Description
Pan-Fried Cinnamon Bananas are a quick and delicious sweet treat featuring ripe bananas caramelized in butter and brown sugar, enhanced with warm cinnamon and optional vanilla extract. This simple stovetop recipe yields a soft, golden, fragrant dessert that can be enjoyed on its own or with whipped cream or fresh mint for garnish.
Ingredients
Scale
Bananas
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
For Cooking & Flavor
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
For Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh mint leaves
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Bananas: Peel the bananas and slice them into rounds about ½ inch thick to ensure even cooking and caramelization.
- Melt Butter: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat, creating a rich base for frying the bananas.
- Cook Bananas: Add the banana slices to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they become golden brown and soft, developing a delightful caramelized exterior.
- Mix Spices: While the bananas cook, combine 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl to make the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Coat Bananas: Once the bananas are cooked, sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over them, tossing gently to coat each slice thoroughly.
- Caramelize: Add the optional ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the bananas to caramelize beautifully and absorb the flavor.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh mint or whipped cream if desired for an extra touch of freshness and creaminess.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Adjust the brown sugar according to your preferred sweetness level.
- Vanilla extract is optional but adds a lovely depth of flavor.
- This dish is best served immediately while warm and caramelized.
- For a vegan option, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
