Bananas Foster

This bananas foster recipe features caramelized bananas cooked in a rich butter and brown sugar sauce, finished with warm spices and served over vanilla ice cream. Ready in minutes, it’s a classic dessert known for its smooth texture and bold flavor. Perfect for dinner parties or quick desserts, this recipe uses simple ingredients to create a restaurant-style bananas foster at home, with easy preparation and consistent results every time.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup dark brown sugar, packed
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large ripe bananas
• ¼ cup dark rum (optional)
• 3 cups vanilla ice cream, for serving
• Chopped walnuts, optional

Instructions

1. Prepare all ingredients in advance and keep them close to the stove.
2. Peel the bananas. Slice each one lengthwise, then cut in half crosswise.
3. Caramel Sauce: In a wide skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar and cinnamon, stirring constantly until the mixture bubbles and thickens into a smooth caramel, about 2–3 minutes. Stir in the vanilla.
4. Gently add the banana slices and cook for 1–2 minutes, spooning the sauce over them until softened and coated.
5. Optional rum step: Add the rum and let it warm briefly in the sauce. (For a non-flambé version, simply simmer for 30–60 seconds to cook off some alcohol.)
6. Remove from heat.
7. Serve: Place one or two scoops of vanilla ice cream in a bowl. Arrange warm bananas around the ice cream and spoon caramel sauce over the top. Finish with chopped walnuts if desired.

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Tips

• Use ripe but firm bananas so they hold their shape.
• Stir the caramel constantly to prevent scorching.
• Serve immediately for the best contrast between warm sauce and cold ice cream.

Variations and Substitutions

• Replace rum with banana liqueur or apple juice for an alcohol-free version.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
• Swap walnuts for pecans or omit nuts entirely.

FAQs

Can I make Bananas Foster without alcohol?
Yes. Skip the rum and add a splash of water or juice to loosen the sauce.

Why did my sauce turn grainy?
The heat may have been too high. Lower the heat and stir constantly.

Can this be made ahead?
It’s best served fresh, but the sauce can be made shortly ahead and gently reheated.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
• Spoon over pound cake or brioche.
• Pair with caramel or chocolate sauce for a richer dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic flavors with a rich caramel banana sauce
• Quick preparation with simple ingredients
• Perfect balance of warm, buttery sauce and cold vanilla ice cream