Turon (Banana Lumpia) With Caramel | Crispy Filipino Dessert Recipe

Turon, also known as banana lumpia, is a popular Filipino street food that combines sweet ripe bananas with crispy golden wrappers. It’s a snack that captures the tropical flavors of the Philippines in every bite. While classic turon is delicious on its own, adding a homemade caramel sauce takes this humble snack to the next level. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy to make yet impressive enough for guests, this version is worth trying.

What Is Turon?

Turon is a Filipino snack made by wrapping sliced saba bananas (or plantains) and sometimes jackfruit in spring roll wrappers, then frying them until crispy. The bananas become soft and sweet inside while the wrapper turns flaky and golden brown. Street vendors often sell turon warm, fresh out of the oil, with sugar caramelized on the outside for extra crunch.

Ingredients For Turon

Making turon at home is simple and doesn’t need fancy tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 6 ripe saba bananas or ripe plantains
• 12 spring roll wrappers
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup sliced jackfruit (optional)
• Oil for frying

For the caramel sauce:

• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Pinch of salt

If you can’t find saba bananas, use plantains or ripe regular bananas that aren’t too mushy.

How To Wrap Turon

The wrapping process is similar to making lumpia or egg rolls. Here’s how:

1. Peel the bananas and slice each lengthwise into two or three pieces.
2. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a clean surface with a corner facing you.
3. Roll the banana slice in brown sugar until coated.
4. Place the sugared banana and a strip of jackfruit (if using) near the bottom corner.
5. Fold the corner over the filling, fold in the sides, and roll tightly.
6. Seal the edge with a dab of water.

Repeat until all bananas are wrapped.

How To Fry Turon

Once wrapped, frying is quick and easy. Follow these steps for a perfect crunch:

1. Heat about two inches of oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
2. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F), gently place a few turon rolls in the oil.
3. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.

While frying, you can sprinkle a bit more brown sugar into the oil. This melts and sticks to the wrappers, creating a crackly, sweet coating.

How To Make The Caramel Sauce

A simple caramel drizzle makes turon extra special. Here’s how to make it:

1. In a small saucepan, melt the sugar over medium heat, stirring gently until it turns amber.
2. Add the butter and stir until melted.
3. Slowly pour in the cream while stirring. Be careful, as it may bubble up.
4. Add a pinch of salt and stir until smooth.
5. Let it cool slightly before drizzling.

If you prefer thicker caramel, cook it a minute longer. For a runnier sauce, add a splash more cream.

Tips For The Best Turon

• Use ripe but firm bananas or plantains. Overripe ones can turn mushy when fried.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches so the oil temperature stays steady.
• Drain well on a rack to keep the wrappers crispy.
• Serve turon fresh. They’re best when warm and crunchy.

Flavor Variations

Turon is flexible. Here are ideas to switch things up:

• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar inside the wrapper.
• Try Nutella or peanut butter spread inside for a richer filling.
• Use mango or sweet coconut strips instead of jackfruit.
• Roll finished turon in sesame seeds for a nutty twist.

These simple changes make this Filipino favorite feel new every time.

Serving Ideas

Turon can stand alone as a snack or dessert. For special occasions, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The hot and cold combo works perfectly with the warm caramel drizzle. You can also dust the rolls with powdered sugar or garnish with toasted coconut flakes.

How To Store Leftovers

Turon tastes best freshly fried, but you can store leftovers too. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to bring back the crisp texture. Microwaving works but will make them soft.

Why Try Turon With Caramel?

Adding caramel to turon balances the sweetness of the banana and the crisp wrapper with a rich, buttery sauce. It feels like a restaurant-style dessert without needing special ingredients. This makes turon with caramel a standout at potlucks, family dinners, or casual get-togethers.

Make Turon Your Way

Turon is all about comfort and fun. It uses everyday ingredients but delivers bold tropical flavors. With a quick caramel sauce, you turn a street snack into a dessert that’s ready for any occasion.

Next time you crave something crispy, sweet, and homemade, grab some ripe bananas and wrappers. Fry up a batch of turon, drizzle with caramel, and enjoy a taste of the Philippines right in your kitchen.