Bananas Barefoot
A decadent dessert featuring caramelized bananas in a rich Grand Marnier sauce, served over vanilla ice cream and sprinkled with cinnamon, perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put Grand Marnier, butter, and sugar in a large skillet.
- Stir at high heat until the mixture starts to caramelize.
- Cut bananas lengthwise, peel, and sauté until golden.
- Place the bananas on top of vanilla ice cream.
- Spoon the caramel sauce over the ice cream.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark rum instead of Grand Marnier. Make sure to cut the bananas just before sautéing to prevent browning. If you prefer a healthier option, try using coconut oil instead of butter. Always keep the heat high to achieve a good caramelization without burning the sugar.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm over a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. It pairs beautifully with Cherry-Black Walnut Ice Cream for an elevated dessert experience. Consider adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture or serving with a slice of Wisconsin Torte for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover caramelized bananas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it can make the bananas mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bananas Barefoot contains roughly 432 calories, with 9g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this recipe without alcohol?
Yes, you can substitute the Grand Marnier with orange juice or a non-alcoholic orange-flavored syrup to achieve a similar citrus note. This adjustment will maintain the flavor profile while making it suitable for all ages.
What if I can't find ripe bananas?
If you can't find ripe bananas, you can leave them at room temperature for a couple of days to ripen. Alternatively, you can use slightly under-ripe bananas; they will still caramelize nicely but may not be as sweet. Just make sure they are yellow with a few brown spots.
Can I use other fruits instead of bananas?
Absolutely! Peaches, pineapples, or apples can be great alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different fruits have varying moisture contents and cooking times. Make sure to choose fruits that caramelize well for the best texture and flavor.
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).