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Pan-Fried Cinnamon Bananas: A Sweet, Caramelized Delight

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When it comes to quick and irresistible desserts, few dishes compare to the simple, comforting, and utterly delicious Pan-Fried Cinnamon Bananas. This treat takes just 10 minutes to prepare but offers a flavor experience that lingers far longer. Imagine soft, sweet bananas infused with the warm fragrance of cinnamon, their edges caramelized to golden perfection, and their flavor heightened by a hint of honey. Whether you’re looking to elevate your breakfast, add a luscious topping to your dessert, or enjoy a quick snack, these cinnamon bananas hit the spot every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 Bananas: Choose ripe but firm bananas. Overripe bananas may become mushy when cooked, so opt for bananas that are slightly under-ripe for the best texture.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds the warmth and spiciness that makes this dish stand out. It pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the bananas.
  • 1 Tablespoon Butter: Butter is essential for creating that rich, golden caramelization. You can use unsalted butter for a milder flavor or salted butter for an extra kick.
  • 2 Tablespoons Raw Honey (or regular honey): Honey adds a beautiful, floral sweetness and helps in caramelizing the bananas. Raw honey, in particular, has a slightly more complex flavor but feel free to use regular honey if that’s what you have on hand.

Instructions

  • Prepare the Bananas:
    • Start by peeling the bananas and cutting them into 1/2-inch thick slices. This size allows the bananas to cook through while also getting that beautiful golden caramelization on the edges.
  • Heat the Pan:
    • Place a frying pan on medium-high heat. Add the butter, honey, and cinnamon. Stir gently until the butter is melted and the honey is incorporated into the mixture, forming a golden syrup.
  • Cook the Bananas:
    • Add the sliced bananas to the pan in a single layer. Allow them to cook for 4 minutes on one side. As they cook, you’ll notice the edges of the bananas start to caramelize and turn golden brown.
  • Flip the Bananas:
    • Once the bottoms are nicely caramelized, flip the banana pieces over. You may need to adjust the heat slightly to avoid burning the sugar mixture. Cook the bananas for another 4 minutes on the other side until they’re golden and soft.
  • Serve and Enjoy:
    • Once both sides of the bananas are golden and caramelized, remove them from the heat. Serve immediately over a scoop of vanilla ice cream, Greek yogurt, fluffy pancakes, or warm French toast.

Notes

  • Use Ripe but Firm Bananas: The best bananas for this dish are ripe enough to be sweet but not overripe. Too-ripe bananas tend to become mushy during cooking, so it’s best to use bananas that are just past the green stage but still firm enough to hold their shape.
  • Don’t Rush the Caramelization: Cooking the bananas slowly over medium heat allows them to caramelize nicely without burning. If the heat is too high, the honey and butter can scorch before the bananas have time to cook through. Patience is key for perfect caramelization.
  • Serve Immediately: While the bananas are delicious on their own, they’re best served immediately after cooking, as the caramelized texture and flavor are most prominent when fresh.