Bananas Foster is a classic and delicious dessert known for its caramelized bananas and rich, boozy sauce.

The combination of caramelized bananas, buttery sauce, and the subtle notes of cinnamon and rum create a heavenly treat. When served over vanilla ice cream, it becomes a perfect balance of warm and cold, creamy and gooey.

If you enjoy the sweet, slightly boozy, and caramelized taste of bananas, you’re likely to find Bananas Foster delicious. It’s a classic dessert that has stood the test of time and remains a favorite for many. Give it a try and savor the delightful flavors!

  • Preparation Time: 10min
  • Cooking Time: 5min
  • Total Time: 15min
  • Servings: 4

How to make Bananas Foster

Ingredients:

  • 4 ripe bananas, peeled and sliced diagonally
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup banana liqueur
  • 1/2 cup dark rum
  • Vanilla ice cream for serving (optional)
  • Chopped nuts (such as pecans) for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Bananas:
    • Peel the bananas and cut them into slices diagonally. Set aside.
  2. Make the Sauce:
    • In a large skillet or flambé pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and ground cinnamon, stirring until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
  3. Add Bananas:
    • Add the banana slices to the pan, arranging them in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes, gently flipping the bananas once, until they start to soften.
  4. Flambé the Bananas:
    • Carefully add the banana liqueur to the pan. Tilt the pan slightly to ignite the liqueur (use caution and keep your face away from the flames). Allow the flames to subside.
  5. Add Rum:
    • Once the flames have subsided, add the dark rum to the pan. Again, tilt the pan to ignite the rum and let it flame. The flames will eventually go out.
  6. Finish Cooking:
    • Allow the sauce to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly and the bananas are well-coated in the caramel sauce. Gently stir the bananas to coat them evenly.
  7. Serve:
    • Spoon the Bananas Foster over vanilla ice cream if desired. The contrast of the warm bananas and sauce with the cold ice cream is delightful.
  8. Garnish:
    • Optional: Garnish with chopped nuts, such as pecans, for added texture and flavor.
  9. Enjoy:
    • Serve immediately and enjoy this decadent and flavorful Bananas Foster!