Bananas Foster Recipe

This Bananas Foster Recipe is pure dessert drama—sweet caramelized bananas, a showstopping flambé, and silky vanilla ice cream, all in one irresistible bowl. It’s a classic New Orleans treat that’s so easy (and fun!) you’ll want to make it for every special occasion—or just because!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Bananas Foster Recipe is all about simple ingredients coming together for big, bold flavor. Each one plays a starring role—don’t skip a thing if you want that authentic sweet, saucy, and slightly boozy flavor!

• 2 underripe bananas: Look for bananas with a hint of green—this keeps them firm enough so they won’t turn mushy when caramelized.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Melted butter is the rich, luscious base of your caramel sauce.
• 1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar: Brown sugar gives the sauce a gorgeous molasses depth and that signature glossy texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Just enough spice to warm up all that sweetness—don’t skip this!
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: A tiny touch, but it makes every bite sing and keeps the dessert from tasting flat.
• 2 tablespoons banana liqueur (or 1 tsp vanilla + 1 tbsp dark rum): Adds a boozy punch and enhances the banana flavor—sub in the vanilla/rum combo if you don’t have banana liqueur.
• 3 tablespoons dark rum (90 to 100 proof): For the traditional flambé; it brings drama and deep caramel notes.
• 2 to 4 scoops vanilla ice cream: Cold and creamy, this is the perfect contrast to the warm bananas and sauce.
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional): These add a lovely crunch that takes the dish to next-level dessert bliss.

Variations

This Bananas Foster Recipe is a classic for a reason, but it’s also endlessly adaptable. Have a little fun—swap, tweak, and remix based on what you love or what you have in your pantry!

• Alcohol-free twist: Simply substitute a splash of orange juice for both the rum and liqueur for a family-friendly, flavorful sauce.
• Nutty alternatives: Try walnuts, hazelnuts, or toasted coconut flakes for a fun crunch if you don’t have pecans handy.
• Ice cream adventure: Swap vanilla for cinnamon swirl, butter pecan, or even a scoop of coconut ice cream for a fresh spin.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne for an unexpected kick.

How to Make Bananas Foster Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Bananas

Peel your bananas, then slice each in half crosswise before splitting those pieces lengthwise, creating eight beautiful banana spears. Firm, just-under-ripe fruit is key here—they’ll soften perfectly in the sauce without falling apart.

Step 2: Caramelize the Sauce

Add butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt to a skillet over low heat. Stir often—the mixture will look a little grainy at first, but within 3 to 4 minutes, it’ll melt together into that dreamy, golden caramel sauce you crave.

Step 3: Add Bananas and Liqueur

Gently place your sliced bananas into the bubbling sauce, then pour in the banana liqueur (or your vanilla-rum swap). Let everything simmer for about a minute, just until the bananas barely soften around the edges—go easy to keep those pieces luscious, not mushy!

Step 4: Flambé for the Show

This step gives Bananas Foster Recipe its signature flair! Pour measured dark rum over the bananas (never directly from the bottle). Using a long lighter, carefully ignite the rum to create a flambé—swirl the skillet gently to blend the sauce. The flames will subside after a few seconds (use a lid if needed)—and voilà, dessert theater at its best! Turn off the heat.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon those caramel-drenched bananas and sauce over bowls of vanilla ice cream. Sprinkle with pecans if you like (oh, you should!), and serve immediately while it’s gloriously warm and melty.

How to Serve Bananas Foster Recipe

Garnishes

Top each bowl with a fistful of crunchy pecans or walnuts, a dusting of extra cinnamon, or even a drizzle of dark chocolate—anything that adds contrast and a little extra pizzazz. If you’re feeling especially decadent, a dollop of whipped cream is positively dreamy on top!

Side Dishes

For a truly celebratory dessert course, pair your Bananas Foster Recipe with crisp butter cookies or a thin slice of pound cake. It’s also fantastic alongside fresh fruit salad or as a grand finale after a Cajun-inspired meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive twist, try layering Bananas Foster (cooled slightly) with ice cream in parfait glasses, or serve it over pancakes or French toast for a brunch to remember. Individual cast iron skillets make for a delightful, rustic presentation—let everyone dig in tableside!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Bananas Foster is truly at its best enjoyed fresh, but you can refrigerate any leftover bananas and sauce in an airtight container for up to two days. The bananas will soften more as they sit, turning almost pudding-like—which some people absolutely adore!

Freezing

While you can technically freeze both the bananas and sauce, the texture won’t be quite the same after thawing. If you do freeze, store in a sealed container and thaw overnight in the fridge—expect a softer, saucier result (delicious spooned over cake or ice cream still!).

Reheating

To gently reheat, warm the bananas and sauce in a saucepan over very low heat, stirring often, just until warmed through. Avoid high heat so the bananas don’t fall apart or turn to mush. Always serve over fresh, cold ice cream for best contrast!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried making this Bananas Foster Recipe at home, you’re in for an unforgettable treat—no special occasion required! I promise, that warm caramel sauce, dramatic flambé, and creamy ice cream truly make magic in a bowl. Grab your skillet and enjoy every delicious, showstopping bite!

Print