Caramelized Air Fryer Bananas
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My air fryer bananas are sweet, gooey, and perfectly caramelized with just a handful of ingredients. They’re an easy dessert that’s ready in under 10 minutes.
Air fryer bananas that taste like a decadent dessert
The first time I made these air fryer bananas for my partner, he thought it was some fancy dessert. Little did he know that all I did was sprinkle some sugar, butter, and flavor boosters over the bananas and air fry them until caramelized.
I love making them this way because they caramelize in just a few minutes, and thanks to air fryer liners, cleanup is practically nonexistent. I usually enjoy them on their own, but my partner never says no to a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Let’s whip some up together!
Key Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need, along with my kitchen notes. Full measurements are in the recipe card below.
- Bananas. I actually prefer slightly firm bananas here because they hold their shape and caramelize beautifully in the air fryer.
- Brown sugar. Adds sweetness and helps the bananas develop a rich, caramelized coating. Light or dark brown sugar both work.
- Butter. Melted butter helps the sugar stick to the bananas and adds richness. I used unsalted, but if you use salted, just omit the added salt.
- Honey. I originally made this without honey, but found that adding it gave a glossy finish that brown sugar alone wouldn’t provide. Maple syrup also works well here.
- Cinnamon and salt. Cinnamon adds warmth, and the salt elevates the sweet flavors.
How to make air fryer bananas
First, whisk together all the ingredients until a thick paste forms.
Second, place the banana halves in the air fryer basket, cut side up. Brush the brown sugar paste over each half of a banana.
Finally, air fry the bananas for 6 minutes or until golden and caramelized. Remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately with ice cream, whipped cream, or yogurt.
More air fryer fruit recipes
Caramelized Air Fryer Bananas
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 large bananas firm
- 1 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter melted
- 1/2 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. Line the basket with parchment paper or use an air fryer liner.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, melted butter, honey, cinnamon, and salt until you have a thick, glossy paste.
- Place the banana halves in the air fryer basket, sliced side up. Spread the brown sugar paste over each one, ensuring as much of the surface is covered.
- Air fry for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the edges are golden. Check at the 6 minute mark.
- Remove the caramelized bananas from the air fryer basket and serve with ice cream, frozen yogurt, custard, or whipped cream.
