Fried Sweet Bananas
Fried Sweet Bananas are a quick and delicious way to enjoy ripe bananas.The bananas are pan-fried until golden and beautifully caramelized.Brown sugar creates a glossy, sweet coating around the fruit.Cinnamon adds a warm and aromatic flavor.The soft banana center contrasts wonderfully with caramelized edges.Serve them alone or with ice cream, pancakes, waffles, or yogurt.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe but firm bananas
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon water, optional
- Powdered sugar
- Shredded coconut
- Vanilla ice cream
Instructions
Choose the Bananas
- Select bananas that are ripe and naturally sweet but still firm enough to hold their shape during cooking.Avoid extremely soft or overripe bananas because they can become mushy in the pan.
Slice the Bananas
- Peel the bananas and slice them lengthwise or diagonally into thick pieces.Thicker slices are easier to turn and less likely to break apart.
Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.Set aside.
Heat the Butter
- Place a large skillet over medium heat.Add the butter and allow it to melt completely.
Fry the Bananas
- Arrange the banana slices in a single layer in the skillet.Cook for approximately 2–3 minutes on the first side until golden brown.Carefully turn each piece and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
Caramelize
- Continue cooking for another 1–2 minutes, gently turning the bananas so they become coated in the buttery caramel mixture.Watch carefully because sugar can burn quickly
Serve Warm
- Remove the skillet from the heat.Transfer the bananas to a serving plate and spoon any remaining caramelized sauce over them.Serve immediately.
Notes
- Banana ripeness: Ripe but firm bananas are best for frying.
- Heat: Medium heat allows the bananas to caramelize without burning.
- Sugar: Brown sugar provides a deeper caramel flavor.
- Butter: Butter adds richness, but coconut oil can also be used.
- Slicing: Thick pieces are easier to handle.
- Turning: Flip the bananas carefully to avoid breaking them.
- Caramel: Don't walk away from the pan once sugar is added.
- Serving: These bananas taste best while warm.