All you need is 5 minutes to make these gooey, delicious maple fried bananas. Sweet and caramelized in minutes and incredibly versatile—enjoy them on their own or over your favorite ice cream.
This recipe was published May 2015 and updated June 2021.
These maple fried bananas are the quickest, simplest dessert or dessert topper you can make. In just a few minutes you get caramelized, tender banana slices glazed in maple—perfect by themselves or paired with something cold and creamy.
I love them plain, but they’re especially delicious over a big scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also brighten a bowl of oatmeal or add a sweet finish to pancakes for an easy breakfast upgrade.
Why you will love this recipe:
- Only 3 main ingredients are required.
- Quick to make—ready in about 5 minutes.
- They pair well with oatmeal, pancakes, yogurt, ice cream and baked goods.
- The caramelized banana with rich maple syrup is an irresistible combination.
- An effortless way to satisfy a sweet craving.
Ingredients:
- Bananas: Use just-ripe, firm yellow bananas. Avoid overly brown or mushy fruit, which won’t hold up as well.
- Oil or butter: Coconut oil works great for a subtle flavor; use butter for a richer taste. If you prefer no coconut flavor, use refined coconut oil or another neutral oil.
- Maple syrup: Choose pure maple syrup for the best flavor—avoid pancake syrups.
Variations:
Small tweaks make big differences. Try one of these variations to change the flavor:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
- Swap maple syrup for honey for a slightly different sweetness.
- Finish with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce.
- For an adult twist, add a splash of bourbon or rum while cooking.
How to serve these maple fried bananas:
- They’re fantastic over vanilla ice cream—the hot caramelized bananas with cold ice cream are a perfect contrast.
- Use them to top morning oatmeal for a sweet, satisfying start to the day.
- Layer them with yogurt and granola for a quick, indulgent parfait.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and chopped nuts for an easy dessert presentation.
- Try a maple fried-banana shortcake: use simple sweet biscuits, whipped cream, and these bananas in place of berries.
Notes and Tips:
- Best eaten immediately. These bananas are at their best right after cooking—leftovers can be reheated but won’t have the same caramelized texture.
- Choose the right ripeness. Use bananas that are fully yellow and firm, not green or overly brown and mushy.
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5 Minute Fried Bananas
Ingredients
- 2 bananas, sliced 1/2–3/4 inch thick
- 2 tsp oil or butter, coconut oil preferred
- 2 T maple syrup or honey
- pinch of sea salt, optional
Instructions
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt if using.
- Place banana slices in the pan and cook evenly for about 1½–2 minutes.
- Flip a slice to check for a golden-brown color; flip the rest when browned.
- Cook another 1½–2 minutes until caramelized.
- Serve immediately. Top with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Notes
- Best when fresh: These are most delicious right after cooking. Reheating is possible but the texture changes.
- Pick firm, ripe bananas: Choose yellow, slightly soft but not mushy bananas for the best results.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 34 g,
Protein: 1 g,
Fat: 4 g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.
Did you enjoy this recipe? Have a question?
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