When those late-night cravings hit, there’s nothing quite like the irresistible allure of a sweet treat. That’s when I discovered the joy of Mexican Fried Bananas. This quick and delightful dessert is perfect for whipping up something special with minimal effort. With just four ingredients—ripe plantains, ground cinnamon, butter, and a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk—you can create a dish that marries a crispy exterior with a soft, warm center.
Imagine the golden plantains sizzling in the skillet, their sweet aroma stimulating your senses as they transform into a flavorful masterpiece. Whether served warm for a cozy dessert or as a snack any time of day, this easy recipe quickly became a staple in my kitchen. Plus, the versatility of toppings—think chocolate syrup or toasted coconut—means you can customize each batch to match your cravings or impress guests! Let’s dive into making these delightful Mexican Fried Bananas together!
Why are Mexican Fried Bananas so irresistible?
Simplicity: With just four ingredients, this recipe is a breeze to whip up, even for novice cooks.
Crispy and Soft: Enjoy a perfect contrast with a crunchy exterior and a warm, tender center.
Flavor Fusion: The addition of sweetened condensed milk transforms each bite into a creamy, indulgent treat.
Versatile Toppings: Customize your dish with chocolate syrup, nuts, or coconut for added flair.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve these at gatherings or as a late-night snack, and watch them disappear!
Mexican Fried Bananas Ingredients
Get ready to create a delicious treat with just four ingredients!
For the Bananas
• Ripe Plantains – The star of this dessert; use black, speckled plantains for the sweetest flavor, or substitute with regular bananas.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds a warm, aromatic touch that complements the sweetness; modify to your taste preference.
For Frying
• Butter – Essential for frying, helping achieve that crispy texture; you can swap this for vegetable oil to keep it dairy-free.
For Drizzling
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – This transforms the dish into a creamy delight; drizzle generously to elevate your Mexican Fried Bananas experience!
How to Make Mexican Fried Bananas
-
Slice the Plantains: Cut the ripe plantains diagonally into thick pieces, about 1 inch in width. This allows for a perfect fry—ensuring that lovely texture that everyone loves!
-
Sprinkle Cinnamon: Lightly dust the sliced plantains with ground cinnamon, making sure to coat them evenly. This adds that delightful warm flavor with every bite.
-
Melt Butter: In a skillet, melt a generous tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Allow it to sizzle until fully melted but not burnt, creating a perfect frying environment.
-
Fry the Plantains: Carefully place the cinnamon-dusted plantain slices into the skillet. Fry them for approximately 2 minutes on each side until the edges turn golden brown and crispy.
-
Drizzle and Serve: Once they’re beautifully crispy, remove the plantains from the skillet. Drizzle them generously with sweetened condensed milk before serving to enhance their sweetness and creaminess.
Optional: Top with chopped nuts or chocolate syrup for an extra treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Making Mexican Fried Bananas
- Choose Ripe Plantains: Look for black, speckled plantains for the sweetest taste; green ones need to ripen before frying.
- Monitor the Frying: Keep an eye on the plantains while frying; they should turn golden brown without burning, which can ruin the flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh butter and sweetened condensed milk yield the best results in your Mexican Fried Bananas, maximizing creaminess and flavor.
- Adjust Cinnamon to Taste: Start with a light sprinkle of ground cinnamon and increase according to your preference; too much can overpower the dish.
- Experiment with Toppings: Consider additional toppings like chocolate syrup or chopped nuts to elevate your dessert; these add extra flavor and texture!
Make Ahead Options
Mexican Fried Bananas are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a quick dessert any time! You can slice the ripe plantains and sprinkle them with ground cinnamon up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in an airtight container to prevent browning. The sweetened condensed milk can also be portioned into small containers for easy access when you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to enjoy, simply melt the butter in a skillet and fry the prepped plantains for about 2 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a delicious, homemade treat ready in no time!
Mexican Fried Bananas Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delicious Mexican Fried Bananas— let’s personalize this delightful treat just for you!
