled air fryer banana pepper coins in a paper towel-lined container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, retaining their flavor and crunch.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled coins on a baking sheet until firm. Then transfer them to an airtight bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer to bring back that crispy texture.

Reheating: To reheat, place the frozen or refrigerated coins back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, ensuring they crisp up nicely again.

Air Fryer Banana Pepper Coins Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these delightful bites to suit your unique taste!

Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños to the coating for a zesty kick that elevates each bite with fiery flavor.
Herb-Infused: Mix in dried herbs like oregano or basil into your flour mixture for an aromatic burst, perfect for herb lovers.
Cheesy Delight: Incorporate grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese into your coating for a rich, savory kick that pairs beautifully with the peppers.
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of garlic powder for a deliciously smoky essence that takes these coins to the next level.
Extra Crunch: Substitute panko breadcrumbs for half of the flour to create an even crispier coating that adds delightful texture, making every bite pop.
Garlic Lovers: Increase the amount of garlic powder or add finely minced fresh garlic to the mix for an even more robust garlic flavor.
Sweet and Spicy: Drizzle honey or a sweet hot sauce over the finished coins to create an irresistible sweet and spicy contrast, perfect for those adventurous palates.
Stuffed Peppers: For a fun twist, stuff the banana peppers with cream cheese or goat cheese before coating and air frying, adding a creamy surprise in each coin.

Whichever variation you choose, these crispy delights will surely enhance your next gathering! For more delicious ideas, consider pairing with my Roasted Red Pepper soup or enjoy them alongside some Banana Pudding Rice treats for a sweet finish.

What to Serve with Crispy Air Fryer Banana Pepper Coins

Transform your snack time with a delightful spread that elevates these crispy, tangy bites into a full meal experience!

Ranch Dip: The cool creaminess of ranch dip balances the peppers’ crunch, making each bite sensationally satisfying. It’s an all-time favorite for a reason!
Creamy Avocado Sauce: This silky sauce adds a fresh, buttery layer that beautifully complements the tangy flavor of the banana peppers.
Charcuterie Board: Serve these crispy coins with an array of cheeses, cured meats, and olives for a visually stunning and flavor-packed sharing platter.
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: A crunchy side that enhances the meal with a nutritious twist, plus their sweetness plays delightfully against the peppers’ tanginess.
Garden Salad: A light, refreshing garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette provides a lovely contrast to the crispy texture, making for a balanced meal.
Pineapple Salsa: This fruity salsa introduces a vibrant sweetness that pairs perfectly with the heat of the banana peppers for a tropical, zestful touch.
Beer or Cider: Enjoy these crispy air fryer banana pepper coins with a chilled beer or crisp cider. They make for the perfect pairing on a casual night in!
Lemon Sorbet: For a light dessert that refreshes the palate, serve a scoop of lemon sorbet to cleanse the taste buds after those savory bites.
Stuffed Peppers: If you really want to lean into the pepper experience, consider stuffing sweet bell peppers with a savory cheese mix for a harmonious theme across your meal.

Crispy Air Fryer Banana Pepper Coins Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe banana peppers?
Absolutely! When choosing banana peppers, look for firm, shiny skin without any wrinkles or dark spots. The peppers should feel heavy for their size, indicating freshness. Avoid any peppers with soft spots or blemishes, as these might be past their prime.

How should I store leftover banana pepper coins?
Very simple! After they’ve cooled, place the leftover crispy air fryer banana pepper coins in a paper towel-lined container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. The paper towel will help absorb moisture, keeping them crispy for your next tasty snack!

Can I freeze these air fryer banana pepper coins?
Absolutely! To freeze the coins, spread the cooled pepper rings in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until firm—about 1 to 2 hours should do the trick. Once they are solid, transfer them to an airtight bag, and they will keep well for up to 2 months. For best results, reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their crispy perfection.

What if my banana pepper coating isn’t sticking?
If you notice the coating isn’t sticking well, there are a couple of things to try. First, ensure that the coated peppers rest for at least 5 minutes before cooking, as this helps the flour adhere better. If they still aren’t sticking, you might consider lightly misting the coated rings with a bit more olive oil or even dipping them in a beaten egg before tossing them in the flour mixture for a more secure coating.

Are air fryer banana pepper coins suitable for gluten-free diets?
Very much so! You can easily make these banana pepper coins gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free, including the seasoning and oil, to keep your appetizer safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can my pets eat banana peppers?
While banana peppers are not toxic to pets, it’s best to serve them in moderation. The mild taste is generally safe, but spicy foods or strong seasonings can upset their stomach. Always check for any allergic reactions and consult your vet if unsure!