Bananas Flambe
Bananas Flambe is a dramatic and delicious dessert featuring caramelized bananas flambéed with brandy, offering warm, sweet, and slightly boozy flavors for special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut bananas in half lengthwise.
- Toss bananas in lemon juice and set aside.
- Combine sugar and margarine in a large skillet.
- Cook over low heat for 2 minutes, stirring constantly until sugar melts.
- Add bananas to the skillet.
- Stir gently and cook for 1 to 2 minutes or until thoroughly heated.
- Remove from heat.
- Pour brandy over the banana mixture and ignite.
- Let flames die down and serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of regular sugar, which can enhance the caramelization process. If you don't have brandy or rum, a splash of orange juice can add a delightful twist without the alcohol. Always ensure to use a skillet that can withstand high heat when igniting the alcohol.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Bananas Flambe warm, ideally straight from the skillet for that dramatic flair. They pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or over pancakes for a delightful breakfast treat. For a festive touch, serve alongside Dan'S Favorite French Apple Pie to create a decadent dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Bananas Flambe are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a little butter to restore moisture without losing the flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bananas Flambe contains roughly 248 calories, with 3g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 6g 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 use a different type of alcohol for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute brandy or rum with other spirits like whiskey or even a flavored liqueur. Just be cautious with the flavor profile, as some spirits may alter the overall taste of the dish.
What should I do if the flames won't ignite?
If the flames don't ignite, ensure you pour the alcohol evenly over the bananas and use a long lighter for safety. If you're still having trouble, turn off the heat, allow the mixture to cool slightly, and try igniting it again once it's less volatile.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute margarine with a vegan butter alternative and use maple syrup or coconut sugar in place of regular sugar for a vegan-friendly version. The dish will still be delicious and flambé beautifully!
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).