Welcome to our sweet treats section! Today, we’re sharing a delightful recipe for Skillet Banana Fritters. These fritters are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with the delicious flavor of ripe bananas. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these fritters are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Mash Bananas: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the milk and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas and mix well.
- Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 2: Fry the Fritters
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small amount of batter into it; if it sizzles and floats to the top, it’s ready.
- Fry Fritters: Drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil, frying a few fritters at a time. Do not overcrowd the skillet. Fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Drain: Use a slotted spoon to remove the fritters from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 3: Serve
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: If desired, dust the fritters with powdered sugar for added sweetness.
- Serve Warm: Serve the banana fritters warm and enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Banana Ripeness: Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Oil Temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for achieving crispy fritters. Too hot, and they will burn; too cool, and they will absorb too much oil.
- Batch Frying: Fry the fritters in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy fritters.
Variations
Coconut Banana Fritters
Add 1/4 cup of shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist.
Nutty Banana Fritters
Fold in 1/4 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the batter for added texture and flavor.
Chocolate Chip Banana Fritters
Mix in 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet surprise in every bite.
Spiced Banana Fritters
Add a pinch of nutmeg and cloves to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these fritters gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these fritters gluten-free.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I bake these fritters instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the fritters. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place spoonfuls of batter on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
What can I serve with these fritters?
These fritters are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a dipping sauce such as chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or a drizzle of honey.
How can I make the fritters less sweet?
Reduce the amount of granulated sugar in the batter or omit the powdered sugar dusting to make the fritters less sweet.
These Skillet Banana Fritters are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their crispy exterior and soft, banana-flavored interior, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy making and sharing these delicious fritters with your family and friends!