Introduction
Looking for a simple, yet indulgent dessert that comes together in minutes? Look no further than these Pan Fried Cinnamon Bananas! This recipe transforms ripe bananas into a warm, caramelized treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of cooking time, you can create a dessert that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe bananas
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, chopped nuts, chocolate sauce
Preparation Steps
- Peel the bananas and slice them in half lengthwise, then cut each half into 2-3 pieces.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt to the melted butter. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is bubbly.
- Place the sliced bananas in the skillet, cut-side down. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bananas are golden brown and caramelized on the bottom.
- Carefully flip the bananas and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and let the bananas cool slightly before serving.
- Serve the warm, caramelized bananas on their own or with your favorite toppings, such as vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Flavor Profile
These Pan Fried Cinnamon Bananas offer a delightful combination of sweet, warm, and comforting flavors. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas is enhanced by the caramelization process, which creates a rich, golden-brown exterior and a soft, tender interior. The brown sugar and butter create a luscious, sticky sauce that coats the bananas, while the cinnamon adds a warm, spicy note that perfectly complements the fruity flavor.
The vanilla extract and pinch of salt help to balance the sweetness and round out the overall taste profile. When served with creamy vanilla ice cream or fluffy whipped cream, these Pan Fried Cinnamon Bananas become an indulgent, yet simple dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Serving Suggestions
These Pan Fried Cinnamon Bananas are versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:
- Serve them warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of chopped nuts for a classic banana split-inspired dessert.
- Pair them with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a decadent treat.
- Enjoy them on their own as a quick, satisfying snack or a light dessert after a meal.
- Slice them and serve them over warm waffles, pancakes, or French toast for a delicious breakfast or brunch option.
Variations
- Tropical Twist: Add a pinch of shredded coconut and a squeeze of fresh lime juice to the skillet for a tropical-inspired flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Stir in 1/4 cup of chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the butter and sugar mixture for added crunch and nutty flavor.
- Boozy Bananas: Add a splash of dark rum or bourbon to the skillet for an adult-only treat.
- Spiced Variation: Experiment with different spices, such as ground ginger, nutmeg, or allspice, in addition to or instead of cinnamon for a unique flavor profile.
Conclusion
Pan Fried Cinnamon Bananas are a quick, easy, and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. With their warm, caramelized exterior, soft, tender interior, and luscious cinnamon-sugar sauce, these bananas are sure to become a go-to treat for any occasion.
The simplicity of the recipe makes it accessible to cooks of all skill levels, while the versatility of the dish allows for endless customization and experimentation. So next time you find yourself with ripe bananas and a craving for something sweet, give these Pan Fried Cinnamon Bananas a try. You’ll be amazed at how something so simple can taste so delicious!