Easy Banana Caramel Dessert Recipe

This easy banana caramel dessert is a sweet, decadent treat that brings together the comforting flavor of ripe bananas with rich, buttery caramel. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight indulgence or need a simple dish to impress guests, this no-fuss dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this banana caramel dessert because it’s incredibly simple to make, uses just a few pantry staples, and doesn’t require any fancy baking skills. The natural sweetness of bananas pairs perfectly with smooth caramel sauce for a dessert that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. It’s also highly versatile—you can enjoy it warm or chilled, with or without toppings, and it’s easy to scale up for a group.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ripe bananas
• Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Butter
• Brown sugar (if making caramel from scratch)
• Heavy cream (optional, for homemade caramel)
• Vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional, for serving)

directions

1. Prepare the bananas: Peel and slice the bananas into thick rounds.
2. Make the caramel (optional): In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and brown sugar until bubbling. Stir in heavy cream and a pinch of salt. Simmer until smooth, then add a splash of vanilla extract.
3. Cook the bananas: In a skillet, add a little butter and the banana slices. Cook for 1–2 minutes on each side until slightly golden and caramelized.
4. Add caramel: Pour the caramel sauce over the bananas in the skillet and gently mix to coat them evenly. Heat for another 1–2 minutes.
5. Serve: Spoon the warm banana caramel mixture into serving bowls. Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Variations

• Nutty delight: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top for crunch.
• Chocolate drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate or chocolate syrup.
• Boozy version: Add a splash of rum or bourbon to the caramel sauce for a grown-up twist.
• Baked version: Layer bananas and caramel in a small baking dish, sprinkle with crumble topping, and bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes.
• Add pastry: Serve the caramel bananas over puff pastry or crepes for an elevated dessert.

storage/reheating

Store leftover banana caramel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Note: bananas may soften further upon reheating but will still taste great.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, store-bought caramel works perfectly and saves time. Just warm it slightly before using.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the caramel sauce in advance and cook the bananas right before serving.

What type of bananas should I use?

Use ripe but firm bananas. Overripe ones may become mushy when cooked.

Is this dessert suitable for kids?

Absolutely—just skip any alcohol-based additions.

Can I use coconut cream instead of heavy cream?

Yes, coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free or tropical twist.

Can I bake this instead of cooking on the stove?

Yes, layer in a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

How can I make it vegan?

Use vegan butter and a plant-based caramel sauce or make your own with coconut milk and sugar.

Will the bananas get mushy?

They’ll soften slightly when cooked, but if you don’t overcook them, they’ll hold their shape nicely.

Can I add spices?

Yes, cinnamon, nutmeg, or a touch of cardamom pairs wonderfully with banana and caramel.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of bananas changes significantly when thawed.

Conclusion

This easy banana caramel dessert is a delightful, stress-free recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, it’s a warm and satisfying dessert that’s sure to be a favorite. With plenty of room for customization, you can make it as simple or as fancy as you like—just don’t forget the whipped cream.

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