Caramelized Banana Pudding with Spiced Whipped Cream

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 6
★★★★★
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If you're looking for a dessert that brings warmth and comfort, this Caramelized Banana Pudding with Spiced Whipped Cream is a must-try. The combination of rich caramelized bananas and a hint of spice in the whipped cream will leave your taste buds singing.

Ingredients for Caramelized Banana Pudding with Spiced Whipped Cream

Bananas are the star here, providing natural sweetness and a soft texture when caramelized. The granulated sugar combines with unsalted butter to create a luscious caramel sauce. Whole milk and heavy cream form the base for a rich pudding. Cornstarch thickens the pudding without adding extra flavor. Cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth, while vanilla extract adds a touch of floral sweetness. A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors. Crushed vanilla wafers add a crunchy texture. For the whipped topping, whipping cream is sweetened with powdered sugar and spiced with ground allspice. Mint leaves make an optional garnish for a fresh finish.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use overripe bananas for the best caramelization and flavor.
  • Keep stirring the caramel to prevent it from burning.
  • Chill your mixing bowl and whisk for quicker whipped cream.
  • Layer the dessert in clear glasses for an elegant presentation.

Serving Suggestions

This pudding pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. Alternatively, serve it with a sprinkle of toasted nuts for added crunch. It can also be accompanied by a glass of spiced rum for a delightful adult twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use plant-based milk?
Yes, but it might affect the thickness and flavor slightly.
How long does it keep in the fridge?
It can stay fresh for up to 3 days when covered tightly.
Can I skip the mint leaves?
Absolutely, they are just for garnish and freshness.

Caramelized Banana Pudding with Spiced Whipped Cream Recipe Walkthrough

Start by slicing the bananas into 1/4-inch pieces. This will help them caramelize evenly. Next, in a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the granulated sugar. Stir it gently until the sugar fully dissolves and becomes a golden brown caramel. Add the banana slices to this caramel mixture and cook until they're softened and well-coated. Once done, remove from heat and let them cool slightly.

In a separate saucepan, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt. Place it over medium heat, and keep stirring until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency. This ensures a smooth, creamy texture. Once thickened, set it aside.

To assemble, layer the pudding, caramelized bananas, and crushed vanilla wafers in your serving dish. This layering creates an interesting mix of textures. In a mixing bowl, whisk the whipping cream, powdered sugar, and ground allspice until soft peaks form. Top your layered pudding with this spiced whipped cream and garnish with mint leaves if desired. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
  • A great use for ripe bananas.
  • Layers of flavor and texture in every bite.
  • Simple ingredients with a big payoff.
  • A make-ahead dessert that's great for entertaining.

Ingredients

3 ripe bananas
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup crushed vanilla wafers
1 cup whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
Mint leaves for garnish

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Slice bananas into 1/4-inch pieces.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and add granulated sugar. Stir until sugar dissolves and turns golden brown.
3. Add banana slices to the caramel and cook until bananas are softened and coated with caramel.
4. Remove bananas from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
5. In a separate saucepan, whisk together milk, heavy cream, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens to pudding consistency.
6. Layer the pudding with caramelized bananas and crushed vanilla wafers in a serving dish.
7. In a mixing bowl, whisk whipping cream with powdered sugar and ground allspice until soft peaks form.
8. Top the layered pudding with spiced whipped cream and garnish with mint leaves.
9. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

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