Banana Fritters

I found this in the new "Taste of Home" cookbook. It was originally submitted by Heidi Duquette or Morrisonville, NY, who says: "Try this for a fun twist on a banana split. My family especially enjoys it on a warm summer night."

• Ready In: 15 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1  cup self-rising flour
• 1  egg
• 3⁄4 cup  carbonated lemon-lime beverage
•  oil, for deep-fat frying
• 4  large firm bananas, cut into quarters
• 1 (12 1/4ounce) jar  caramel ice cream topping
•  vanilla ice cream (optional)
•  whipped cream (optional)
•  chopped pecans (optional)

Directions

1. Place flour in a small bowl.
2. Combine egg and soda; stir into flour just until moistened.
3. In an electric skillet, heat 1/4 inch of oil to 375.
4. Coat banana pieces with batter.
5. Fry bananas, a few at a time, for 1 minute on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
6. Drizzle with caramel topping.
7. Serve with ice cream, whipped cream and pecans, if desired.