Bananas Foster is a show-stopping dessert originating in New Orleans, known for its rich caramel sauce, flambé spectacle, and irresistible flavor. Created in the 1950s at Brennan’s Restaurant, this classic treat combines bananas, brown sugar, butter, and rum for a decadent experience. Whether served over vanilla ice cream or as a topping for pancakes or waffles, Bananas Foster is a dessert that delights every time.
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup dark rum
- 1/4 cup banana liqueur (optional)
the Bananas:
- 2 ripe bananas, peeled and sliced lengthwise or into coins
Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Optional garnish: chopped pecans or walnuts
Preparation
1. Prepare the Sauce
- In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the brown sugar and stir until the mixture becomes smooth and begins to bubble, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the ground cinnamon for added warmth and flavor.
2. Add the Bananas
- Carefully place the banana slices into the bubbling sauce, spooning the sauce over them to coat.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes until the bananas begin to soften but hold their shape.
3. Flambé the Sauce
- Remove the skillet from direct heat and pour in the rum (and banana liqueur, if using).
- Carefully ignite the alcohol with a long lighter or match. Let the flames burn off naturally, which takes about 30 seconds. Be cautious during this step!
- Once the flames subside, return the skillet to the heat and gently stir to incorporate the flavors.
4. Serve Immediately
- Spoon the warm bananas and sauce over scoops of vanilla ice cream.
- Garnish with chopped pecans or walnuts if desired.
Variation Ideas
- No Alcohol: Replace the rum and liqueur with a splash of vanilla extract and a few tablespoons of water for a non-alcoholic version.
- Bananas Foster Pancakes: Use the sauce and bananas as a topping for pancakes or waffles.
- Add Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the dessert for an extra indulgence.
- Tropical Twist: Add a splash of coconut rum and garnish with toasted coconut flakes.
Cooking Notes
- Use bananas that are ripe but not overly soft to maintain their shape during cooking.
- For an extra luxurious sauce, add a splash of heavy cream just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Bananas Foster is traditionally served over vanilla ice cream, but it also pairs beautifully with pound cake, crepes, or even oatmeal for a luxurious breakfast treat.
Tips
- Safety First: Always flambé away from flammable materials, and use a long lighter or match to avoid burns.
- Pre-Scoop the Ice Cream: Prepare the ice cream scoops in advance and keep them in the freezer for quick serving.
- Keep It Warm: If making for a group, keep the sauce warm over low heat and flambé just before serving.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Sodium: 100mg
FAQs
Can I make Bananas Foster ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare Bananas Foster just before serving for the freshest flavor and presentation. You can, however, make the sauce without the bananas ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.
Can I flambé without alcohol?
The flambé effect requires alcohol, but you can still create a delicious dessert by skipping the rum and liqueur and simply reducing the sauce on the stovetop.
What’s the best type of rum to use?
Dark or spiced rum works best for a deep, rich flavor. Avoid light rum, which has a milder taste.
Conclusion
Bananas Foster is the epitome of indulgence, offering a rich combination of buttery caramel and tender bananas. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a little luxury, this recipe is both simple to make and stunning to serve. Try it today and bring a taste of New Orleans right to your kitchen!