If you crave a dessert that’s as exciting as a Mardi Gras celebration, Bananas Foster is the perfect treat. This iconic dish features caramelized bananas cooked in a rich, buttery sauce infused with rum and cinnamon, creating an irresistible blend of warm, sweet, and slightly boozy flavors.
Served over cold vanilla ice cream, Bananas Foster offers the perfect balance of temperatures and tastes — a decadent comfort dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make right in your own kitchen.
What is Bananas Foster?
Originating from New Orleans in 1951 at the famous Vieux Carré Restaurant, Bananas Foster is a beloved Southern dessert. It combines ripe bananas sautéed in a sauce made with brown sugar, butter, and a splash of rum. Often flambéed tableside for a dramatic effect, the sauce is enhanced with vanilla and cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor. Paired traditionally with vanilla ice cream, it’s a dessert that’s both visually stunning and deliciously indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Heritage: Bring a taste of New Orleans culture to your table with this classic recipe.
- Versatility: Bananas Foster is perfect on vanilla ice cream, but also pairs wonderfully with crepes, pancakes, waffles, or even yogurt.
- Quick & Easy: Despite its elegant taste, this dessert comes together quickly with just a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 medium ripe but firm bananas
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup dark rum (or substitute as noted)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional, for crunch)
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving
How to Make Bananas Foster
- Prepare the Bananas: Peel and slice the bananas lengthwise into thick strips or halves.
- Make the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add brown sugar and cinnamon, stirring until the sugar dissolves into a smooth caramel sauce.
- Cook the Bananas: Gently add banana slices in a single layer and cook until they start to soften.
- Add the Rum: Carefully pour in the rum and swirl to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Flambé (Optional): For a dramatic touch, remove the skillet from heat, ignite the rum with a long lighter, and gently swirl until the flames subside.
- Finish & Serve: Stir in vanilla extract and pecans, if using. Serve immediately over scoops of vanilla ice cream with extra sauce drizzled on top.
Tips for the Perfect Bananas Foster
- Use ripe yet firm bananas to prevent mushiness during cooking.
- Melt butter first to avoid burning the sugar.
- Keep heat moderate; simmer rather than boil to maintain a smooth sauce.
- Measure rum in a glass before adding to the pan for safety if flambéing.
- If you’re skipping the flames, just let the rum cook off gently in the pan.
Delicious Variations and Serving Ideas
- Substitute half the rum with banana liqueur for authentic flavor.
- Experiment with dark, spiced, or flavored rums like coconut Malibu for a tropical twist.
- Make a non-alcoholic version using rum extract mixed with water or juice.
- Serve over pound cake, cheesecake, waffles, crepes, or oatmeal for a unique dessert experience.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or orange zest to deepen the flavor.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Bananas Foster is best enjoyed fresh while warm and gooey. If you have leftovers:
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days (note bananas will soften further).
- Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of rum to restore smoothness.
Conclusion
Bananas Foster is a decadent, show-stopping dessert that’s easier to prepare than you might think. With its perfect mix of caramelized bananas, spiced rum sauce, and creamy vanilla ice cream, it brings a touch of New Orleans magic to your table. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, this classic dish never fails to impress.
If you want to try more quick and delicious desserts, check out these favorites: Grilled Peaches, Caramelized Pineapple, Eton Mess, and Watermelon Slushie.
Bananas Foster
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4
Calories: Approx. 612 kcal per serving