Cut the bananas into small pieces. You can also mash the bananas using a masher or fork. Set aside.

In a mixing bowl, add-in the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar then mix together.

In a separate mixing bowl, add-in the egg, vanilla extract, butter, and milk then mix together.

Combine the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix together to form the batter.

Add-in the bananas into the mixture and make sure they are fully coated. (If you opt to use sliced bananas, dip them into the batter instead before frying.)

In a frying pan, add enough cooking oil and apply medium heat (see notes above for frying tips).

When the oil is hot enough, scoop about ¼ cup of the banana mixture and cook 1 side until golden brown.

Flip using tongs to cook the other side. This will take about 1 to 2 minutes each side. Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Transfer cooked maruya into a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Lastly, dust or coat the maruya with sugar or any topping of your choice (see notes above for examples). Enjoy!