Pin it
Bananas Foster brings the warmth and elegance of a restaurant dessert right into your kitchen with just a handful of ingredients. There is something magical about the aroma of caramelized bananas mingling with buttery brown sugar and the hint of toasted pecans. Served over cool vanilla ice cream, every bite feels like a celebration I still remember my first time flambéing this dish for a group of friends and how it brought everyone to the kitchen just for a glimpse of the show
I first learned to make Bananas Foster on a whim after craving something special and now it is my go-to dish for dinner parties because everyone looks forward to that dramatic sauce and melty ice cream
Ingredients
- Bananas: Medium size, perfectly ripe and just firm enough to hold their shape when heated. Look for no brown spots for best results
- Butter: Unsalted, gives that rich creamy base for the sauce. Choose a high-quality butter for better flavor
- Dark brown sugar: Creates a deep caramel note. Make sure it is fresh and soft so it melts smoothly
- Cinnamon: Adds cozy warmth. A little goes a long way so use a fresh jar for more aroma
- Dark rum: The signature ingredient, can be omitted for a nonalcoholic version but a good robust rum brings out the classic depth
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors. Real vanilla makes a difference, opt for pure extract
- Pecans: Optional, but they add a gentle crunch. Toast them lightly before use for extra nuttiness
- Vanilla ice cream: Creamy and cold, this finishes the dessert with the perfect contrast to the warm sauce. Use a true vanilla bean ice cream for extra luxury
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Peel and Prepare the Bananas:
- Slice your bananas lengthwise into thick long strips or cut in half lengthwise. Take care to make even pieces so they cook uniformly
- Make the Caramel Sauce:
- Place butter in a large deep skillet and let it melt over medium heat. Add the dark brown sugar and cinnamon. Whisk constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture bubbles and thickens. This step is the key to a glossy rich sauce so do not rush
- Cook the Bananas:
- Gently lay the banana pieces in a single layer in your caramel. Try not to crowd the pan. Use a spatula to turn them very carefully so they do not break. Continue to cook until the bananas just begin to soften and soak up the sauce. Their edges should look golden but not mushy
- Add the Rum and Flambé:
- Pour the dark rum gently over the bananas. Swirl the pan so everything is coated. If you want the flambé effect tilt the pan just slightly away from you and use the flame from your stove or a long lighter to ignite. Let the alcohol burn off as you gently shuffle the skillet. The fire will subside on its own leaving behind an aromatic depth
- Finish with Vanilla and Pecans:
- Once the sauce is thick and glossy remove the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and scatter in the chopped pecans if using. Give the sauce one final stir making sure the nuts are coated
- Serve Warm with Ice Cream:
- Quickly spoon the saucy bananas into bowls while still warm. Top each with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. Make sure to drizzle that extra sauce over the top so every spoonful gets a taste of everything
Pin it
My favorite part is always the moment the rum hits the hot pan and the kitchen fills with a deep caramel scent. It is a dessert that brings people together and reminds me of birthdays at home when my dad would proudly light the flames for extra fun
Storage Tips
Bananas Foster is best eaten as soon as it is made since the bananas will keep softening over time. If you need to store leftovers transfer them immediately to a shallow airtight container and refrigerate for up to one day. Reheat gently in a skillet on low with a splash of water or a dot of butter to revive the sauce but do not microwave as the fruit can go mushy quickly
Ingredient Substitutions
If dark rum is not available try a splash of bourbon or omit entirely and use a good squeeze of orange juice for brightness. Maple syrup can replace part of the brown sugar for a unique twist. If you are allergic to nuts, skip the pecans or swap in toasted coconut for extra texture
Serving Suggestions
This classic is perfect over vanilla ice cream but it is just as delightful spooned over pancakes, waffles, or even French toast. For a party I sometimes serve it as a topping for bread pudding or paired with pound cake. If you want a special garnish, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a few shards of dark chocolate really takes it over the top
Pin it
Bananas Foster is the perfect dessert to wow your guests while keeping things simple and indulgent. The combination of warm caramel and cool ice cream is unforgettable
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of bananas work best?
Use ripe, but not overly soft, bananas for best results. They should hold their shape during cooking.
- → Do I have to flambé the sauce?
Flambéing is optional but adds depth and flair. You can simply simmer the rum until the alcohol cooks off.
- → Can I use light rum instead of dark?
Dark rum brings richer flavor, but light rum is a suitable substitute if preferred.
- → Are pecans essential?
Pecans offer a light crunch, but you can omit them or use walnuts for a similar texture.
- → What ice cream flavors pair well?
Classic vanilla enhances the warm caramel sauce, but cinnamon or butter pecan work beautifully too.