Crispy Turon Banana Spring Rolls Recipe Easy Homemade with Caramelized Sugar

Let me tell you, the scent of ripe saba bananas sizzling in hot oil, wrapped in delicate spring roll wrappers, and kissed by golden caramelized sugar is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. The first time I made Crispy Turon Banana Spring Rolls, I was instantly hooked. There was this kind of moment where I paused, took a deep breath, and just smiled because I knew I was onto something truly special. You know, it’s the kind of treat that feels like a warm hug on a rainy afternoon or a burst of sunshine on a gloomy day.

When I was knee-high to a grasshopper, my grandma used to make turon for neighborhood birthdays and fiesta celebrations. Years ago, I stumbled upon this recipe while trying to recreate that nostalgic sweetness on a rainy weekend. Honestly, I wish I’d discovered this dangerously easy recipe years ago because my family couldn’t stop sneaking them off the cooling rack (and I can’t really blame them). It’s pure, nostalgic comfort wrapped in crispy goodness – perfect for potlucks, afternoon snacks, or a sweet treat for your kids after school.

After testing this Crispy Turon Banana Spring Rolls recipe multiple times (in the name of research, of course), it’s become a staple for family gatherings and gifting. Trust me, you’re going to want to bookmark this one. The caramelized sugar glaze adds that irresistible shine and crunch that makes this dessert stand out from the rest.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Turon Banana Spring Rolls Recipe

Honestly, this isn’t just any banana spring roll recipe. Having cooked and tasted my way through various versions, I can say this one strikes the perfect balance of crispy shell and sweet filling every single time. Here’s why you’re going to love it:

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 30 minutes — perfect for last-minute cravings or when you want a fast homemade dessert.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery trips; you probably have saba bananas and spring roll wrappers in your kitchen already.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual snack, a party appetizer, or a festive treat, turon fits right in.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike rave about the crispy texture combined with that luscious caramelized sugar finish.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The natural sweetness of saba bananas marries beautifully with brown sugar and a hint of jackfruit (if you choose to add it), creating a next-level comfort food.

What sets this recipe apart is the little trick I learned from my grandma—sprinkling the turon with caramelized sugar right after frying, which creates a glossy, crackly coating that adds an addictive crunch. Plus, using ripe saba bananas ensures the texture inside is soft but not mushy, making every bite pure joy.

This recipe isn’t just good — it’s the kind that makes you close your eyes after the first bite and smile. It’s comfort food that’s healthier and faster than store-bought sweets but with the same soul-soothing satisfaction. Impress your guests without stress or simply treat yourself to a nostalgic snack that feels like a warm hug.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This Crispy Turon Banana Spring Rolls recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Many of these are pantry staples or easily found in Asian markets.

• Saba Bananas (ripe but firm) – the star ingredient; provides natural sweetness and creamy texture.
• Spring Roll Wrappers (fresh or frozen) – thin, delicate, and crisp when fried. I recommend the brand “Jufran” for consistent texture.
• Brown Sugar – for caramelizing and sweetening; use dark brown sugar for richer flavor.
• Jackfruit (optional) – thin strips add a fruity contrast and traditional flair.
• Cooking Oil (vegetable or canola) – for deep frying; choose a neutral oil with high smoke point.
• Water – to seal the spring rolls edges.

Ingredient Tips: Look for firm, yellow saba bananas with a few brown spots—too ripe bananas may become mushy when fried. If you can’t find saba bananas, plantains are a decent substitute, but the flavor differs slightly. For a gluten-free option, rice paper wrappers can be tried, though they won’t be quite as crispy.

Equipment Needed

• Deep Fryer or Large Deep Pan: For frying the turon. A deep pan works well if you don’t have a dedicated fryer.
• Slotted Spoon or Spider Strainer: To safely remove turon from hot oil without excess oil dripping.
• Mixing Bowl: For combining ingredients.
• Brush or Small Bowl of Water: Used to seal spring roll edges.
• Cooling Rack or Paper Towels: For draining excess oil after frying.

Personally, I prefer using a cast iron skillet for even heat distribution, but a heavy-bottomed stainless steel pan works just fine. Make sure your tools are dry and clean to avoid oil splatters. If you’re on a budget, a deep saucepan will do the trick as well.

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the Bananas: Peel the saba bananas and slice them lengthwise into halves or thirds, depending on their size (about 4–5 inches long). If using jackfruit, cut into thin strips. (Time: 5 minutes)
2. Fill the Wrapper: Lay a spring roll wrapper on a clean surface in a diamond shape. Place 1-2 pieces of banana and a strip or two of jackfruit near the bottom corner, leaving a small margin on each side.
3. Roll and Seal: Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides snugly. Roll upward tightly but gently to avoid tearing. Seal the top edge with a dab of water (use your finger or a brush). (Tip: Don’t overstuff to avoid bursting during frying.) (Time: 5 minutes)
4. Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into your pan or deep fryer to at least 2 inches deep. Heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer if possible for accuracy.
5. Fry the Turon: Carefully place 3-4 rolls into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain and Caramelize: Use a slotted spoon to transfer turon to a wire rack or paper towels. While still hot, sprinkle a generous amount of brown sugar on each roll so it caramelizes and forms a shiny, crackly coating. (Pro tip: This step is what makes these turon irresistibly crunchy and sweet.)
7. Cool Slightly and Serve: Let cool for a couple of minutes so the sugar hardens but the inside remains warm and soft. Serve immediately for best texture. (Time: 10 minutes)

