Classic Bananas Foster (Printable version)
Luscious New Orleans-style Bananas Foster with caramelized bananas in a buttery brown sugar sauce, served warm over vanilla ice cream.
# What you need:
→ Fruit
01 - 3 ripe bananas, peeled, sliced lengthwise, and then halved
→ Sauce
02 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
04 - 1/4 cup orange juice
05 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
06 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
07 - Pinch of salt
→ For Serving
08 - 4 scoops vanilla ice cream
# How To:
01 - In a large skillet, over medium heat, gently melt the unsalted butter.
02 - In the same skillet, introduce the packed light brown sugar, orange juice, ground cinnamon, pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continuously stir the mixture until the sugar has completely dissolved and the sauce begins to bubble gently, approximately 2 minutes.
03 - Carefully place the sliced bananas into the simmering sauce. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, turning the banana slices once, until they are lightly caramelized yet still maintain their firm texture.
04 - Take the skillet off the heat source immediately.
05 - Evenly distribute the scoops of vanilla ice cream into four individual serving bowls. Generously spoon the warm caramelized bananas and the accompanying sauce over each portion of ice cream.
06 - Present and serve this luscious dessert without delay.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- You'll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up something so utterly luxurious.
- This version skips the alcohol, so it's a delightful treat everyone at your table can enjoy, no matter their age.
02 -
- Over-ripe bananas will turn to mush, so aim for firm yellow ones with just a few speckles.
- Resist the urge to overcrowd the pan; cook the bananas in batches if your skillet isn't large enough to give them space.
03 -
- Always have your ingredients prepped and measured before you start; this dish moves fast once the butter hits the pan.
- For a truly dramatic "flambé" look without alcohol, use a kitchen torch to quickly caramelize the top of the bananas right before serving.