Caramelized Banana Butterscotch Parfait

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Kitchen Equipment:

  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Skillet
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Parfait glasses or dessert cups

Directions:

Step 1: Prepare the Butterscotch Pudding

  1. Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Add the brown sugar and a pinch of salt to the melted butter. Stir until the mixture is bubbly and the sugar is dissolved.
  3. Thicken the Pudding: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and milk until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the saucepan, whisking constantly until it thickens and bubbles (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Cool the Pudding: Pour the pudding into a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until set (at least 1 hour).

Step 2: Caramelize the Bananas

  1. Heat the Skillet: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the Bananas: Add the sliced bananas and sprinkle the brown sugar over them. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, gently stirring until the bananas are golden brown and caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Parfaits

  1. Layer the Ingredients: In parfait glasses or dessert cups, start by adding a layer of graham cracker crumbs at the bottom.
  2. Add Butterscotch Pudding: Spoon a layer of butterscotch pudding on top of the crumbs.
  3. Add Caramelized Bananas: Layer in some caramelized bananas, followed by another layer of graham cracker crumbs and more butterscotch pudding.
  4. Top with Whipped Cream: Finish with a generous dollop of whipped cream on top. Drizzle with extra caramel sauce if desired.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Chill Before Serving: If possible, refrigerate the assembled parfaits for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
  2. Enjoy: Serve chilled and enjoy this delightful dessert!

Tips and Tricks:

  1. Make-Ahead: You can prepare the butterscotch pudding and caramelized bananas in advance. Assemble the parfaits just before serving for the best texture.
  2. Graham Cracker Alternatives: If you want a twist, try using crushed cookies (like chocolate sandwich cookies or ginger snaps) instead of graham crackers.
  3. Add Nuts: For extra crunch, consider adding chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) between the layers.
  4. Flavor Variations: Experiment with flavored whipped cream, such as vanilla or caramel, to add an extra layer of flavor.

Storing Leftovers:

Leftover Caramelized Banana Butterscotch Parfaits can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the texture of the graham crackers may soften over time. If you plan to store leftovers, consider keeping the layers separate and assembling them just before serving.

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