Skillet Banana Fritters Recipe
Prepare to fall head over heels for Skillet Banana Fritters! This is the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug from your kitchen: golden, crisp-edged bites filled with tender, sweet banana. The magic is in its simplicity, marrying pantry staples with ripe bananas to create fritters that are a brunch showstopper or an anytime treat. Whether you dust them in powdered sugar or drizzle on a bit of honey, every bite of these Skillet Banana Fritters teases out nostalgic comfort and pure delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Skillet Banana Fritters lies in its humble ingredient list. Each element plays its part to create fritters with gorgeous flavor, texture, and irresistible aroma. Stock up on these basics, and you’re halfway to a winning breakfast or snack!
- Bananas (3 ripe, mashed): Overripe bananas provide natural sweetness and moistness, perfect for a soft, rich center.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): This binds the batter and offers enough structure for the fritters to hold their shape.
- Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons): Just the right touch of sweetness to complement the bananas without overpowering them.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): This gives the fritters their lovely lift and fluffy texture.
- Ground cinnamon (½ teaspoon): Cinnamon warms up the flavor, adding an inviting, spicy-sweet note.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): A dash of salt sharpens flavors and balances sweetness.
- Large egg (1): The egg helps to bind the ingredients and gives the batter richness.
- Milk (¼ cup): Adds moisture, ensuring your fritters are tender and not too dense.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Vanilla amplifies the natural sweetness and aroma of the bananas.
- Vegetable oil (for frying): A neutral oil is best for crisp, golden exteriors without affecting flavor.
- Powdered sugar or honey (optional, for serving): For a decadent finishing touch—either a snowy dusting or a glossy drizzle!
How to Make Skillet Banana Fritters
Step 1: Mash and Mix the Wet Ingredients
Start by peeling your bananas and mashing them thoroughly in a large bowl. The riper the banana, the better—they should have lots of brown spots for peak sweetness. Add in the egg, milk, and vanilla extract, stirring until everything is nicely blended and slightly creamy.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This step ensures your leavening agent and spices are evenly distributed, which means every bite of your Skillet Banana Fritters will taste as good as the last.
Step 3: Bring the Batter Together
Gradually stir the dry mixture into your wet banana mixture. Don’t overmix—just fold until combined. The batter should be thick, but still spoonable. Overmixing can make your fritters tough rather than tender, so a few lumps are completely fine here.
Step 4: Heat the Skillet and Fry
Pour enough vegetable oil into a large skillet to coat the bottom (about 1/4 inch deep), and warm it over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering but not smoking, scoop generous spoonfuls of batter into the skillet, gently flattening them with the back of your spoon. Fry the fritters for 2–3 minutes per side, turning when the edges are golden and crisp.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Transfer cooked fritters onto a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any excess oil. Serve them warm, dusted generously with powdered sugar or drizzled with honey. Whether you’re sharing with friends or sneaking a few yourself, Skillet Banana Fritters are best enjoyed fresh!
How to Serve Skillet Banana Fritters
Garnishes
A final flourish goes a long way. My favorite touch is a snowfall of powdered sugar—it melts beautifully into the hot fritters. For a more indulgent treat, drizzle warm honey over the top, or even a splash of maple syrup for breakfast. A sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a scattering of toasted nuts can add color and crunch.
Side Dishes
Skillet Banana Fritters are wonderful with tangy Greek yogurt and a handful of fresh berries for contrast. They also pair well alongside crispy bacon or turkey sausage for those who love a sweet-savory combination. For a lighter presentation, serve with a fresh fruit salad or a pitcher of spiced chai.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the plate! Stack fritters high and spear them with a decorative skewer for a party-perfect tower. Mini versions make adorable finger food for brunch buffets. Or try sandwiching two fritters together with a scoop of coconut ice cream for a playful dessert (trust me, this combo is irresistible).
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Skillet Banana Fritters left (which is a big “if”), let them cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep for up to 2 days and make a delicious snack, even cold!
Freezing
Want to batch prep? Lay cooled fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
To revive that just-fried crispness, warm leftover Skillet Banana Fritters in a 350°F oven for about 8–10 minutes, or heat them in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat for a couple of minutes per side. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I make Skillet Banana Fritters gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend—I’ve had great results with those containing xanthan gum for binding. Just check the consistency of the batter, as some blends are more absorbent than others.
What are the best bananas to use?
Look for bananas that are heavily speckled or mostly brown; these are the sweetest and mash up smoothest. Underripe, yellow bananas won’t yield the same depth of flavor or moisture, so a little patience goes a long way.
Can I add mix-ins to the batter?
Why not! Skillet Banana Fritters are delicious with handfuls of chopped walnuts, pecans, or even mini chocolate chips folded into the batter. Have fun playing with your favorite additions for extra flavor and texture.
How do I know when the oil is ready for frying?
Drop a small spoonful of batter into the oil; if it sizzles immediately and bubbles form around the edges, you’re good to go. Just be careful not to overheat, otherwise the fritters can get too dark before they cook through.
Are these fritters suitable for kids?
You bet! Skillet Banana Fritters are a family-friendly treat, naturally sweet and soft enough for little ones to enjoy. Skip the honey for those under 1 year old, or let them choose their own toppings for a fun breakfast project.
Final Thoughts
Whip up a batch of Skillet Banana Fritters and watch them disappear—they’re that irresistible. Whether you make them for a lazy brunch or a cozy afternoon treat, these fritters are sure to become a beloved recipe in your home. Give them a try and let your kitchen fill with warmth, sweetness, and happy memories!
Print
Skillet Banana Fritters Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 fritters 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Skillet Banana Fritters are a delightful breakfast treat, combining the sweetness of ripe bananas with a crispy fried coating. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a special morning indulgence.
Ingredients
For the fritters:
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For serving:
- Powdered sugar or honey (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, egg, milk, and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture and stir until just combined.
- Heat about ¼ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the skillet, flattening slightly with the back of the spoon. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with honey if desired.
Notes
- For crispier fritters, make sure the oil is properly heated before frying.
- You can add a handful of chopped walnuts or mini chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Caribbean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fritter
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
