Description
Banana’s Foster Banana Pudding
A delightful dessert mashup combining Banana’s Foster, Banana Cheesecake, and Banana Pudding! This simple, indulgent treat is served in individual wine glasses for a beautiful presentation. Perfect for any gathering, this dessert is sure to impress your guests!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 ¾ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup white sugar
½ cup salted butter, melted
For the Pudding:
1 package instant banana pudding mix
1 ¾ cups cold milk
8 oz cream cheese, softened
For the Whipped Cream:
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
½ tsp vanilla extract
For the Banana’s Foster:
¼ cup butter
⅔ cup dark brown sugar
3 ½ tbsp banana liqueur
1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp ground cinnamon
3 bananas, sliced
¼ cup walnuts, chopped
Instructions:
For the Crust:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, white sugar, and melted butter.
Press the mixture into the bottom of a square baking pan.
Bake for about 6 minutes, then set aside to cool.
For the Pudding:
Whisk the cold milk and instant banana pudding mix for 2 minutes.
Add softened cream cheese and mix using a stand or hand mixer until smooth.
Place the pudding in the fridge until ready to use.
For the Whipped Cream:
Using a stand or hand mixer with a whisk attachment, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed for 3-4 minutes until stiff peaks form.
Chill in the fridge until ready to use.
For the Banana’s Foster:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
Mix in the dark brown sugar, banana liqueur, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon.
Once the mixture starts to bubble, add the sliced bananas and chopped walnuts, stirring to coat.
Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the bananas are hot and caramelized.
Layer Ingredients into Wine Glasses:
Assemble your dessert by layering the graham cracker crust, banana pudding, whipped cream, and warm banana’s foster however you prefer! Repeat layers if desired for a beautiful presentation.
Enjoy this delicious banana-filled creation!
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions to ensure perfect layers and flavor in every glass. Start by preparing all components in the order listed. Once your crust is baked and cooling, make the pudding and whipped cream so they can chill. Prepare the Banana’s Foster last to serve it warm. For assembly, use a spoon or a piping bag for cleaner layers. Begin with a tablespoon of crust, followed by a layer of pudding, then a dollop of whipped cream, and finally a generous spoonful of the warm Banana’s Foster mixture. You can repeat the layers once more, finishing with a final drizzle of the caramel sauce from the skillet.
Serving Suggestions
This dessert is best served immediately after assembly while the Banana’s Foster is still warm. For an extra touch, garnish with a sprinkle of extra graham cracker crumbs, a few whole walnut pieces, or a mint leaf. While designed for individual wine glasses, you can also create a stunning trifle in a large glass bowl for a potluck. Pair with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of dessert wine to complement the rich, caramelized flavors.
How-to Summary
This dessert combines four key components: a baked graham cracker crust, a creamy banana pudding with cream cheese, homemade whipped cream, and a warm, caramelized Banana’s Foster topping with bananas and walnuts. Assemble in clear glasses to showcase the beautiful layers just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make any parts ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the crust, pudding, and whipped cream up to a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Prepare the Banana’s Foster and assemble the desserts just before serving.
What can I use instead of banana liqueur? You can substitute with dark rum for a traditional Foster flavor, or use 1/2 teaspoon of banana extract mixed with an extra tablespoon of butter. Orange juice is a non-alcoholic alternative, though the flavor profile will change.
How do I prevent the whipped cream from deflating? Ensure your bowl, beaters, and cream are very cold. Whip the cream just until stiff peaks form; over-whipping will turn it grainy and lead to separation.
Can I use a different pudding? Absolutely. Vanilla or butterscotch instant pudding mix are excellent alternatives if you cannot find banana flavor. The banana flavor will then come primarily from the Foster topping.
How should I store leftovers? Assembled desserts are best eaten immediately. If necessary, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, though the crust will soften and the Foster topping will lose its warm, saucy texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using hot crust when layering, as it will melt the pudding. Let it cool completely. Do not add the cream cheese to the pudding mix without ensuring it is fully softened, or you will end up with lumpy pudding. When cooking the Banana’s Foster, do not overcook the bananas, or they will become mushy; 4-5 minutes is sufficient to caramelize while maintaining texture. Finally, do not assemble the desserts too far in advance, or the layers will bleed together and the whipped cream may weep.
Conclusion
This Banana’s Foster Banana Pudding is a show-stopping dessert that masterfully blends classic flavors into an elegant, individual serving. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you can create a reliably impressive treat. The combination of cool, creamy pudding and warm, boozy caramelized bananas is truly unforgettable. Perfect for dinner parties or a special family treat, this recipe is as delightful to make as it is to eat.