Baked Banana
Sweet baked bananas infused with cinnamon and lemon, topped with butter and sugar, perfect as a comforting dessert or brunch treat for any banana lover.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and slice bananas lengthwise and place in a shallow baking dish.
- Sprinkle each banana with lemon juice and dot with butter.
- Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon evenly over the bananas.
- Bake for 25 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- Garnish with lemon wedges before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, try adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon. If you want a healthier option, consider using honey or maple syrup instead of sugar. For a twist, feel free to add chopped nuts or raisins on top before baking. This recipe can also be adapted for a gluten-free dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked bananas warm as a delightful dessert or breakfast option. They pair beautifully with vanilla ice cream or yogurt for added creaminess. For an extra special touch, drizzle with caramel sauce or serve alongside Basic Waffles for a satisfying brunch. Garnish with additional lemon wedges for a refreshing finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the bananas in a microwave-safe dish and warm them in short intervals until heated through. Alternatively, you can re-bake them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to restore their original texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Banana contains roughly 623 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 64g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Using frozen bananas is not recommended for this recipe, as they may become mushy when baked. Fresh, ripe bananas provide the best texture and flavor. If you have overripe bananas, they are perfect for baking, but ensure they are thawed and drained of excess moisture if previously frozen.
What can I substitute for butter?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. For a lower-fat alternative, unsweetened applesauce can also work well, though it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the dish.
How can I make this recipe more indulgent?
To make this dish more indulgent, consider adding a layer of chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted chocolate before baking. You can also top the baked bananas with whipped cream or serve with a scoop of your favorite ice cream for a decadent treat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).