Caramelized Banana Empanadas
CaribbeanSnack

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

These Caramelized Banana Empanadas are a beloved Caribbean treat that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary snack. Ripe bananas are slowly caramelized with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until they become a rich, jammy filling. A splash of dark rum adds depth and authenticity to the flavor profile. The filling is then wrapped in tender, flaky pastry dough and fried until golden and crispy. Each bite delivers a perfect contrast between the crunchy exterior and the sweet, aromatic filling. These empanadas are popular at street markets throughout the Caribbean islands and are traditionally enjoyed warm with a dusting of powdered sugar. The recipe balances the natural sweetness of bananas with warming spices that evoke tropical afternoons. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as an afternoon treat with coffee or tea.

Instructions

step by step
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  1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing until dough comes together. Knead briefly, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

  2. Peel and slice bananas into rounds. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir until sugar dissolves.

  3. Add banana slices to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring gently, until bananas are caramelized and soft. Add rum and cook for 2 more minutes until liquid reduces. Remove from heat and let cool completely.

  4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out 5-inch circles using a bowl or round cutter. Re-roll scraps to make 8 circles total.

  5. Place 2 tablespoons of cooled banana filling in the center of each circle. Brush edges with water, fold in half, and press edges firmly with a fork to seal.

  6. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F. Fry empanadas in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.

Caramelized Banana Empanadas

3.7 (31)

Crispy golden empanadas filled with caramelized bananas, warm spices, and a hint of rum. These handheld pastries combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with traditional Caribbean flavors.

medium
45 min
8 servings

Ingredients

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Dough

  • 2 1/2 cups flour, sifted
  • 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 tablespoons shortening

Filling

  • 4 pieces banana, peeled and sliced
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoons cinnamon, ground
  • 1/4 teaspoons nutmeg, ground
  • 1 teaspoons vanilla-extract (optional)

Frying

  • 4 tablespoons vegetable-oil

Chef Tips

expert advice
For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the caramelized banana filling.
If you prefer baking to frying, brush empanadas with beaten egg and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden.
You can substitute the rum with orange juice for an alcohol-free version.
Make sure the banana filling is completely cooled before assembling to prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
For a variation, add finely chopped pecans or shredded coconut to the filling.
These empanadas are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated successfully.
The dough can be made a day ahead and refrigerated until ready to use.