Description
Skillet Banana Fritters
Turn overripe bananas into a crispy, golden treat with these easy skillet banana fritters! With roots in African and Caribbean cuisines, these fritters are perfect for a nostalgic taste of the tropics. Serve them up hot for breakfast with maple syrup, or as a dessert with ice cream – either way, they’re irresistible!
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
Oil for frying
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Directions
1. Mash bananas until smooth.
2. In another bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add dry ingredients, milk, and vanilla to the bananas. Stir until combined.
4. Heat oil in a skillet, scoop batter, and fry 2-3 mins per side.
5. Drain on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Kcal: 200 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect fritters every time. First, ensure your bananas are very ripe with brown spots for maximum sweetness and easy mashing. In a medium bowl, mash them thoroughly with a fork until no large lumps remain. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and spices.
Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the mashed bananas, milk, and vanilla extract. Using a spatula, gently fold the mixture until just combined. A slightly lumpy batter is ideal; overmixing will develop gluten and make the fritters tough. Heat about 1/4 inch of a neutral oil (like vegetable or canola) in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. Test the oil by dropping a small bit of batter in; it should sizzle gently. For each fritter, drop a heaping tablespoon of batter into the hot oil, gently flattening it slightly. Do not overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until deeply golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile fritters can be enjoyed in numerous ways. For a decadent breakfast or brunch, drizzle with warm maple syrup or honey and add a side of crispy bacon. As a dessert, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, and a caramel or chocolate sauce. For a simpler treat, a light dusting of powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar is perfect. They also pair wonderfully with fresh berries, a fruit compote, or a spoonful of tangy Greek yogurt.
How-to Summary
Mash ripe bananas. Whisk dry ingredients in a separate bowl. Combine wet and dry ingredients to form a batter. Heat oil in a skillet. Scoop batter and fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Drain on paper towels and serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the batter ahead of time? It’s best to cook the fritters immediately after mixing the batter. Letting it sit can cause the bananas to oxidize and the baking powder to lose potency, resulting in denser fritters.
Can I use a different type of flour? For a gluten-free version, a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend typically works well. Note that whole wheat flour will yield a denser, heartier texture.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer to restore crispiness. The microwave will make them soft.
My fritters are raw in the middle. What happened? This usually means the oil was too hot, causing the outside to brown before the inside cooks. Ensure your oil is at a steady medium heat, not smoking, and that your fritters are not too thick.
Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes, for a lighter option. Drop batter onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, shape into rounds, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. They will be more cake-like than crispy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: This leads to tough, chewy fritters. Mix until ingredients are just combined.
- Incorrect oil temperature: Oil that’s too cool makes fritters greasy; too hot burns the outside. Aim for a steady sizzle.
- Using underripe bananas: They lack sweetness and are harder to mash, resulting in less flavorful fritters.
- Crowding the skillet: This lowers the oil temperature and causes fritters to steam instead of fry. Cook in batches.
- Not draining on paper towels: Skipping this step leaves excess oil on the fritters, making them soggy.
Conclusion
Skillet Banana Fritters are a wonderfully simple and satisfying way to transform overripe fruit into a delightful treat. With their crispy edges, soft centers, and warm spiced flavor, they bridge the gap between breakfast and dessert effortlessly. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master this recipe that celebrates global culinary traditions. Whether enjoyed with a simple dusting of sugar or dressed up with decadent toppings, these fritters are sure to become a cherished favorite in your home kitchen.