Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect when you’ve got overripe bananas and want something quick yet indulgent. The bananas become caramelized and soft, absorbing all the sweet and spicy flavors from cinnamon and sugar. It’s a no-fuss, satisfying snack or a sweet topping for pancakes, oatmeal, or ice cream. It’s also ready in just 10 minutes, making it ideal for busy mornings or lazy afternoons.
Ingredients
- 2 bananas (slightly overripe)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (or substitute)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Instructions
1. Slice the Bananas
Slice the bananas into rounds, approximately ⅓ inch thick.
2. Mix the Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, combine the sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Set aside.
3. Pan Fry the Bananas
Lightly spray a large skillet with nonstick oil spray and warm it over medium-low heat. Add the banana slices to the skillet.
4. Add the Cinnamon Sugar
Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the banana slices. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the bananas begin to soften and caramelize.
5. Flip and Cook
Flip the banana slices over and sprinkle the remaining cinnamon mixture on top. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the bananas are soft, golden, and warmed through.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the pan-fried cinnamon bananas on their own, or sprinkle with powdered sugar, top with vanilla ice cream, or drizzle with chocolate syrup for a decadent treat.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations & Tips
- Add a Splash of Vanilla: Add a drop of vanilla extract to the cinnamon sugar mixture for extra flavor.
- Healthy Version: Use coconut sugar or honey instead of granulated sugar for a more natural sweetness.
- Nutty Crunch: Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) to the bananas while cooking for a nice crunch.
- Serve with Yogurt: For a healthy breakfast, serve the bananas over Greek yogurt for added protein.
- Banana Foster Style: Flambé the bananas with a splash of rum and serve over vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Storage/Reheating
These bananas are best served immediately for the best texture and flavor. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat them in the microwave for about 30 seconds or in a skillet for a couple of minutes to warm them up again.
FAQs
1. Can I use underripe bananas for this recipe?
It’s best to use slightly overripe bananas for this recipe, as they become sweeter and caramelize better. However, if you use underripe bananas, they will still work, but they might not have the same soft, caramelized texture.
2. Can I substitute the sugar?
Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with brown sugar, maple syrup, or coconut sugar. Each option will give a slightly different flavor, but they all work well.
3. Can I add more spices to the mixture?
Absolutely! You can add cinnamon, cloves, allspice, or pumpkin pie spice to give it a more complex flavor. Just be sure to adjust the quantities to taste.
4. Can I use a non-stick pan?
Yes, a non-stick pan works perfectly for this recipe and makes it easier to flip the banana slices without sticking.
5. Can I make these bananas ahead of time?
These bananas are best served immediately after cooking, as they are soft and warm. If you make them ahead, they may become mushy when stored.
Conclusion
These Pan Fried Cinnamon Bananas are an easy, quick, and delicious way to enjoy bananas in a new way. With just a few ingredients and a skillet, you can create a flavorful snack or topping in no time. Whether you serve them for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, they are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Pan Fried Cinnamon Bananas
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: Pan-fried
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pan Fried Cinnamon Bananas recipe is a quick, easy, and delicious treat. In just 10 minutes, you can enjoy caramelized banana slices coated in cinnamon and sugar. Perfect as a snack, dessert topping, or part of your breakfast!
Ingredients
2 bananas (slightly overripe)
2 tablespoons sugar (or substitute)
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
-
Slice the Bananas: Slice the bananas into rounds, approximately ⅓ inch thick.
-
Mix the Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, combine the sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Set aside.
-
Pan Fry the Bananas: Lightly spray a large skillet with nonstick oil spray and warm it over medium-low heat. Add the banana slices to the skillet.
-
Add the Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the banana slices. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the bananas begin to soften and caramelize.
-
Flip and Cook: Flip the banana slices over and sprinkle the remaining cinnamon mixture on top. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the bananas are soft, golden, and warmed through.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the pan-fried cinnamon bananas on their own, or sprinkle with powdered sugar, top with vanilla ice cream, or drizzle with chocolate syrup for a decadent treat.
Notes
Healthy Version: Use coconut sugar or honey instead of granulated sugar for a more natural sweetness.
Nutty Crunch: Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) to the bananas while cooking for a nice crunch.
Vanilla Twist: Add a drop of vanilla extract to the cinnamon sugar mixture for extra flavor.
