Print

Bananas Foster Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.9 from 8 reviews

Bananas Foster is a decadent American dessert featuring caramelized bananas cooked in a rich, buttery rum sauce with brown sugar and cinnamon, served warm over creamy vanilla ice cream. This quick and easy recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweet, spiced, and boozy flavors that make for an indulgent treat.

Ingredients

Bananas Foster Ingredients

  • 4 medium bananas
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 2/3 cup dark brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup dark rum
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
  • 4 scoops vanilla ice cream, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bananas: Peel the bananas and slice them into long, thick strips or alternatively cut them in half lengthwise. Set aside for cooking.
  2. Make the Caramel Base: Melt the butter in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the dark brown sugar and cinnamon, whisking continuously until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
  3. Cook the Bananas: Carefully place the banana slices in the skillet in a single layer. Gently stir the bananas until they begin to soften but still hold their shape.
  4. Add the Rum and Thicken Sauce: Pour in the dark rum and gently swirl the skillet to combine. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the caramel thickens to a honey-like consistency. Be cautious as the rum may flame.
  5. Flambé (Optional): For a dramatic presentation, remove the skillet from heat, tip it slightly away from you, and ignite the rum using a long lighter or open flame on the stove. Allow the alcohol to burn off while gently shaking the pan back and forth. Once the flame subsides, return to heat briefly.
  6. Finish the Sauce: Stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans (if using). Remove the pan from the heat immediately to prevent overcooking the bananas.
  7. Serve: Spoon the warm bananas and sauce into serving bowls over scoops of vanilla ice cream. Drizzle with extra caramel sauce from the pan and enjoy immediately while warm.

Notes

  • The rum is essential for the authentic flavor, but you can substitute with banana liqueur or omit for a non-alcoholic version.
  • Use dark rum for the richest flavor, but spiced rum also pairs well.
  • Chopped pecans add a nice crunch but are optional.
  • Be careful while flambéing to avoid burns or fire hazards — ignite the rum away from your face and surroundings.
  • Serve immediately as the bananas are best enjoyed warm and the ice cream melts into the sauce.