Caramelized Bananas
Quick and easy Caramelized Bananas recipe that transforms ripe bananas into a golden, buttery caramel delight. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack, made with simple pantry ingredients in under 10 minutes. Soft bananas coated in a rich caramel glaze provide a naturally sweet treat that’s versatile and indulgent.
- Author: Nina
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 2–3 ripe bananas (slightly soft with brown spots)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Peel and slice your ripe bananas into thick, even rounds or halved lengthwise to ensure consistent caramelization and easy flipping.
- Melt Butter and Brown Sugar: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the brown sugar, stirring until the mixture becomes smooth and bubbling, signaling the start of caramel formation.
- Add Bananas to the Pan: Carefully place the banana slices into the caramel mixture in a single layer. Let them cook without moving for 2-3 minutes so they get a golden crust before gently flipping.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: Turn each banana slice over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, spooning the caramel over the top to coat them evenly while softening the bananas perfectly.
- Add Flavor Enhancers: Remove the pan from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a splash of lemon juice for brightness, plus cinnamon if desired, then carefully spoon the glaze over the bananas again.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the caramelized bananas to plates or bowls and enjoy warm to savor their tender texture and rich flavor.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and best caramelization.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; leave space between slices for even cooking and easier flipping.
- Cook over medium heat to prevent burning or under-caramelizing.
- Use a thin spatula or tongs to gently flip bananas to avoid breaking them.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor when caramel is still warm and glossy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: caramelized bananas, quick dessert, easy banana recipe, caramel glaze, sweet snack, breakfast topping, healthy dessert