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Banana Split Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 99 reviews

This classic Banana Split recipe features luscious fruit syrups, creamy banana-infused whipped cream, and rich homemade hot fudge, assembled over ripe bananas and scoops of your favorite ice cream flavors. Perfect for a nostalgic and indulgent dessert experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Strawberry or Pineapple Syrup

  • 1 lb. strawberries, chopped
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp water, divided
  • 1/2 tsp cornstarch
  • 1 lb pineapple, chopped
  • 2 tsp fresh lime juice
  • Pinch of ground cinnamon and/or cayenne pepper

Hot Fudge Sauce

  • 1/2 cup plus 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • Pinch of kosher salt
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 1/2 oz unsweetened chocolate, chopped
  • 2 tbsp butter, cut into small cubes

Banana Whipped Cream and Sundaes

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp powdered sugar
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
  • 5 bananas, divided
  • 12 scoops vanilla, chocolate, and/or strawberry ice cream
  • Rainbow sprinkles, chopped walnuts, and maraschino cherries, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare Strawberry or Pineapple Syrup: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the chosen fruit (strawberries or pineapple), granulated sugar, vinegar (for strawberries) or lime juice (for pineapple), and 1 tablespoon of water. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, mashing the fruit occasionally until it is completely broken down, about 8 to 10 minutes.
  2. Strain and Thicken Syrup: Strain the syrup, reserving the fruit solids for other uses, and return the syrup to the saucepan. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and the remaining 1 tablespoon of water, then whisk this mixture into the syrup. If making pineapple syrup, stir in a pinch of ground cinnamon and/or cayenne pepper.
  3. Simmer to Desired Consistency: Return the syrup to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your preferred consistency, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool. The syrup can be made up to 3 weeks in advance and stored chilled in an airtight container.
  4. Make Hot Fudge Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, whisk granulated sugar, whole milk, and kosher salt until the sugar dissolves. Simmer gently until small bubbles form along the edges of the pan, approximately 5 to 6 minutes.
  5. Add Cocoa and Chocolate: Reduce heat to low and whisk in unsweetened cocoa powder until smooth and lump-free. Remove the pan from heat and stir in chopped unsweetened chocolate until melted and the sauce is glossy.
  6. Incorporate Butter: Add butter cubes one at a time, stirring to melt each piece before adding the next. Set the hot fudge sauce aside until ready to use. This sauce can also be prepared up to 3 weeks ahead and refrigerated in an airtight container.
  7. Whip Banana Whipped Cream: Using an electric mixer on medium-high speed or a stand mixer with a whisk attachment, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl until stiff peaks form.
  8. Fold in Mashed Banana: In a small bowl, mash 1 banana completely with a fork until smooth, then gently fold it into the whipped cream. Transfer the banana whipped cream to a piping bag fitted with a star tip for easy decorating.
  9. Assemble Banana Splits: Slice the remaining 4 bananas in half lengthwise and arrange them evenly among sundae bowls. Place 3 scoops of your choice of ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, strawberry) between the banana halves.
  10. Decorate and Serve: Pipe the banana whipped cream generously over the ice cream. Drizzle with prepared fruit syrup and hot fudge sauce. Finish with rainbow sprinkles, chopped walnuts, and maraschino cherries for a classic, colorful presentation.

Notes

  • The fruit syrups can be prepared up to three weeks in advance and stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
  • Hot fudge sauce also stores well for up to three weeks chilled; reheat gently before serving.
  • Save the strained fruit solids from the syrup to use in smoothies, yogurts, or as toppings for toast.
  • For a twist, try mixing different combinations of ice cream flavors or adding crushed nuts other than walnuts as toppings.
  • Use ripe but firm bananas to ensure they hold their shape well in the dessert.

Keywords: banana split, classic dessert, homemade hot fudge, fruit syrup, ice cream sundae, banana whipped cream

Find it online: https://thefoodrecipe.com/banana-split-recipe/