Introduction

Bananas Foster is a classic, indulgent dessert featuring tender bananas cooked in a rich, buttery sauce with warm spices and a hint of rum. Served warm over vanilla ice cream, it’s a simple yet elegant treat perfect for any occasion.

The dish is served on a white curved plate with a layer of caramelized banana slices coated in a shiny brown sauce at the base. On top of the bananas are two scoops of creamy vanilla ice cream, slightly melting and mixing with the sauce below. Scattered over the ice cream and bananas are broken pieces of orange-brown cookies adding a rough texture contrast. A rose gold fork rests on the left edge of the plate and a matching spoon lies on the right side, both positioned on a white marbled surface with hints of a burnt orange cloth and green herb leaves nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 ripe bananas, sliced lengthwise
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup organic brown sugar (light or dark can be used)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Pinch of ground allspice
2 teaspoons rum extract (or 2-3 tablespoons dark rum as a substitute)
Vanilla ice cream
Nilla wafer cookies, roughly crushed (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet over low heat, melt the butter and whisk in the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and allspice. Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 2: Add the sliced bananas and rum extract, gently folding them into the sauce. Cook until the bananas are tender, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: If using actual rum, remove the skillet from heat before adding it, then carefully ignite the rum with a long lighter to flambé. Allow the flames to subside after a few minutes.
Step 4: To serve, spoon the warm bananas foster over bowls of vanilla ice cream. Garnish with crushed Nilla wafer cookies if desired.
Step 5: Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

Use ripe bananas for the best sweetness and texture—avoid overly mushy ones.
For a boozy kick, opt for dark rum and flambé carefully to enhance depth of flavor.
Try adding a splash of orange juice or zest for a citrus twist.
Substitute Nilla wafers with chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.

Storage

Bananas Foster is best enjoyed fresh and warm. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the bananas before serving. Ice cream should be served fresh.

How to Serve

Two white plates each hold a dessert with three layers: the bottom layer is golden caramelized banana slices, the middle layer is white melting ice cream, and the top layer is broken pieces of golden brown cookies scattered around. A light brown sauce is drizzled over the plate, mixing with the ice cream around the edges. The plates sit on a white marbled surface, with green herbs beside them, copper fork and spoon, and an orange cloth napkin nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Bananas Foster without alcohol?

Yes, you can use rum extract instead of actual rum for the flavor without the alcohol. This is perfect for children or those avoiding alcohol.

What can I use instead of Nilla wafers?

If you don’t have Nilla wafers, crushed graham crackers, chopped nuts, or even biscotti can add a nice texture and complement the dessert well.