Banana Foster with Toasted Pecans

Banana Foster with Toasted Pecans is a decadent, warm dessert that features caramelized bananas in a rich brown sugar and butter sauce, finished with toasted pecans for added crunch and flavor. It’s a quick, elegant treat that can be served on its own or over ice cream, pancakes, or waffles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and buttery caramel sauce with hints of rum or vanilla
• Naturally sweet bananas caramelize beautifully
• Toasted pecans add a perfect nutty crunch
• Quick and easy to prepare in under 15 minutes
• Versatile topping or dessert served on its own

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Bananas, halved or sliced
• Unsalted butter
• Brown sugar
• Toasted pecans
• Vanilla extract or dark rum (optional)
• Ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• Ice cream, pancakes, or waffles for serving (optional)

Directions

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Cook until the sugar dissolves and the sauce starts to bubble.
3. Add the bananas cut side down. Cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly caramelized.
4. Gently turn the bananas and cook the other side for another 1–2 minutes.
5. Add vanilla extract or rum and stir gently (carefully if flambéing with rum).
6. Toss in toasted pecans and spoon the sauce over them.
7. Serve immediately over vanilla ice cream, pancakes, or on its own.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2–4
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 13 minutes

Variations

• Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans
• Add a splash of bourbon or brandy for depth
• Include a scoop of coconut ice cream for a tropical twist
• Serve over French toast or crepes for brunch

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Best served fresh. If needed, refrigerate leftovers for up to 1 day.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of butter to re-emulsify the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use underripe bananas?

Ripe but firm bananas are best. Underripe bananas won’t caramelize well and may remain starchy.

Do I have to use alcohol?

No, vanilla extract works beautifully and provides flavor without alcohol.

What type of pecans should I use?

Toasted pecans enhance the flavor. You can toast raw pecans in a dry skillet for 2–3 minutes.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.

Is this a make-ahead dessert?

It’s best served fresh, as the bananas can become mushy over time.

Can I flambé this dish?

Yes, if using rum, you can flambé by carefully igniting the alcohol in the pan. Use caution and proper ventilation.

What pairs well with Banana Foster?

Vanilla ice cream, waffles, crepes, French toast, or Greek yogurt are all excellent options.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.

What’s the best pan to use?

A nonstick or stainless-steel skillet works well for even caramelization.

Can I use white sugar instead of brown?

Brown sugar provides a deeper, more complex flavor due to the molasses content, but white sugar can be substituted in a pinch.

Conclusion

Banana Foster with Toasted Pecans is a warm, indulgent dessert that combines the soft sweetness of caramelized bananas with the crunch of toasted nuts. Ready in minutes and impressive enough for company, it’s a go-to recipe when you need a quick, luxurious treat. Perfect served over ice cream or enjoyed on its own, it’s a timeless favorite with endless pairing possibilities.

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