Hey y'all! If you've ever craved a quick, sweet treat that's bursting with warm cinnamon flavor and caramelized goodness, you're in for a real treat with these Pan Fried Cinnamon Bananas. They're so easy to make, absolutely delicious, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a simple dessert. Whether you're entertaining guests or just want to treat yourself, this recipe is a game-changer. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Pan Fried Cinnamon Bananas Recipe
- Ready in under 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous cravings.
- Uses just a handful of simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
- Delivers an irresistible caramelized texture with warm, spicy-sweet flavor.
- Versatile—enjoy as a breakfast topper, dessert, or even a snack.
- Kid-friendly and naturally gluten-free!
Ingredients for Pan Fried Cinnamon Bananas
- 2 ripe—but firm—bananas
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How to Make Pan Fried Cinnamon Bananas
Step 1: Prep the Bananas
Peel the bananas and slice them into ½-inch thick rounds. Make sure they’re not overly ripe, so they hold their shape while cooking.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Add Sugar
In a large nonstick skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once bubbly, sprinkle in the brown sugar and stir until it begins to dissolve and melt, about 1 minute.
Step 3: Add Bananas and Cinnamon
Carefully add the banana slices in a single layer. Sprinkle cinnamon and a pinch of salt evenly over the bananas. Let them cook undisturbed for 2 minutes to caramelize.
Step 4: Flip and Finish
Gently flip the banana slices using a spatula. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden and caramelized on both sides. Remove from heat and drizzle vanilla extract over the bananas.
Notes & Helpful Tips for Pan Fried Cinnamon Bananas
- Use bananas that are just ripe but still firm to avoid mushy results.
- If you like extra sauce, add a splash of milk or cream during the last minute of cooking. Learn more about cooking with bananas.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut oil for butter.
Variations: Fun Twists on Pan Fried Cinnamon Bananas
- Nutty Goodness: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the bananas before serving.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for a decadent dessert.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne for an unexpected kick.
Equipment Needed for Pan Fried Cinnamon Bananas
- Nonstick skillet or frying pan
- Spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Storage Instructions for Pan Fried Cinnamon Bananas
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a skillet over low heat. Note: The bananas will soften further after refrigeration.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings for Pan Fried Cinnamon Bananas
- Serve warm over pancakes, waffles, or French toast for a breakfast upgrade.
- Enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a quick dessert.
- Use as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt bowls.
Pro Tips for the Best Pan Fried Cinnamon Bananas
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary for even caramelization.
- Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt to enhance the sweet flavors. For more caramelization tips, check out this caramelization guide.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
FAQ: Pan Fried Cinnamon Bananas
- Can I use very ripe bananas? It's best to use bananas that are just ripe and still firm, as very ripe bananas may become too mushy when fried.
- Can I make these bananas vegan? Absolutely! Swap the butter for coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.
- What sugar works best? Brown sugar adds a rich, caramel flavor, but you can substitute coconut sugar or maple syrup for a different twist. Learn more about sugar alternatives here.
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 8 minutes
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for drizzling)
- Nonstick cooking spray (optional)
Instructions
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1Peel and slice the bananas into ½-inch thick rounds.
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2In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
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3Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Once melted, swirl to coat the pan.
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4Add the banana slices to the skillet in a single layer. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the bananas and add a pinch of salt.
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5Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden and caramelized, then gently flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Drizzle with vanilla extract during the last minute of cooking.
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6Transfer the pan fried cinnamon bananas to a plate. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup if desired. Serve warm.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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