Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas: The star of the dessert, providing natural sweetness and a creamy base.
• 40 g (2 tbsp) butter: Adds richness and depth of flavor, helping to meld the ingredients together.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice: Enhances the banana flavor while preventing the bananas from browning.
• Optional: 1/3 tsp turmeric for color: Provides a vibrant yellow hue without affecting the taste.
• 2 egg yolks: Essential for thickening the dessert and adding a rich, velvety texture.
• 25 g (2 tbsp) cornstarch: A natural thickener that gives the dessert its smooth, pudding-like consistency.
• 200 ml (4/5 cup) milk: Adds creaminess and helps to dissolve the cornstarch and egg yolks.
• 250 ml (1 cup) chilled cream (33-38%): Whipped and folded into the dessert for a light, airy finish.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bananas: Start by peeling the bananas and slicing them into small pieces. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your dessert will be. Place the banana slices into a mixing bowl and mash them thoroughly using a fork or potato masher. For those who prefer a smoother texture, consider using a blender or food processor to create a silky banana puree.
2. Cook the Mixture: In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and is slightly bubbling, add the mashed bananas. Stir in the lemon juice, which not only enhances the natural sweetness of the bananas but also keeps them from oxidizing and turning brown. If you’re looking for a visually appealing dessert, this step is crucial.
3. Add the Color: If you want to give your dessert a pop of color, now is the time to add the turmeric. This golden spice adds a bright, sunny yellow to the mixture without altering the flavor, making your dessert look as good as it tastes.
4. Thicken the Dessert: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, cornstarch, and milk until you have a smooth, lump-free mixture. Slowly pour this mixture into the saucepan with the bananas, stirring constantly to avoid any lumps. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture begins to thicken. This process should take about 3-5 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Incorporate the Cream: While the banana mixture is cooling, take the chilled cream out of the refrigerator and whisk it until soft peaks form. This will add a light, airy texture to your dessert. Gently fold the whipped cream into the banana mixture, being careful not to deflate the cream. This step transforms the dessert from a thick pudding to a light, creamy delight.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the creamy banana dessert into individual serving bowls. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a dusting of cocoa powder, or a few fresh banana slices for an extra touch of flavor and presentation. This dessert is best enjoyed immediately while it’s still slightly warm and incredibly creamy.

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Banana Dessert:

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your dessert will be. Overripe bananas are ideal as they are at their peak sweetness.
• Chill the Cream: Ensure your cream is well-chilled before whipping it. Cold cream whips up faster and holds its shape better, resulting in a lighter, fluffier dessert.
• Customize the Flavor: Feel free to experiment with additional flavors. A splash of vanilla extract can add warmth, while a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can introduce a hint of spice.
• Texture Preferences: For a smoother dessert, use a blender to puree the banana mixture before adding the cream. If you like a bit of texture, leave the bananas slightly chunky.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: Approximately 220
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 2g

This dessert is relatively low in calories and rich in healthy fats from the cream, making it a satisfying and indulgent treat that won’t derail your healthy eating habits.

FAQs:

Q: Can I make this dessert vegan?
A: Absolutely! To make a vegan version of this dessert, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative such as coconut oil, and use coconut cream in place of dairy cream. Additionally, swap the milk with a plant-based option like almond or oat milk. You can also use a cornstarch and water mixture to replace the egg yolks, ensuring the dessert still thickens properly.

Q: How can I store leftovers?
A: If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s so delicious!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the dessert may thicken further as it chills, so you may want to give it a quick stir before serving.

Q: What can I use instead of cornstarch?
A: If you don’t have cornstarch on hand, you can substitute it with arrowroot powder or tapioca starch in equal amounts. Both will thicken the dessert similarly to cornstarch and provide a smooth, creamy texture.

Q: Can I add other fruits to this dessert?
A: Certainly! This dessert is versatile and pairs well with various fruits. Consider folding in finely chopped strawberries, mangoes, or even blueberries for a fruity twist. Just be mindful that adding more fruit may alter the consistency slightly.

Q: Is there a way to make this dessert ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the banana mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply whip the cream, fold it into the chilled banana mixture, and enjoy.

Conclusion:

This creamy banana dessert is not only quick and easy to make but also offers a healthier alternative to traditional desserts that often contain added sugars and refined flours. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas, combined with the richness of cream and the slight tang of lemon juice, creates a dessert that’s both satisfying and guilt-free.

Whether you’re serving it as a quick snack, a light dessert after dinner, or a treat for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your preferences, making it a staple in your dessert repertoire.

So the next time you find yourself with a few ripe bananas and a craving for something sweet, give this creamy banana dessert a try. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the simple pleasures of cooking and indulging in something truly delicious. Enjoy!