Caramelized Bananas (Ready in Under 10 Minutes)
Caramelized bananas are one of the simplest and quickest ways to use ripe bananas. Keep them in mind not only for dessert, but for topping waffles, pancakes, cakes and more, when you need something in under 10 minutes!

Originally published March 5, 2015
Whether you’re a banana fan or not, I bet you’ll simply adore these quick and easy caramelized bananas.
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I’m not a huge banana lover, but I loved this rich and comforting dessert!

I just returned from a week long trip to Jamaica (which I won from BevMo!) After eating lots of tropical fruit, many of which I’d never seen or heard of before, I was inspired to make this caramelized banana recipe in the midst of this horrific winter that many in the US, UK and Europe have been experiencing.
Each morning in Jamaica, I’d have a lovely little banana which was grown on the resort’s property and it was so sweet and full of flavour.
Along with this banana Nutella bundt cake, I think caramelized bananas are one of my favorite ways to use ripe bananas.

This banana recipe is something you can throw together in less than 10 minutes using only three ingredients, yet is really quite impressive, and versatile, too!

Try this similar peach sauce with maple syrup topping, if you like this type of recipe!

How do you Caramelize Bananas?

Cooking the bananas in butter and sugar (I like to use brown sugar for better flavor) for just a few minutes does the trick!
Which Bananas are Best for Caramelized Bananas?

I recommend using ripe bananas which are still firm, and not overly ripe, or soft. This is what they should look like when peeled. As you can see, they are not brown.

How to Use Caramelized Bananas

You will use this recipe as a go-to treat, addition to breakfasts, or even as a fancy dessert for company (with a splash of rum to gild the lily!)
- Use as a topping for buttermilk pancakes.
- Add to your plain oatmeal.
- Topping for waffles or French toast.
- Eat them plain/as is.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream.

See the printable recipe card below for lots of options and different ways to make this sweet dish.
Can I Freeze Caramelized Bananas?
No, unfortunately this is not a dish that freezes well. You can keep leftovers in your refrigerator for a day, then reheat gently. I would recommend serving this immediately and try to eat it the same day as it is made.

Caramelized Bananas
recipe by Christina Conte makes 2 servings
FULL PRINTABLE RECIPE BELOW
Ingredients
- butter
- brown sugar
- bananas
- (optional: dark rum)
Directions to Caramelize Bananas

Place the butter and sugar in a sauté pan over low heat.

Stir until the sugar dissolves and begins to bubble, then cook for about two minutes

Add the bananas. Continue to cook gently.

Turn the bananas and cook for another minute or so.

Add the rum (if using), stir gently and remove from heat.

Place a scoop of ice cream in two serving bowls, then top each with half of the banana pieces. Drizzle with the syrup.

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Caramelized Bananas
Special Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp butter good quality
- 3 Tbsp dark brown sugar
- 1 ripe banana not overly ripe/brown peeled, cut in half and sliced lengthwise
- 2 Tbsp dark rum omit for alcohol-free
Instructions
- Place the butter and sugar in a sauté pan over low heat, and stir until the sugar dissolves and begins to bubble.
- Simmer for about 2 minutes then add the bananas; continue to simmer and turn the bananas for another minute or so.
- Add the rum, stir and remove from heat.
- Place a scoop of ice cream in two serving bowls, then top each with 4 pieces of banana; drizzle with the syrup or serve as desired.
Notes
- Chop the banana into pieces instead of quartering them.
- Use another type of liqueur, such as brandy, Malibu coconut liqueur, or a pineapple vodka. Any tropical flavors would be lovely.
- Add nuts, coconut or other additions of your choice.
- Use less sugar, and add some maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
- Serve with freshly whipped (unsweetened) cream instead of ice cream.
- As is, or with ice cream, whipped cream or custard.
- On top of pancakes, waffles, oatmeal or French toast.
Nutrition
Similar recipes ~
Nutty Coconut Banana Ice Cream Sundaes
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Wonderful recipe. I cannot wait to make this, reminds me of our vacations to Punta Cana. Nothing more delicious than caramelized bananas! “mother”
Agreed, Karenann!
Well, here’s the proof! Everyone licked their plates! A pinch of fleur de sel was the chef’s kiss! Great recipe! Thanks Christina’s Cucina ❣️
As a (pretentious) child, Bananas Foster was my favorite dessert to order out. What child doesn’t love a conflagration? But I Like your recipe a bit better now, as I have low ceilings and flambéed desserts frighten us. (I will risk the ceiling for Christmas pudding and Crêpes Suzette.) I have a ton of bananas now and this is how I will use some!
Haha! Love it!! :)
These look so great! I’m going to have to try and make!
You’ll love them, Jessica!