Bananas Foster is a show-stopping dessert with a flair for the dramatic. Bananas are sautéed in a rich brown sugar and rum caramel sauce, flambéed for a touch of spectacle, then served warm over vanilla ice cream. Originally created in New Orleans, this dessert is perfect for impressing guests—or treating yourself!
[cooked-sharing]
Yields4 ServingsPrep Time10 minsCook Time10 minsTotal Time20 mins
Ingredients
2ripe bananas, peeled and sliced lengthwise or into thick coins
¼cupunsalted butter
⅓cupbrown sugar (light or dark)
½tspground cinnamon
¼cupdark rum
½tspvanilla extract (optional)
Vanilla ice cream (for serving)
Prepare Ingredients
1
Slice the bananas and keep your ice cream ready to go—it’s a fast cook.
Make the Caramel Sauce
2
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
Add the brown sugar and cinnamon. Stir until smooth and bubbling.
Add the Bananas
3
Gently place the banana slices into the sauce.
Cook for 1–2 minutes on each side until tender but not mushy.
Flambé (Carefully!)
4
Optional Step for Dramatic Effect: Remove pan from heat. Add the rum.
Carefully ignite with a long lighter or match. Let the flames subside (this will burn off the alcohol), about 30 seconds.
Stir gently to combine.
Safety Tip: Keep a lid nearby in case you need to extinguish the flame quickly. Never pour alcohol directly from the bottle into a hot pan.
Serve Immediately
5
Scoop vanilla ice cream into serving bowls.
Spoon bananas and warm sauce generously over the top.
