A Buttery, Boozy Dessert Flambé with Caramelized Bananas 🍌🔥
Hey Kitchies! 💛
If there’s one dessert that will transport you straight to the streets of New Orleans with just one bite — it’s Bananas Foster. This classic Southern dessert was first created at the legendary Brennan’s Restaurant, and let me tell you… the combination of buttery caramel sauce, warm bananas, and a splash of rum is pure magic.
The best part? It’s deceptively easy to make at home in just 10 minutes — but it tastes like something you’d order at a fancy French Quarter restaurant. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’ve got yourself a little taste of NOLA right in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Bananas Foster 🍌🔥
✅ Only 7 ingredients
✅ Ready in 10 minutes
✅ Buttery caramel sauce with warm cinnamon spice
✅ Dramatic flambé finish (don’t worry — I’ll walk you through it!)
✅ Perfect for date night or brunch
A Little Family Story 💕
The first time I made Bananas Foster, I was trying to impress my husband on one of our anniversary nights at home. I was a little nervous about setting the pan on fire… but once I saw those flames dance across the skillet, I felt like a total pro! Now, it’s become one of our favorite “fancy but secretly easy” desserts for special occasions.
Why This Bananas Foster Is the BEST
- Classic buttery caramel sauce
- Splash of dark rum for flambé magic
- Soft, caramelized bananas
- Only 1 pan + 10 minutes
Tips for Flambé Success
- Use dark rum — it’s more flavorful + easier to ignite
- Always turn off the heat before adding alcohol
- If you don’t want to flambé, just let the rum cook out on its own
Substitutions & Variations
| Ingredient | Swap For | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Dark Rum | Bourbon | For a smokier twist |
| Bananas | Pineapple | Tropical version 🍍 |
| Vanilla Ice Cream | Coconut Ice Cream | Dairy-Free Option |
Make It Healthier 🌿
✅ Swap butter for coconut oil
✅ Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar
✅ Serve with Greek yogurt instead of ice cream
How to Store + Reheat
Honestly? This dessert is best served fresh — but if you have leftovers:
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days
- Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat
FAQs
Do I have to flambé the rum?
Nope! You can just simmer the rum down until the alcohol cooks off.
Can I make this without alcohol?
Absolutely! Swap the rum for apple juice + a splash of vanilla extract.
What kind of bananas work best?
Go for just ripe bananas — not too green, not too brown.
What can I serve Bananas Foster with?
Besides vanilla ice cream, try it over pancakes, waffles, or even French toast!
And there you have it!
This Classic New Orleans Bananas Foster is warm, buttery, boozy, and straight-up irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a fancy dinner or just a little weeknight treat, one bite will have you saying Laissez les bons temps rouler! (Let the good times roll!)
If you try this recipe, don’t forget to tag @KitchiesKitchen — I love seeing your creations!
Craving More Southern Desserts?
- Sweet Peach Cobbler
- Butterscotch Ice Cream
- Blueberry Lemon Crumble
Categories:
Dessert | Southern | Quick & Easy
Tags:
#BananasFoster #NewOrleansDessert #EasyDesserts
Would you like me to create a Printable Date Night Menu with recipes like this? 🍌✨
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Classic New Orleans Bananas Foster
Description
If there’s one dessert that will transport you straight to the streets of New Orleans with just one bite — it’s Bananas Foster.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|
| Unsalted Butter | ¼ cup |
| Brown Sugar | ½ cup (packed) |
| Ground Cinnamon | ½ tsp |
| Bananas (sliced lengthwise + halved) | 2 large |
| Dark Rum | ¼ cup |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp |
| Vanilla Ice Cream | For serving |
Instructions
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together. Stir in cinnamon and cook for 1-2 minutesuntil bubbly and caramelized.
Add the bananas to the skillet, cut side down. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften and start to caramelize. Gently flip them over with tongs.
Turn off the heat and carefully pour in the rum. If you’re feeling brave — use a long lighter to ignite the rum in the pan. Let the flames dance for a few seconds until they burn out. If you’re not into flames, just let the alcohol simmer down for 1-2 minutes.
Stir in vanilla extract and spoon those golden, buttery bananas over a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Drizzle with extra caramel sauce from the pan.
