This Creamy Banana Dessert is a luscious treat that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with a smooth, creamy texture. Enhanced with a touch of lemon juice and optional turmeric for a vibrant color, this dessert is both simple and sophisticated. Perfect for a refreshing end to a meal or a sweet snack, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to impress. Enjoy this delightful banana-based creation as a comforting and indulgent treat.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas (about 300 grams)
- 40 grams (2 tbsp) butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Optional: 1/3 teaspoon turmeric (for color)
- 2 egg yolks
- 25 grams (2 tbsp) cornstarch
- 200 milliliters (4/5 cup) milk
- 250 milliliters (1 cup) chilled cream (33-38%)
Directions:
- Mash Bananas:
- Mash the bananas until smooth and set aside.
- Cook Bananas:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the mashed bananas and lemon juice, stirring to combine.
- If using, add turmeric for a vibrant color and mix well.
- Prepare Milk Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously until fully combined.
- Combine Mixtures:
- Pour the milk mixture into the saucepan with the bananas, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble.
- Finish Dessert:
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Fold in the chilled cream until the dessert is smooth and creamy.
- Chill:
- Transfer to serving dishes and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled as a stand-alone dessert.
- Garnish with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for added flair.
- Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Pair with a light cookie or shortbread for a delightful dessert combination.
Cooking Tips:
- Banana Ripeness: Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Avoid Curdling: Ensure to whisk the egg yolk mixture well to avoid curdling when combined with hot ingredients.
- Consistent Stirring: Stir constantly when adding the milk mixture to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
- Cool Before Cream: Let the mixture cool slightly before folding in the cream to maintain its texture.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in Potassium: Bananas are a good source of potassium, which is essential for heart health.
- Creamy Texture: The addition of cream provides a rich, satisfying texture without being overly heavy.
- Natural Sweetness: Bananas add natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sugars.
Dietary Information:
- Contains Dairy: Includes milk and cream.
- Contains Eggs: Uses egg yolks for thickening.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, estimated):
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 3 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Fat: 20 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended as the texture may change upon thawing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple Ingredients: Uses basic ingredients that are easy to find and work with.
- Smooth and Creamy: The combination of banana and cream creates a luxuriously smooth texture.
- Customizable: Add flavors or toppings to suit your taste preferences.
- Easy Preparation: Minimal steps and cooking time make it a straightforward dessert option.
Conclusion: This Creamy Banana Dessert is a delightful and easy-to-make treat that brings out the natural sweetness of bananas in a rich, creamy form. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert is both comforting and indulgent, with the option to add vibrant color and flavor. Chilling it ensures a smooth and satisfying texture that’s sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth. Enjoy this banana-based creation as a refreshing end to any meal or a delightful snack throughout the day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
- Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before mashing.
- Can I substitute the cream with a non-dairy alternative?
- Yes, you can use coconut cream or any non-dairy cream substitute.
- How do I adjust the sweetness if my bananas are not very ripe?
- You can add a little honey or maple syrup to taste if needed.
- Can I use whole eggs instead of egg yolks?
- For best results, stick to egg yolks as they provide a richer texture.
- What can I use instead of turmeric for color?
- You can use a small amount of saffron or simply omit it for a natural banana color.
- Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
- Yes, it can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- How do I prevent the dessert from curdling?
- Whisk the egg yolk mixture well and add it gradually to the hot banana mixture.
- Can I use a different type of milk?
- Yes, you can use almond milk, soy milk, or any other milk of your choice.
- How do I make this dessert vegan?
- Use a plant-based cream and egg substitute like flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer.
- Can I add other flavors or ingredients?
- Yes, you can mix in vanilla extract, cinnamon, or even small pieces of chocolate for added flavor.