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This smooth banana treat is a light and silky delight made from ripe bananas, cream and milk, just right for ending your meal or enjoying a cool, comforting snack.
I came up with this on a summer night when I needed to use some super ripe bananas without baking anything. Since then, my kids keep asking for it as a refreshing afternoon snack.
Ingredients
- 2 very ripe bananas: these give natural sweetness and are the main flavor base
- 250 ml whole milk: best choice for extra creaminess
- 100 ml heavy cream: key for getting that velvety smooth texture
- 2 tablespoons sugar: adjust based on how sweet your bananas are
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: go for natural extract for better flavor
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: helps thicken the cream naturally
- A few drops of lemon juice: keeps bananas from turning brown
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Step-by-Step Directions
- Getting the bananas ready:
- Mash the bananas in a bowl with a fork until smooth. Add a few drops of lemon juice and mix to stop browning. Make sure there aren't any lumps for a perfectly creamy dessert.
- Making the creamy base:
- In a thick-bottomed pot, blend the cornstarch with about 3 tablespoons of cold milk until fully dissolved. This stops lumps from forming. Then add the rest of the milk, the cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix everything well before putting it on the stove.
- Cooking the cream:
- Put the pot on low to medium heat and whisk non-stop for about 5 minutes. The mix will slowly get thicker. Don't stop stirring or it'll stick to the bottom. You'll know it's right when the cream coats the back of a spoon.
- Adding the bananas:
- Put the mashed bananas into the pot and keep stirring for another 2-3 minutes. The heat will bring out the banana flavor and blend everything together. The end result should be smooth and even.
- Cooling down:
- Pour the mix right away into small dishes or serving glasses. Let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then cover with plastic wrap touching the cream to prevent a skin from forming. Chill for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best for full flavor.
Bananas really make this dessert special. My grandmother from Provence used to make something like this during summer when we were kids. She always said the trick was picking bananas with brown spots on the skin because they're sweeter and have more flavor.
Storage
This creamy treat will stay fresh in your fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cover each dish with plastic wrap directly touching the cream so it doesn't form a skin. If you're making this ahead for guests, wait to add any toppings until right before serving.
Tasty Twists
You can easily make this dessert your own. For chocolate lovers, mix in a tablespoon of cocoa powder or 30g of melted dark chocolate into the warm cream. If you like caramel, try adding a layer of caramel sauce at the bottom of each glass. For something more exotic, swap the vanilla extract for rum extract or add a dash of cinnamon and nutmeg.
Serving Ideas
For a fancy dessert, serve in clear glasses with multiple layers. Start with crushed speculoos or shortbread cookies, add the banana cream, and top with homemade whipped cream. Finish with fresh banana slices, a mint leaf, or some grated chocolate. For extra crunch, sprinkle with granola or sliced almonds just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I stop bananas from turning brown in this dish?
Squeeze in a few drops of lemon juice while mashing your bananas to keep them from browning and maintain their nice color.
- → Can I make this treat ahead of time?
Sure thing, you can whip it up a day early. It stays good in the fridge for about 1-2 days with no problem.
- → Can I swap out the cornstarch?
Sure, you can use flour or try arrow-root as thickeners instead, just adjust how much you put in.
- → How can I make this treat even more indulgent?
Add some caramel, peanut butter or chocolate bits on top for an extra tasty kick.
- → What's the tastiest way to garnish it?
Try sliced bananas, sprinkled chocolate, or crumbled cookies on top right before you serve it.