Next Level Bananas Foster Recipe

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts
• 2 (ripe or slightly underripe) small bananas
• 1 1/2 tablespoons chocolate-hazelnut spread
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or extract
• 1/4 cup spiced rum
• 2 scoops ice cream, dulce de leche or preferred flavor

Instructions

1. 1

   In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, toast the hazelnuts until golden and fragrant.

2. 2

   Transfer the nuts to a plate, and wipe out the saucepan.

3. 3

   Peel and slice the bananas in half lengthwise.

4. 4

   Prepare two plates, each with a swipe of chocolate hazelnut spread.

5. 5

   In the same saucepan, heat butter, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla until the butter has melted, stirring.

6. 6

   Continue to cook over medium-low heat until bubbling and slightly thickened, about 1 minute.

7. 7

   Add the halved bananas, cut side down.

8. 8

   Cook for 30 seconds undisturbed, then flip the bananas and cook an additional 30 seconds.

9. 9

   Add rum to the pan, then tilt the pan toward the flame, or use a blowtorch to ignite it.

10. 10

    Stir in the optional zest if using, then spoon the bananas onto the prepared plates.

11. 11

    Finish each plate with a scoop of ice cream, toasted hazelnuts, and a generous spoon of the caramelized sauce left in the saucepan.

12. 12

    Serve immediately.