If you’re looking for a dessert that delivers on flavor, simplicity, and pure comfort, these Skillet Banana Fritters just might become your new favorite. Imagine golden-brown, lightly crisp edges giving way to a fluffy center that bursts with ripe banana, a gentle hint of spice, and the kind of cozy sweetness that makes everyone smile. Perfect as a quick treat or a showstopper at brunch, this delightful Caribbean-inspired snack is joyfully easy to make with pantry staples. Trust me, the first bite always leads to more — it’s impossible to stop at just one!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Part of the magic of Skillet Banana Fritters is how each ingredient brings something special to the table. You’ll find these are all familiar items, but together, they create an irresistibly moist and fragrant treat you’ll crave again and again.
- Ripe Bananas (3, mashed): The natural sweetness and creamy texture of super-ripe bananas are the heart of these fritters. The riper, the better!
- All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): Flour brings the batter together while keeping the fritters light and just firm enough to hold their shape.
- Granulated Sugar (2 tablespoons): A subtle touch of sweetness enhances the bananas without overwhelming their flavor.
- Baking Powder (1/2 teaspoon): A lift of baking powder creates that irresistible fluffiness.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): A little salt accentuates all the other flavors beautifully.
- Ground Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): This spice adds gentle warmth and an irresistible aroma.
- Ground Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Just a hint deepens the flavor and makes each bite pop.
- Large Egg (1): The egg binds everything together and adds richness.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): A splash elevates the overall flavor and gives a colorful background note.
- Milk (1/4 cup): A little milk smooths the batter and makes the fritters perfectly tender.
- Vegetable Oil (for frying): You only need enough to coat the bottom of the skillet for a golden, crisp finish.
- Powdered Sugar or Honey (for topping, optional): A dusting or drizzle turns these into an irresistible dessert or brunch treat.
How to Make Skillet Banana Fritters
Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, egg, vanilla extract, and milk. Stir until you have a silky, well-blended mixture that already smells delicious — the banana and vanilla together are a preview of what’s to come!
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This helps distribute the baking powder and spices evenly, ensuring every fritter gets its fair share of flavor and lift.
Step 3: Bring It All Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet banana mixture. Fold gently with a spatula or spoon until just combined — it’s perfectly fine if the batter is a little lumpy. Don’t overwork it: tender fritters are the goal!
Step 4: Fry the Fritters
Pour about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat it over medium. Once the oil is shimmering hot (test with a tiny drop of batter — it should sizzle), drop in spoonfuls of the batter. Swirl each gently flat with the back of your spoon for even cooking, then fry for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. They should be deep golden brown and utterly tempting.
Step 5: Drain and Finish
Lift the fritters out with a slotted spatula and drain them briefly on paper towels. While they’re still warm, dust with powdered sugar or give them a generous drizzle of honey for a touch of magic. Now, try not to eat them all before serving!
How to Serve Skillet Banana Fritters
Garnishes
Serve Skillet Banana Fritters with a flurry of powdered sugar, a glossy stream of honey, or even a sprinkle of toasted coconut for extra island vibes. For a decadent treat, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream on the side.
Side Dishes
These fritters are wonderful on their own, but they also shine alongside a fresh fruit salad, tangy yogurt, or a cup of rich coffee or chai tea. Try serving them as a playful addition to a brunch spread full of tropical fruits or savory egg dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange Skillet Banana Fritters in a tower, layer them with fresh berries for a colorful effect, or cut them into bite-size pieces for dipping. For parties, serve them on toothpicks with chocolate or caramel sauce for a build-your-own-dessert bar everyone will talk about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra fritters (lucky you!), cool them completely before storing them in an airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to two days at room temperature, and remain surprisingly moist and flavorful.
Freezing
To enjoy Skillet Banana Fritters later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container; they’ll keep for up to two months. Just be sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat fritters in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you can — it softens them — but in a pinch, just zap for 10–15 seconds at a time until warm.
FAQs
Can I make Skillet Banana Fritters gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free baking blend. Just check that it already contains xanthan gum or add a small pinch to mimic the elasticity of regular flour.
How do I know when the oil is ready for frying?
The oil should shimmer and a small drop of batter should immediately sizzle when it hits the surface. If you have a thermometer, aim for 350°F, but don’t worry if you’re eyeballing it — just avoid letting the oil smoke.
What else can I add to make the fritters unique?
Stir in a handful of shredded coconut, chopped nuts, a pinch of cardamom, or even a little rum for a festive twist. The recipe is wonderfully flexible, so feel free to play!
Can I use something other than honey or powdered sugar as a topping?
Definitely. Try a drizzle of chocolate sauce, caramel, or even a tangy fruit compote if you’re feeling fancy. Maple syrup is also a divine option for that brunchy feel.
How do I keep the fritters warm for a group?
Place finished Skillet Banana Fritters on a wire rack in a 200°F oven while you finish frying the rest. This keeps them crisp and warm until everyone’s ready to dig in together.
Final Thoughts
Making Skillet Banana Fritters is like giving yourself and your loved ones a warm, sweet hug. With simple ingredients and just a few easy steps, you’ll have a plateful of golden treats that are impossible to resist. Go ahead — whip up a batch and discover the joy for yourself!
Print
Skillet Banana Fritters Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 fritters
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Caribbean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delightful Skillet Banana Fritters for a taste of the Caribbean right in your kitchen. These crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside treats are bursting with banana flavor and warm spices, making them a perfect dessert or snack option.
Ingredients
Banana Fritters:
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk
- vegetable oil for frying
For Topping (Optional):
- powdered sugar or honey
Instructions
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, egg, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fry the Fritters: Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. 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.
- Serve: Remove the fritters and drain on paper towels. Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of rum or a handful of shredded coconut to the batter.
- These fritters are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in a toaster oven.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fritter
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
