Bananas Foster II: The Classic New Orleans Dessert Reimagined

Bananas Foster is an iconic dessert beloved for its caramelized bananas, rich rum sauce, and dramatic flambé presentation. Originating in New Orleans, this decadent treat is as much about spectacle as it is about flavor. Our Bananas Foster II recipe takes the traditional elements—bananas, brown sugar, butter, rum, vanilla, cinnamon, walnuts—and serves it all over creamy vanilla ice cream for a dessert that’s both simple and showstopping.

Table of Contents

• Introduction to Bananas Foster
• Key Ingredients
• Step-by-Step Directions
• Tips for Success
• Make-Ahead and Storage
• Creative Variations & Substitutions
• Serving Suggestions
• Community Reviews and Praise
• Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction to Bananas Foster

Bananas Foster was created in the early 1950s at Brennan’s Restaurant in New Orleans. It quickly became a staple of Southern fine dining, celebrated for its tableside preparation and rich, buttery flavor. The dish typically involves sautéing bananas in a brown sugar and butter sauce, adding a splash of rum, igniting the alcohol for a dramatic flambé, and serving the hot mixture over vanilla ice cream.

“A Bananas Foster is a traditional New Orleans dessert made from ripe bananas, rum, butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and ice cream.”
— Allrecipes Editorial

Key Ingredients

This recipe uses a handful of kitchen staples to yield professional results. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Butter: Forms the base of the sauce, giving it richness and gloss.
• Brown sugar: Sweetens and deepens the caramel notes.
• Rum: Lends a sharp, complex flavor and fuels the signature flambé.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and aroma.
• Cinnamon: Provides spice and depth.
• Bananas: Use ripe but not mushy bananas for the best texture.
• Walnuts: Provide crunch and nuttiness (optional, but highly recommended).
• Vanilla ice cream: The classic base for serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Pecans can be used instead of walnuts for a Southern twist.
• Brandy makes an excellent substitute for rum if desired.
• Banana liqueur can augment or replace the rum for extra banana flavor.

Step-by-Step Directions

Making Bananas Foster II at home is surprisingly straightforward. Here’s how to recreate this restaurant-style dessert in just a few steps:

1. Gather all ingredients.
2. Melt butter in a large, deep skillet over medium heat.
3. Stir in brown sugar, rum, vanilla extract, and cinnamon; bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring often as the sugar dissolves.
4. Add sliced bananas and walnuts to the pan. Continue cooking until the bananas are softened and warmed through (about 1-2 minutes).
5. If desired, flambé: Carefully ignite the rum sauce with a long lighter, letting the flames subside naturally.
6. Serve immediately over vanilla ice cream.

Visual Guide

Tips for Success

• Use fully ripe but firm bananas: Overripe bananas will fall apart; underripe ones lack sweetness and flavor.
• Dissolve sugar completely: Stir well as the mixture cooks to avoid graininess.
• Flambé safely: Turn off the burner before igniting the rum, and keep a lid nearby in case you need to smother the flames.
• Work quickly once bananas are added: The bananas should soften but not break down into mush.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Bananas Foster is best made fresh; however, the rum sauce can be made up to one day ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove before adding the bananas and walnuts.

• Do not prepare the bananas in advance as they discolor and lose texture quickly.
• Leftover sauce can be used as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or French toast the next morning.

Creative Variations & Substitutions

One joy of Bananas Foster is its flexibility. Here are popular twists that home cooks have loved:

• Brandy instead of rum: Offers a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.
• Pecans or other nuts: Swap in your favorite nut for variety.
• Corn flakes topping: A secret ingredient that adds crunch, as suggested by Allrecipes reviewers.
• Pancake or waffle topper: Use leftover sauce for a decadent breakfast treat.
• Banana liqueur: For an extra punch of banana flavor, add or substitute banana liqueur.
• No-alcohol version: Use apple juice or orange juice in place of rum for a family-friendly dessert.

Serving Suggestions

Bananas Foster II is traditionally served over vanilla ice cream, but it also pairs well with:

• Pound cake, angel food cake, or Belgian waffles
• Crepes or pancakes for brunch
• French toast—top with bananas foster sauce for a breakfast upgrade
• Plain Greek yogurt for a more wholesome treat

For an extra flourish, sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon or drizzle with chocolate sauce just before serving.

Community Reviews and Praise

• Bradley Miller: “Just right. Delicious and simple. Making sure the sugar is completely dissolved is very important for a great bananas foster.”
• Michelle Embrey Hembree: “I have made this for years. It is so delicious! The only thing I do differently is substitute brandy for the rum. It’s a favorite at my house. I usually make a double batch and it will all be gone that night or the next day.”
• LJ Shaw: “Made this on the weekend with pecans and had to omit the vanilla. Used the remaining little bit on pancakes the next morning and I now have a new favorite pancake topper.”
• Kelly: “I sliced the bananas the short way so it was easy to eat with the ice cream. For the rum, I simply got one of those one shot bottles at the liquor counter. It was the exact amount needed for the recipe.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the origin of Bananas Foster?

Bananas Foster was invented at Brennan’s Restaurant in New Orleans in the 1950s, specifically to highlight the city’s import of bananas and provide a visually impressive tableside dessert.

Is flambéing necessary?

No, flambéing is optional. It does add dramatic flair and cooks off the alcohol, leaving the complex rum flavor. If you do flambé, use caution and turn off the burner first.

Can I make Bananas Foster ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it, but add bananas and finish just before serving for best results.

Can I use a different alcohol?

Yes, brandy is a common substitute for rum, and banana liqueur can also be used for more banana flavor.

What are some creative ways to use leftover sauce?

Try drizzling over pancakes, French toast, or waffles for an incredible breakfast.

Can Bananas Foster be made without nuts?

Absolutely. Omit the walnuts or pecans for a nut-free version—the dessert will still be delicious.

Is there a no-alcohol version?

Yes, replace the rum with fruit juice such as apple or orange to make this family-friendly.

Conclusion

Bananas Foster II brings the flavor and drama of New Orleans to your home kitchen. With its bubbling rum sauce, tender bananas, and creamy ice cream, this dessert is both impressive and accessible. Whether you serve it for a special celebration or a cozy night in, it’s sure to become a favorite. Experiment with variations, use creative toppings, and savor every decadent bite!

Author

Srija Burman

 

Srija holds an MA in English Literature from the University of Calcutta and a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her interest in writing and editing ranges across niches, including academics, sports, and human psychology.

Read full bio of Srija Burman