Brennan’s Bananas Foster is a classic New Orleans dessert that combines the richness of butter and brown sugar with the sweetness of ripe bananas, all flamed with dark rum and served over vanilla ice cream. This indulgent dish was created at Brennan’s in New Orleans in 1951 and has since become a favorite dessert across the U.S. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a delicious dessert experience, this recipe brings the famous flambé to your home.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• ¼ cup butter (½ stick)

• 1 cup brown sugar

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

• ¼ cup banana liqueur

• 4 bananas, cut in half lengthwise, then halved

• ¼ cup dark rum

• 4 scoops vanilla ice cream

Directions

1. In a large pan, combine the butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.

2. Place the pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.

3. Add the banana liqueur and stir.

4. Add the bananas to the pan and cook until the bananas soften and begin to brown.

5. Carefully add the dark rum to the pan. Let it heat, then tilt the pan slightly to ignite the rum, or use a long match to set the rum on fire.

6. Once the flames subside, remove the bananas from the pan. Place four pieces of banana over each scoop of ice cream.

7. Pour the warm sauce over the ice cream and serve immediately.

Nutrients

• Calories: 330

• Fat: 16g

• Carbs: 42g

• Protein: 2g

• Sugars: 38g

The Origins of Bananas Foster

Bananas Foster was created at Brennan’s, a renowned New Orleans restaurant that is famous for its Creole-inspired dishes and classic desserts. The creation of the dish is attributed to chef Paul Blangé, who was tasked with developing a new dessert for the restaurant’s menu in the early 1950s. According to popular accounts, the dish was inspired by the abundance of bananas that were arriving in New Orleans at the time, as well as the need for a dessert that would complement the growing popularity of rum-based cocktails in the city.

The name “Foster” was chosen in honor of Richard Foster, a New Orleans restaurant supplier who was a frequent patron at Brennan’s and was known for his close ties with the restaurant. The dish quickly became a signature dessert of the restaurant, gaining widespread fame not only for its rich flavors but also for the dramatic presentation involving the flambé. This fiery technique, which involves igniting alcohol to create a brief, controlled flame, adds a touch of excitement to the dessert experience and has since become synonymous with Bananas Foster.

Key Ingredients of Bananas Foster

At the heart of Bananas Foster are a few key ingredients that contribute to its signature flavors and textures. The base of the sauce is a rich combination of butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon, which creates a caramelized syrup that coats the bananas as they cook. The brown sugar adds a rich, molasses-like sweetness, while the cinnamon brings a warm, spicy note that complements the fruit beautifully. The bananas are halved and added to the pan, where they cook down and soften, taking on a lovely golden color and a rich, caramelized flavor.

The addition of banana liqueur enhances the banana flavor and adds an extra layer of complexity to the sauce. The crowning touch, however, is the dark rum, which, when ignited, creates the flambé effect. The brief burst of flames not only adds drama but also helps to burn off some of the alcohol, leaving behind a deep, rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the bananas and the ice cream.

The Flambé Technique: A Showstopper in the Kitchen

One of the most exciting elements of making Bananas Foster is the flambé process. Flambéing involves igniting alcohol in a hot pan, creating a burst of flames that burns off the alcohol and leaves behind the intense flavors of the liquor. The dramatic nature of flambéing is part of what makes Bananas Foster such an impressive dessert to serve at dinner parties or special events.

To flambé the dish, dark rum is carefully added to the pan once the bananas have softened and caramelized. The rum is then ignited using a long match or by tilting the pan slightly to allow the flame to catch. It’s important to exercise caution during this step, as the flames can be high and unpredictable. Once the flames subside, the bananas are ready to be served over a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and the warm, caramelized sauce is poured over the top.

The flambé not only adds a dramatic effect but also infuses the dish with the deep, smoky flavor of the dark rum, which complements the sweetness of the bananas and the richness of the brown sugar and butter. This combination of flavors creates a dessert that is both indulgent and memorable.

Serving Bananas Foster: Over Vanilla Ice Cream

Bananas Foster is traditionally served over a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which helps to balance out the richness of the caramelized bananas and sauce. The cold, creamy ice cream contrasts perfectly with the warm, syrupy bananas, creating a delightful combination of temperatures and textures. The richness of the vanilla ice cream also helps to cut through the sweetness of the sauce, providing a refreshing contrast that makes each bite even more enjoyable.

While vanilla ice cream is the classic choice for serving Bananas Foster, you can also experiment with other flavors to suit your preferences. Coconut ice cream, for example, would complement the tropical flavors of the bananas and rum, while cinnamon or caramel ice cream would enhance the warm, spiced notes in the sauce. Regardless of the ice cream choice, the combination of the warm, boozy bananas and the cold, creamy base makes for an unforgettable dessert experience.

The Allure of Bananas Foster: A Perfect Dessert for Special Occasions

Bananas Foster is not only a delicious dessert but also an experience. The flambé technique adds a touch of theater to the dish, making it a perfect choice for special occasions. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a holiday, or simply treating yourself to something indulgent, Bananas Foster is sure to impress. The combination of the rich, caramelized bananas, the deep flavor of dark rum, and the creamy ice cream creates a dessert that feels luxurious and festive.

The dish is often associated with New Orleans and its vibrant culinary traditions, making it an ideal choice for themed dinners or celebrations that highlight Southern or Creole cuisine. Bananas Foster also pairs beautifully with a variety of cocktails, such as a classic Old Fashioned or a tropical rum punch, making it a versatile dessert for any gathering.

Health Considerations and Modifications

While Bananas Foster is undeniably delicious, it is a rich and indulgent dessert that should be enjoyed in moderation. The combination of butter, sugar, and alcohol makes this dish high in calories and fat, so it’s best reserved for special occasions or as an occasional treat. However, there are ways to lighten the dish if you wish to make a healthier version.

For a lighter option, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, and you can reduce the amount of sugar in the sauce to lower the overall sweetness. You can also experiment with using frozen banana slices instead of fresh bananas to create a more sorbet-like texture when served over ice cream. While these substitutions may alter the dish’s classic flavor and texture, they can still provide a delicious and satisfying alternative for those looking to enjoy a slightly healthier version of Bananas Foster.

Conclusion

Brennan’s Bananas Foster is a timeless dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas, the richness of caramelized brown sugar and butter, and the bold flavor of dark rum, all flambéed before being served over creamy vanilla ice cream. This indulgent dish, with its dramatic presentation and rich flavors, has become a favorite across the United States, thanks to its origins in New Orleans and its association with special occasions and celebrations.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests with a show-stopping dessert or simply treat yourself to something indulgent, Bananas Foster delivers a memorable experience. The combination of warm, boozy bananas and cold, creamy ice cream creates a contrast of temperatures and textures that makes every bite a delight. While rich and decadent, this dessert remains a beloved classic that continues to bring joy to those who experience it. So, light up the flame, savor the flavors, and enjoy the experience of making and indulging in this unforgettable dessert.