There is something truly magical about the warm, caramelized flavors of the Bananas Foster with Rum and Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe that instantly transports you to a cozy evening filled with indulgence and comfort. This classic dessert is a sensational blend of buttery sweetness, fragrant vanilla, and a hint of cinnamon, all wonderfully elevated by the bold presence of dark rum. Served over creamy vanilla ice cream, each spoonful offers a perfect balance of temperature and texture. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself to a delightful finish to any meal, this recipe is an absolute must-try.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a flat lay of several ingredients on a white marbled surface. At the top left, there are three yellow bananas with small brown spots. To the right of the bananas is a small white bowl filled with dark liquid labeled vanilla extract. Below the bananas, there is a white bowl filled with light brown coconut sugar. Close to the center, a small round dish contains white salt, and next to it, a white bowl holds a small amount of cinnamon powder. Further down, on the right side, a white plate holds two scoops of vanilla ice cream with an ice cream scoop resting on the plate, the scoop having a wooden handle. In the bottom left, a clear glass has dark rum inside. Next to the glass, a white bowl contains yellow cubes of unsalted butter. All items are neatly arranged and clearly visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; just a handful of well-chosen ingredients come together to create layers of flavor that feel both luxurious and homey. Each element plays a crucial role—from the richness of the butter to the natural sweetness of the coconut sugar and the warm notes of cinnamon that gently highlight the caramelization.

Unsalted butter, 6 tablespoons: Butter is the rich, creamy base that helps caramelize the sugar and work its magic.
Coconut sugar, ½ cup: A wonderful natural sweetener that adds a deeper, caramel-like flavor than regular sugar.
Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: This enhances the overall sweetness and adds a floral depth to the sauce.
Ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon: Just the right amount to warm up the palate without overpowering the bananas.
Kosher salt, a pinch: Balances the sweetness and brings all the flavors to life.
Bananas, 3 medium: Choose ripe but firm bananas for the best texture and sweetness.
Dark rum, ¼ cup: Adds complexity and is essential for the dramatic flambé step.
Vanilla ice cream, 2 scoops: The perfect cool counterpart to the warm, caramel sauce and soft bananas.

How to Make Bananas Foster with Rum and Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe

Step 1: Make the sauce

Start by melting the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Then, whisk in the coconut sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of kosher salt. Keep whisking gently but constantly for about a minute until you see the mixture start to bubble and thicken slightly. This step transforms the ingredients into a luscious, aromatic caramel sauce that serves as the heart of the dish.

Step 2: Soften the bananas

Once your sauce is bubbling, carefully place the sliced bananas cut side down into the skillet. Let them cook for 1 to 2 minutes. You’ll want to see the bananas soften and develop a slight caramelization—that rich golden touch that makes this dessert unforgettable. Flip them gently with a spatula to warm the other side, making sure they’re tender but still intact.

Step 3: Flambé the sauce

This is the show-stopping moment in the Bananas Foster with Rum and Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe. Turn off the heat to avoid any accidents, then pour in the dark rum while the sauce is still bubbling. Using a long-reach lighter, carefully ignite the rum to flambé the sauce. Watch the flames dance and then slowly subside as the alcohol cooks off, leaving behind a beautiful depth of flavor. This technique intensifies the rum’s sweetness and adds a rich complexity to the sauce.

Step 4: Serve with ice cream

Divide the sautéed bananas and warm sauce evenly between your serving dishes. Top each plate with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold, creamy ice cream melting over the warm bananas and sauce creates an irresistible contrast that makes every bite feel like a festival of flavors.

How to Serve Bananas Foster with Rum and Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe

A silver pan is shown on a white marbled surface, with around eleven golden brown slices of plantains lying flat in dark, bubbling caramel sauce. A woman's hand is pouring more caramel sauce from a small clear glass onto the right side of the pan. The sauce adds a shiny glaze to the plantains, which have a slightly soft texture with light ridges from slicing. A black and gray lighter rests above the pan. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

You can keep it simple or add a little extra flair. A sprinkling of toasted pecans or a fresh mint leaf adds a nice crunch and a pop of green that contrasts beautifully with the golden bananas. A light dusting of ground cinnamon or nutmeg will also enhance the warm spice notes in the sauce.

Side Dishes

This Bananas Foster with Rum and Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe pairs wonderfully with a small espresso or a cup of rich, dark coffee to balance the sweetness. For a brunch twist, consider serving it alongside fluffy waffles or French toast for a decadent morning treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, try serving the Bananas Foster in individual ramekins topped with the ice cream and garnishes. Or layer the bananas and sauce over slices of pound cake or French bread pudding for a crowd-pleasing dessert that feels both gourmet and comforting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the bananas and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The bananas may soften further and the sauce will thicken, but the flavors will remain vibrant and delicious.

Freezing

Freezing is best reserved for the sauce alone if you want to preserve it longer. Pour the cooled sauce into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to one month. However, the bananas do not freeze well as they can become mushy upon thawing.

Reheating

Reheat the sauce gently on low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently. Add a splash of water or a little butter if it becomes too thick. Warm the bananas briefly in the sauce, but be careful not to overcook them. Serve immediately with fresh vanilla ice cream for the best taste experience.

FAQs

Can I use regular granulated sugar instead of coconut sugar?

Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar if you don’t have coconut sugar on hand, but the flavor may be a bit less caramel-like and more classic sweet. Coconut sugar adds that subtle, rich depth, but either will work.

Is it necessary to flambé the bananas?

While flambéing adds drama and enhances the rum flavor by burning off the alcohol, it’s optional. You can skip the flame step and simply stir the rum into the hot sauce, but the flambé really takes this Bananas Foster with Rum and Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe to the next level.

Can I prepare the sauce without rum?

Absolutely, though the distinct flavor from the rum will be missing. You can substitute with a splash of vanilla or even a rum extract to maintain some of that spirit’s essence, keeping the dish alcohol-free.

What’s the best banana ripeness for this recipe?

Use bananas that are ripe but still firm. Overripe bananas can become mushy during cooking, while underripe bananas won’t caramelize properly and may taste bland.

How do I prevent the bananas from sticking to the pan?

Make sure the butter and sugar mixture is fully melted and bubbling before adding bananas, and place them cut side down carefully. Use a spatula gently to flip them once they have softened and caramelized.

Final Thoughts

This Bananas Foster with Rum and Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe is a true celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something exceptional. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or indulging on your own, it’s a dessert that brings comfort and elegance together effortlessly. Don’t wait for a special occasion—go ahead and dive into this warm, boozy, dreamy treat today!