This Dairy-Free Bananas Foster is a fruity delight that’s both warm and comforting. With sweet bananas cooked in a rich sauce, it’s perfect over ice cream or pancakes!
I love how the caramel sauce makes everything taste so good. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! How can you resist a dessert that’s sweet, messy, and so easy to make? 🍌
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: For the best flavor, use ripe bananas. They should be yellow with some spots. If you have extra ripe ones, don’t worry! They’ll taste sweeter and work well in this recipe.
Coconut Oil: This is my go-to for a dairy-free base. It gives a nice richness to the sauce. If you don’t have coconut oil, you can use any dairy-free buttery spread or even canola oil, but the flavor will differ a bit.
Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar both work well here. Dark brown sugar adds a more robust flavor. You can substitute coconut sugar, but the taste will be slightly different.
Dark Rum: This ingredient adds depth and a little kick. If you prefer not to use alcohol, vanilla extract can replace it for extra flavor without the rum.
Dairy-Free Ice Cream: Any brand will work. I love using coconut-based ice cream for an extra creamy texture. You can also use homemade coconut whipped cream for a lighter option.
How Do I Get My Bananas Perfectly Caramelized?
Caramelizing bananas is a key part of this recipe. The goal is to cook them just right so they turn golden brown and soft. Here are some important steps:
- Start with medium heat. Too high will burn the sugar but too low won’t caramelize well.
- Gently place the sliced bananas cut-side down into the skillet. Avoid overcrowding to get even caramelization.
- Let them sit without stirring for 2-3 minutes until golden. Then, flip and caramelize the other side!
Be patient — this step makes all the difference for those delicious, sweet flavors in your Bananas Foster!
Dairy-Free Bananas Foster
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced lengthwise and halved
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil (or any dairy-free butter substitute)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup dark rum (optional, for flambé or flavor)
- Pinch of salt
- Dairy-free ice cream or coconut whipped cream, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple dessert takes about 10 minutes to prep and cook, and it’s best served immediately. Gather your ingredients, slice those bananas, and get ready to enjoy a deliciously warm treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Skillet:
Start by heating the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want it to melt and get hot, so keep an eye on it!
2. Create the Caramel Sauce:
Once the oil is melted, add the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt into the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 1-2 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbling mixture — this is what will make your sauce sweet and rich!
3. Caramelize the Bananas:
Now, gently add the sliced bananas to the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes without moving them; this will help them caramelize nicely. After a few minutes, gently turn them over and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they’re golden brown.
4. Add Flavor:
Stir in the vanilla extract to give the sauce an added depth of flavor. It’ll smell amazing!
5. Optional Flambé:
If you’re feeling adventurous, carefully add the dark rum to the skillet. Let it cook for about a minute to warm up. For a fun twist, turn off the heat and carefully ignite the rum using a long lighter, then let the flames subside. This step is optional but certainly adds flair!
6. Serve the Bananas Foster:
Remove the skillet from the heat and use a spoon to dish out the bananas and sauce into serving bowls. The warm, gooey goodness is ready to shine!
7. Add the Toppings:
Top your Bananas Foster with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or a lovely dollop of coconut whipped cream. The contrast of the warm bananas with the cold topping is just divine!
8. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and savor this delightful dairy-free dessert. Let the rich caramel flavor and soft bananas take you on a sweet adventure!
This recipe beautifully captures the essence of classic Bananas Foster while ensuring it’s dairy-free, using coconut oil for richness and delicious toppings to complete the dish!
Can I Use Other Sweeteners Instead of Brown Sugar?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup. Just keep in mind that maple syrup will make the sauce a bit thinner, so adjust cooking time as needed.
What If I Don’t Have Dark Rum?
No problem! You can skip the rum altogether or replace it with a splash of orange juice or extra vanilla extract for a delicious flavor boost without the alcohol.
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes, any leftover Bananas Foster can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, but the bananas may become softer upon reheating.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan as it uses coconut oil and dairy-free toppings. Just ensure that your ice cream or whipped cream is dairy-free, and you’re good to go!