There’s something magical about the moment bananas meet butter, brown sugar, and a hint of cinnamon—especially when it all swirls into a creamy, frozen treat. If you’ve ever had a scoop of banana foster ice cream from Haagen-Dazs or Hudsonville, you already know how addictive that flavor combo can be. But what if you could recreate that same indulgence at home—no alcohol, no fuss, just rich banana goodness in every bite?
Whether you’re an ice cream enthusiast or just love trying new banana dessert recipes, this version of the classic banana foster recipe brings you the familiar caramelized comfort with a fresh, homemade twist. Ready to turn a few ripe bananas into your next freezer favorite? Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
Key Benefits
- Classic flavor, no alcohol: You get all the deep caramelized banana goodness of a traditional banana foster recipe, without needing rum or liqueur.
- Inspired by the best: This version captures the richness of store favorites like banana foster ice cream Haagen-Dazs and Hudsonville ice cream, but with your own personal twist.
- Flexible prep: Whether you’re team churn or no-churn, the process adapts to your kitchen tools.
- Family-friendly: Since it’s alcohol-free, it’s perfect for kids and adults alike.
- Freezer-ready dessert: Make it ahead, and you’ve got an easy crowd-pleaser on hand for any sweet craving.
This is more than just banana ice cream—it’s a creamy, dreamy dessert with personality.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this creamy banana foster ice cream recipe from scratch. Stick with fresh, quality ingredients to let the banana-caramel flavor really shine.
For the banana foster swirl:
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (a great rum-free substitute)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
For the ice cream base:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon non-alcoholic vanilla flavor
- Pinch of salt
Tip: Ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots work best—they bring natural sweetness and a richer banana flavor, just like what you’d expect from Hudsonville ice cream.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the banana foster swirl
Start by melting the butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and cinnamon, stirring until they combine into a smooth, golden mixture. Toss in the banana slices and let them soften and caramelize for a couple of minutes. Pour in the maple syrup, lemon juice, and cream. Stir to blend, then set it aside to cool down.
Step 2: Mix the ice cream base
In a separate bowl, whisk the cream, milk, sugar, vanilla flavoring, and a pinch of salt until smooth and fully blended.
Step 3: Churn or no-churn—it’s your choice
- Using a machine? Add the base to your ice cream maker and churn until it thickens into a soft-serve consistency.
- No ice cream maker? Whip the cream until soft peaks form, then gently fold in the sweetened milk mix.
Step 4: Assemble and freeze
Spoon the ice cream into a container, adding layers of the cooled banana foster mixture as you go. Use a butter knife or spoon to swirl it in lightly. Seal the container and freeze for 4–6 hours, or until firm and ready to scoop.
This easy banana foster ice cream recipe delivers the same dreamy texture and flavor you love—no alcohol or fancy equipment needed.
Pro Tips & Variations
- Use super-ripe bananas: The more speckled, the better—they add deep flavor and natural sweetness, just like in your favorite banana foster ice cream Hudsonville blend.
- Add texture: Swirl in crushed pecans or a handful of crushed vanilla wafers for a satisfying crunch.
- Make it no-churn friendly: Use whipped cream as your base and fold in the banana mixture—no ice cream maker required.
- Flavor boost: A pinch of sea salt or a drizzle of caramel on top before freezing adds a gourmet touch.
- Double banana twist: Mix in chunks of roasted banana or even a scoop of banana ice cream for layered banana flavor.
Want it extra indulgent? Try sandwiching a scoop between soft cookies for a next-level treat.
Serving Suggestions
Scoop this creamy banana foster ice cream into bowls, cones, or even over warm brownies for an irresistible combo.
- For a sundae: Top with whipped cream, chopped nuts, and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Dessert upgrade: Pair it with banana bread or pound cake.
- Mini treats: Serve in small cups with a wafer for easy entertaining.
Craving that banana foster ice cream near me vibe? This homemade version delivers it right from your freezer—no delivery app needed.
Conclusion
Bringing this banana foster ice cream recipe to life is simpler than you think—and the payoff is huge. With just a few basic ingredients and a little love, you’ll create a frozen dessert that rivals anything from Hudsonville or Haagen-Dazs. It’s rich, comforting, and full of flavor, all without the need for alcohol or complicated steps.
So next time you spot ripe bananas on the counter, you’ll know exactly what to do: make something unforgettable.
FAQs
What flavor is banana foster ice cream?
It’s a rich blend of creamy vanilla ice cream swirled with caramelized bananas, brown sugar, and warm cinnamon. Think banana dessert meets buttery toffee.
What do bananas foster taste like?
What flavor is banana foster ice cream?
It’s a rich blend of creamy vanilla ice cream swirled with caramelized bananas, brown sugar, and warm cinnamon. Think banana dessert meets buttery toffee.
Why is it called banana foster?
The dessert was named after Richard Foster, a friend of the restaurant owner who created the dish in New Orleans during the 1950s.
Is banana foster safe for kids?
Yes—this version is made without alcohol, so it’s completely kid-friendly while still capturing that signature banana-caramel flavor.
What’s the difference between bananas foster and flambé?
Bananas foster is often flambéed in rum for flair, while flambé is a general technique of igniting alcohol in dishes. This recipe skips the fire and still brings all the flavor.
Banana Foster Ice Cream Recipe
Ingredients
For the banana foster swirl:
- 3 ripe bananas sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg optional, for warmth
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup a great rum-free substitute
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
For the ice cream base:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon non-alcoholic vanilla flavor
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a saucepan, cook sliced bananas with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, maple syrup, and cream until soft and caramelized. Let cool.
- In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker, or whip cream and fold in milk mixture for a no-churn version.
- Layer the ice cream base with banana foster sauce in a container. Swirl gently.
- Cover and freeze for 4–6 hours, or until firm.
Notes
- Fat: ~18g
- Carbs: ~35g
- Sugar: ~28g
- Protein: ~2g