Go Back
Bananas Foster

Bananas Foster - Easy Family Meal

Before diving into the mouth-watering details of the Bananas Foster recipe, let’s talk about what you can enjoy alongside this dessert. Bananas Foster is best served warm, so pairing it with something cold is a delightful contrast. Think about scoops of creamy vanilla bean ice cream melting into the warm, caramelized bananas. If you want to get a little adventurous, try some spiced ginger ice cream.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup packed golden brown sugar 4 ounces; 113 g
  • 3 medium ripe yet firm bananas about 1 pound; 450 g
  • 1/4 cup spiced or dark rum, or aged white rum 60 ml
  • 1 tablespoon orange juice or Grand Marnier
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, gently melted 85 g
  • 1/2 teaspoon warm ground cinnamon
  • A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
  • A generous pinch of kosher salt or sea salt flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Ice cream of your choice for serving

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Bananas
  1. Peel the bananas and cut them in half lengthwise. Then, slice each half into two or three pieces. This not only helps them cook evenly but makes for an elegant presentation.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the melted butter. Stir it all together until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
Step 3: Add Bananas
  1. Add the banana pieces to the skillet. Gently toss them in the sauce, making sure they are coated well. Let them cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side, until they begin to soften and brown beautifully.
Step 4: Add the Rum
  1. Carefully add the spiced rum and orange juice (or Grand Marnier) to the pan. It's time to jazz things up a bit!
Step 5: Flambé
  1. This is where the magic happens. Use a long lighter or match to ignite the rum in the pan. Stand back to enjoy the impressive flames. Let the flames burn off the alcohol for about 30 seconds.
Step 6: Serve
  1. Remove the pan from heat. Serve hot over scoops of ice cream. You can spoon some of that delicious sauce over the top. Don't be shy; it's meant to be indulgent!

Notes

  • Use uniform banana sizes. This promotes even cooking and ensures that every piece is perfectly caramelized.
  • Be cautious with flames. Safety is crucial. If you're unsure, you can skip flambéing and simply simmer until the alcohol cooks off.
  • Don’t hurry. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly before serving. This will enhance the flavor.
  • Experiment with flavors. Feel free to add a splash of your favorite liqueur, like banana liqueur, for extra nuttiness.
  • Pair it right! Remember, a spicy ginger ice cream adds an unexpected twist that plays well with the dish's flavors.