This Bananas Foster recipe is a timeless New Orleans dessert — rich, buttery caramel sauce meets tender bananas and a splash of rum for an elegant yet easy treat. Originally created at Brennan’s Restaurant in the 1950s, this dessert is famous for its dramatic tableside flambé and irresistible flavor.
You don’t need to be a professional chef to master Bananas Foster at home. With just a few ingredients and a simple stovetop method, you’ll create a restaurant-quality dessert in under 15 minutes — perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
4 ripe but firm bananas, sliced lengthwise or into thick rounds
4 tbsp unsalted butter
½ cup brown sugar
¼ tsp cinnamon
¼ cup banana liqueur (optional)
¼ cup dark rum (or bourbon for variation)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Vanilla ice cream, for serving
Instructions
- Melt butter and sugar: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and brown sugar together until smooth and bubbling.
- Add bananas: Gently add banana slices to the sauce and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly softened and caramelized.
- Flambé: Carefully add rum (or bourbon). Using a long lighter, ignite the alcohol and let the flames burn off naturally. (Optional but traditional!)
- Add vanilla and cinnamon: Stir in vanilla and cinnamon once the flames subside.
- Serve immediately: Spoon the warm bananas and sauce over vanilla ice cream.
Pro Tips & FAQs
Can I make Bananas Foster without alcohol?
Yes — simply omit the rum and banana liqueur and add 2 tablespoons of orange juice or apple juice for flavor.
Can I use bourbon instead of rum?
Absolutely! Bourbon adds a rich, smoky sweetness that complements the caramelized bananas beautifully.
How can I use Bananas Foster sauce?
Drizzle it over pancakes, waffles, cheesecake, or banana pudding for a decadent twist.
Nutrition Summary
A warm, buttery dessert made with caramelized bananas and rum sauce — indulgent, elegant, and ready in minutes.
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 serving | 290 | 2g | 45g | 11g | 2g | 35g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated and may vary depending on ingredients used.
