Caramelised bananas add rich flavour, natural sweetness, and a glossy finish to any dessert. Whether spooned over mousse cakes, layered on tarts, or served warm with ice cream, this quick method delivers perfectly golden, soft bananas every time. Made with just a few pantry staples, this is your go-to technique for elevating any banana-based dessert.
SALT TO BALANCE THE SWEETNESS
For a more rounded flavour, you can use salted butter instead of unsalted — it adds depth and balances the sweetness of the caramel. If you only have unsalted butter on hand, just add a small pinch of sea salt to the pan as the butter and sugar begin to melt. That touch of salt cuts through the richness and enhances the natural banana flavour without making the result taste salty.
ADD LIQUEUR OR VANILLA TO THIS CARAMELISED BANANA RECIPE FOR COMPLEXITY
This caramelised banana recipe is flexible, and you can elevate it with a splash of flavour. Stir in a little dark rum, amaretto, or banana liqueur once the caramel has formed, just before adding the bananas. Let the alcohol bubble for a few seconds to cook off. You can also add half a scraped vanilla bean or a few drops of vanilla extract with the sugar and butter. These additions give the caramelised bananas a subtle complexity that works beautifully in layered tarts and mousse cakes.
Caramelised Bananas
Equipment
- Kitchen scales
- Frying pan
- Heatproof spatula
- Knife
- Chopping board
Ingredients
- 300 g bananas
- 30 g brown sugar
- 30 g butter salted or unsalted
Instructions
- Peel the bananas and slice them evenly, either straight or on an angle, depending on your final presentation.
- Place a non-stick or stainless-steel frying pan over medium heat. Add the butter and brown sugar together and let them melt slowly. Swirl the pan gently to help the sugar dissolve and caramelise evenly.
- Once the mixture is bubbling and turning golden, carefully arrange the banana slices in a single layer over the caramel.
- Let the bananas cook for 1–2 minutes without moving them, then gently flip each piece to caramelise the other side.
- Once evenly golden and slightly softened, remove from heat and transfer the bananas to a plate or tray. Let cool slightly before using.
Video
CARAMELISED BANANAS FOR TART DECORATION
If you’re looking for a way to use caramelised bananas, this tart recipe is the perfect match. It features banana sponge, banana crèmeux, passion fruit mousse, and finishes with a glossy layer of caramelised bananas on top.
Craving more behind-the-scenes moments, step-by-step videos, and sneak peeks of upcoming recipes? Join me on Instagram @andbonbons for a closer look at the process, pastry tips, and plenty of chocolate inspiration.