Banana Fritter Recipe

Mix dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, a pinch of fine salt, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon until evenly combined.

Combine wet ingredients

In a separate small bowl, whisk 3 tablespoons milk, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and slightly frothy.

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. If the batter feels very thick, add up to 1 tablespoon additional milk to reach a thick but scoopable batter (similar to pancake batter). If using, whisk in 2 tablespoons cornstarch for a crisper exterior.

Prepare bananas

Peel 2 ripe but firm bananas and cut them into 1/2-inch thick diagonal slices or 2-3 inch chunks, depending on your preferred fritter size. Toss the cut bananas with 1 teaspoon lemon juice to prevent browning.

Working in batches, gently dredge the banana pieces into the batter, coating each piece completely. Use a fork or skewer to lift pieces so excess batter can drip back into the bowl; you want a generous coating but not an overwhelming excess.

Heat oil

Pour 2 cups neutral oil into a heavy-bottomed skillet or saucepan to a depth of about 1 to 1 1/2 inches. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C) or when a small drop of batter sizzles and rises slowly to the surface. Maintain a steady temperature between 325–350°F (160–175°C) while frying.

Fry banana fritters

Carefully and slowly slide coated banana pieces into the hot oil in a single layer without overcrowding (work in batches). Fry for about 1.5–2.5 minutes per side, turning once, until golden brown and crisp. Adjust time depending on size and oil temperature. Use a slotted spoon to transfer fritters to a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil.

If the fritters are browning too quickly before the interior is warmed, reduce the heat slightly. Conversely, if they absorb too much oil and become greasy, raise the temperature a little (but do not exceed 375°F).

Plate and garnish

While still warm, dust the banana fritters with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar and an optional pinch of ground cinnamon. Serve immediately for best texture.

Suggested serving options: drizzle with honey, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or offer sweetened condensed milk or chocolate sauce for dipping.