Description
2 ripe bananas, sliced into ½-inch rounds
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Directions
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
In a small bowl, mix honey (or maple syrup), cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt.
Add banana slices to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
Drizzle the cinnamon mixture over the bananas and gently flip each piece. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until caramelized.
Remove from heat and serve warm. Enjoy on its own or as a topping for oatmeal, yogurt, pancakes, or ice cream.
Prep Time: 5 minutes, Cooking Time: 5 minutes, Total Time: 10 minutes, Kcal: 120 per serving, Servings: 2
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect caramelized bananas every time. First, ensure your bananas are ripe but still firm, with some brown speckles for optimal sweetness and texture. Slice them evenly into 1/2-inch rounds to ensure uniform cooking. Heat your skillet over medium heat—not higher, to prevent burning—and melt the unsalted butter until it foams slightly. While the butter melts, whisk the honey, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt in a small bowl until fully combined. Carefully place the banana slices in the skillet in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t touching. Cook undisturbed for 1-2 minutes until a deep golden-brown crust forms. Drizzle the cinnamon-honey mixture evenly over the bananas. Using a thin spatula, gently flip each slice. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the bananas in a glossy caramel. Immediately remove from heat to stop the cooking process.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile bananas elevate both breakfast and dessert. For a decadent breakfast, spoon them over Greek yogurt, oatmeal, or whole-grain pancakes or waffles. As a dessert, they are sublime atop vanilla ice cream, cheesecake, or a bowl of warm rice pudding. For a more sophisticated presentation, serve alongside a scoop of coconut sorbet or as a topping for French toast. A sprinkle of chopped nuts or a drizzle of nut butter adds wonderful texture and protein.
How-to Summary
In summary: Slice ripe bananas. Melt butter in a skillet. Whisk honey, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt. Cook banana slices for 1-2 minutes per side, adding the sauce after flipping, until caramelized. Serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey.
How do I store leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or skillet.
My bananas turned mushy. What went wrong? This usually means the heat was too high or the bananas were overripe. Use medium heat and bananas that are firm enough to hold their shape when sliced.
Can I use other sweeteners? Absolutely. Maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown sugar mixed with a teaspoon of water will work well.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly? It’s not recommended, as the texture of the thawed bananas will be very soft and watery.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using High Heat: This burns the butter and sugar before the bananas caramelize properly. Stick to medium heat.
- Crowding the Pan: Overlapping slices steam instead of caramelize. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Using Unripe Bananas: They lack the necessary sweetness and won’t caramelize as well.
- Stirring Instead of Flipping: Agitating the bananas breaks them down. Flip each slice individually with care.
- Walking Away: The process is fast. Stay by the stove to prevent burning.
Conclusion
This simple 10-minute recipe transforms basic bananas into a luxurious, caramelized topping. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a consistently delicious result. Its flexibility for both breakfast and dessert makes it a valuable trick for any home cook. Enjoy the process and the delightful, warm flavor it brings to your table.
