Bananas Foster is a classic New Orleans dessert that combines caramelized bananas, warm spices, and nuts, all served over creamy vanilla ice cream. this simplified version skips the alcohol but still delivers the same rich, indulgent flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy dessert ready in under 10 minutes
- Uses simple ingredients you probably already have
- Warm, spiced bananas pair perfectly with cold vanilla ice cream
- A restaurant-style dessert you can make at home
- Great for entertaining or an impressive weeknight treat
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1/4 cup butter
2/3 cup dark brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3 bananas, peeled and sliced lengthwise and crosswise
1/4 cup coarsely chopped walnuts
1 pint vanilla ice cream
Directions
- Melt butter in a large, deep skillet over medium heat.
- Stir in dark brown sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon; bring to a gentle boil.
- Add bananas and walnuts. Cook for 1–2 minutes until bananas soften slightly and are coated in sauce.
- Spoon hot bananas and sauce over bowls of vanilla ice cream.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4.
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 5 minutes
- Total time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Substitute pecans for walnuts for a Southern twist.
- Sprinkle with a pinch of nutmeg for added spice.
- Use caramel or butter pecan ice cream instead of vanilla for extra richness.
- Drizzle with chocolate sauce for a decadent touch.
Storage/Reheating
- Best served fresh and warm.
- Store any leftover sauce and bananas in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet before serving over fresh ice cream.
- Do not freeze once assembled.
FAQs
What kind of bananas work best?
Use ripe but firm bananas so they don’t turn mushy while cooking.
Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?
Brown sugar adds a caramel-like richness, but white sugar can work in a pinch.
Do I need to flambé the dessert?
No, flambéing is optional. This recipe achieves delicious results without it.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best made just before serving so the bananas stay tender and the sauce warm.
What can I use instead of walnuts?
Pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts are great alternatives.
Can I use frozen bananas?
No, frozen bananas will become too mushy when cooked.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free ice cream.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger skillet and adjust cooking time slightly.
Can I serve Bananas Foster without ice cream?
Yes, it’s also delicious over pancakes, waffles, French toast, or pound cake.
Conclusion
Bananas Foster is a quick, elegant dessert that blends warm caramelized bananas with cool vanilla ice cream. Whether served at a dinner party or as a cozy treat at home, this sweet and spiced dish is sure to impress. With just a few ingredients, you can bring a taste of New Orleans right to your table.
Print
Bananas Foster
- Total Time: 10 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Bananas Foster is a quick and elegant New Orleans-inspired dessert made with caramelized bananas, warm cinnamon-spiced sauce, and crunchy walnuts, served over creamy vanilla ice cream. This easy version captures all the indulgent flavors of the classic flambéed treat. An SEO-optimized recipe featuring keywords like ‘Bananas Foster’, ‘caramelized banana dessert’, and ‘easy New Orleans dessert’.
Ingredients
1/4 cup butter
2/3 cup dark brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3 bananas, peeled and sliced lengthwise and crosswise
1/4 cup coarsely chopped walnuts
1 pint vanilla ice cream
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large, deep skillet over medium heat.
- Stir in dark brown sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon; bring to a gentle boil.
- Add bananas and walnuts. Cook for 1–2 minutes until bananas soften slightly and are coated in sauce.
- Spoon hot bananas and sauce over bowls of vanilla ice cream.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushiness.
- Pecans can be substituted for walnuts for a Southern variation.
- Best served fresh and warm—do not freeze after assembly.
- Delicious served over pancakes, waffles, or pound cake as an alternative to ice cream.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 5 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
