Indulge in these delightful Creamy Banana Caramel Cups, where sweet, ripe bananas meet rich, buttery caramel in a smooth, creamy filling. Perfect for a quick dessert or a sweet treat anytime!
Ingredients:
- For the Caramel:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- For the Banana Cream Filling:
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- For the Base/Cups (Optional):
- Vanilla wafers, graham cracker crumbs or shortbread cookies.
- 2 tablespoons of melted butter (If using crumbs)
- Garnish (Optional):
- Whipped cream
- Extra caramel drizzle
- Sliced bananas
- Crushed nuts.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Caramel:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar, stirring constantly until it turns into a golden amber color. Be careful not to burn it.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully stir in the unsalted butter until melted and smooth.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. The mixture may bubble up, so be cautious.
- Return the saucepan to low heat and stir until the caramel is smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the sea salt. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Prepare the Banana Cream Filling:
- In a bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the lemon juice.
- In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the mashed bananas into the whipped cream until evenly combined.
- Prepare the Base (Optional):
- If using wafers or cookies, place one at the bottom of each serving cup.
- If using crumbs, combine the crumbs with the melted butter, and press a small amount into the bottom of each serving cup to form a base.
- Assemble the Cups:
- Spoon a layer of caramel into the bottom of each serving cup (if you are not using a cookie/crumb base, this step is the first layer).
- Add a layer of the banana cream filling on top of the caramel.
- Add another thin layer of caramel on top of the banana cream.
- Repeat layers if you have enough filling and caramel, ending with a layer of the banana cream.
- Chill and Garnish:
- Cover the cups and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow the caramel and cream to set.
- Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, extra caramel drizzle, sliced bananas, or crushed nuts, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer caramel, use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar.
- Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the banana cream for extra flavor.
- Use different types of cookies or crackers for the base to vary the texture and flavor.
- If you want to make a healthier version, you can substitute the heavy cream in the banana cream filling with a non dairy whipped topping.
- For a stronger banana flavor, you can add a small amount of banana extract to the cream.
Enjoy your creamy banana caramel cups!