Troubleshooting: If your roll wrappers tear, try working with slightly drier hands or thaw frozen wrappers fully before use. If the caramelized sugar isn’t sticking, sprinkle it while the turon is still very hot, and don’t shake off excess sugar.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Frying turon might seem straightforward, but a few tricks make all the difference. First off, temperature control is crucial. If your oil is too hot, the wrapper burns before the banana warms through; too cool, and the turon absorbs oil and becomes greasy. I keep a candy thermometer handy to maintain a steady 350°F (175°C).

Another tip is sealing the edges well. I’ve had batches unravel mid-fry due to loose edges—using a bit of water as glue and gently pressing the seams helps everything stay intact. Don’t overfill, or the wrapper will tear.

When it comes to caramelizing sugar, patience is key. Sprinkle the brown sugar immediately after frying while the rolls are hot—this melts the sugar slightly, creating that signature crackly shell. Some folks toss sugar in the oil, but that risks burning. I prefer post-fry sprinkled caramelization for even coating and cleaner flavor.

Lastly, multitasking helps. While the first batch fries, prep your next batch so you’re not scrambling. It’s honestly a fun rhythm once you get going.

Variations & Adaptations

• Flavor Twists: Add a small strip of cream cheese inside the roll for a melty surprise or sprinkle cinnamon with the sugar for warm spice notes.
• Dietary Options: For gluten-free turon, try rice paper wrappers, though they crisp differently. Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a lower glycemic index.
• Seasonal Variations: Swap saba bananas with ripe plantains or even ripe mango slices (though turon with mango is less traditional but delicious!). You can also add a few chopped nuts for crunch.
• Baking Alternative: If deep frying isn’t your thing, lightly brush the rolls with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden and crisp. The caramelized sugar step works best after baking too.
• Personal Favorite: I once tried mixing mashed ube (purple yam) with the banana filling for a colorful twist that wowed my family. It’s worth experimenting!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your Crispy Turon Banana Spring Rolls warm or at room temperature with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy snack. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Presentation-wise, stack them on a platter and garnish with a light dusting of powdered sugar or toasted sesame seeds for a pretty touch.

Store leftover turon in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day—though honestly, they’re best fresh. For longer storage, refrigerate for 2-3 days and reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer to regain crispness. Avoid microwaving as it makes the wrapper soggy.

If you want to freeze turon, freeze un-fried rolls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When ready, fry from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cook time. This makes for an easy make-ahead treat!

Over time, the flavors mellow and the sugar coating softens slightly, which some folks actually prefer for a chewier texture. Feel free to experiment with how you like them best.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each serving of Crispy Turon Banana Spring Rolls (about 2 rolls) contains approximately 250 calories, mostly from carbohydrates and fats. Saba bananas provide potassium, fiber, and vitamin C, making this dessert a bit more wholesome than your average fried sweet.

Brown sugar adds sweetness but also trace minerals compared to white sugar. Using moderate amounts of oil and frying quickly reduces fat absorption, so you get a crispy treat without heaviness.

This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use rice paper wrappers and dairy-free when served plain. Just watch for allergens if adding cream cheese or nuts in variations.

From a wellness perspective, turon offers a nostalgic comfort food moment with real fruit, letting you indulge without guilt when enjoyed in moderation.

Conclusion

So there you have it — Crispy Turon Banana Spring Rolls with Caramelized Sugar, a sweet, crunchy, and utterly addictive Filipino dessert that’s easy to make at home. Whether you’re looking to surprise your family, impress friends, or just treat yourself to a nostalgic snack, this recipe delivers every time.

Feel free to customize with your favorite fillings or tweak the sugar topping to your liking. Honestly, the best part is how simple ingredients come together to create something so special.

I love this recipe because it connects me back to my childhood and family traditions, all while tasting ridiculously good. Give it a try, and let me know how your turon turns out — I’m always eager to hear about your delicious adaptations!

Don’t forget to share this recipe with your fellow food lovers and drop a comment below with your thoughts or questions. Happy cooking and happy snacking!

FAQs About Crispy Turon Banana Spring Rolls

What kind of bananas are best for making turon?

Ripe but firm saba bananas are ideal because they hold their shape when fried and have a naturally sweet flavor perfect for turon.

Can I make turon without deep frying?

Yes! You can bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, brushing them lightly with oil for crispiness.

How do I prevent the spring roll wrappers from tearing?

Work with dry hands, avoid overfilling, and seal edges with a bit of water to keep everything intact during frying.

Is it okay to add other fillings besides banana and jackfruit?

Absolutely! Cream cheese, ube, or even nuts make delicious additions. Just keep fillings balanced to avoid bursting.

How long can I store leftover turon?

Eat fresh for best texture, but you can refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven to regain crispness.

Print