- Regular Bananas: Swap out plantains for ripe regular bananas for a sweeter, more familiar flavor.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use vegetable oil instead of butter for frying, keeping the crispiness without the dairy.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon for a surprising heat that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds on top before serving for a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate with melted chocolate or chocolate syrup for a decadent touch over the sweetened condensed milk.
- Coconut Bliss: Top your bananas with toasted shredded coconut for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the tropical fruit.
- Maple Syrup Delight: Substitute sweetened condensed milk with maple syrup for a distinctly different sweetness that still satisfies.
- Fruit Medley: Serve alongside or top with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a burst of refreshing flavor and color.
Storage Tips for Mexican Fried Bananas
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; for the best taste and texture, enjoy them fresh.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended, as the plantains may become mushy upon thawing, affecting the delightful texture of your Mexican Fried Bananas.
Reheating: If you need to reheat, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to regain some crispness, but note they are best when freshly made.
Serving: For a delightful treat, warm them slightly before serving, and don’t forget to drizzle extra sweetened condensed milk if you desire!
What to Serve with Mexican Fried Bananas?
Warm spicy aromas in the air make meal pairing an exciting adventure, especially with these golden delights.
- Coconut Ice Cream: This creamy treat adds a tropical twist and makes for a refreshing contrast to warm fried bananas.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Enhances sweetness and brings a rich, indulgent flavor that perfectly complements the dessert’s warmth.
- Toasted Nuts: Sprinkling with chopped almonds or pecans adds a beautiful crunch and nutty flavor that balances the softness of the bananas.
- Fresh Berries: Bright and tart, berries like strawberries or raspberries provide a refreshing burst that cuts through the richness.
- Coffee: A cup of strong, rich coffee makes for a delightful pairing, offering a warm and stimulating contrast to the dessert.
- Margaritas: For a festive touch, serve with a light, citrusy margarita to add a celebratory flair to your meal.
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, a dollop of whipped cream elevates the dessert’s creaminess and adds a luxurious touch.
- Menu Ideas: For a full meal, consider pairing with savory tacos or a fresh salad to start—perfect before indulging in these sweet bites!
Mexican Fried Bananas Recipe FAQs
What type of plantains should I use for Mexican Fried Bananas?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and sweetness, use ripe, black, speckled plantains. They provide that perfect balance of sweetness and texture. If you can’t find plantains, regular bananas are a suitable substitute, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.
How should I store leftover Mexican Fried Bananas?
To keep your leftover Mexican Fried Bananas delicious, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last for up to 3 days, but I always recommend enjoying them fresh for the best taste and texture!
Can I freeze Mexican Fried Bananas?
Freezing is not ideal for these delightful treats. Plantains can become mushy when thawed, affecting their crispy texture. If you do want to preserve them for later, the best option is to store them in the fridge and consume within 3 days.
What should I do if my plantains are not frying properly?
If your plantains are not frying as expected, make sure they are sliced thick enough—approximately 1 inch is perfect. Also, ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding them! If they aren’t golden after 2 minutes per side, adjust the heat slightly to achieve that desired crunch.
Is there a dairy-free option for frying Mexican Fried Bananas?
Very! You can easily substitute butter with vegetable oil to make this recipe dairy-free. It helps achieve that delightful crispiness while keeping the flavors intact.
Are there any allergens I should be aware of when making Mexican Fried Bananas?
While the main ingredients in this recipe are fairly allergy-friendly, be aware that sweetened condensed milk contains milk and may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies. You could consider using a dairy-free condensed milk alternative if needed!
Savor Sweet & Crispy Mexican Fried Bananas in Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut the ripe plantains diagonally into thick pieces, about 1 inch in width.
- Lightly dust the sliced plantains with ground cinnamon, ensuring an even coat.
- In a skillet, melt a generous tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Carefully place the cinnamon-dusted plantain slices into the skillet and fry for approximately 2 minutes on each side.
- Remove the plantains from the skillet and drizzle generously with sweetened condensed milk before serving.