New Orleans Style Bananas are a delicious blend of flavors and textures that bring a taste of the South to your breakfast table. In this recipe, we’ll explore the delightful fusion of oatmeal and the iconic Bananas Foster, which is known for its rich caramel sauce and flambéed bananas. This comforting dish not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul, making it a perfect start to your day.

Why You’ll Love This New Orleans Style Bananas

This New Orleans Style Bananas recipe is a delightful twist on the traditional breakfast fare. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

Combines the classic flavors of a Bananas Foster recipe with nutritious oatmeal.
Easy to prepare, making it a perfect easy Bananas Foster recipe at home.
Rich in flavor with a Southern-style twist, perfect for any breakfast lover.
Offers a unique way to enjoy bananas, making it a unique banana dessert idea.
Versatile enough to be served as a breakfast or a dessert.
Infused with the warmth of spices, it’s a classic Southern-style bananas dessert.
Contains simple ingredients that you likely already have at home.
Creates a comforting dish that embodies the spirit of New Orleans cuisine (Cuisine: American).

Ingredients for New Orleans Style Bananas

Gather these items:

1 medium banana, mashed
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 pinch nutmeg
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1.5 cups unsweetened milk of choice
1.5 cups water
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup Bob’s Red Mill Old Fashioned Oats
1 medium banana, sliced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 pinch kosher salt
1 pinch nutmeg
chopped toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)

How to Make New Orleans Style Bananas Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a small bowl, mash 1 medium banana until smooth.
Step 2: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Stir in 2 tablespoons of dark brown sugar until fully dissolved.
Step 3: Add the mashed banana, cinnamon, nutmeg, and kosher salt to the saucepan, cooking for 1 minute while stirring constantly.
Step 4: Pour in 1 ½ cups of unsweetened milk, 1 ½ cups of water, and 1 cup of old-fashioned oats. Bring to a boil for 1 minute, then reduce heat and simmer for 7-10 minutes.
Step 5: While the oats are simmering, slice another medium banana.
Step 6: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Stir in 2 tablespoons of dark brown sugar until dissolved to create your caramel sauce.
Step 7: Mix in ¼ cup of maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, a dash of cinnamon, kosher salt, and nutmeg. Bring to a gentle boil.
Step 8: Carefully add the sliced bananas to the skillet, cooking for 1 minute undisturbed, then turn and cook for another minute until caramelized.
Step 9: Spoon the cooked oatmeal into bowls and top with the caramelized bananas.
Step 10: Sprinkle with toasted pecans if desired and serve warm.

Pro Tips for the Perfect New Orleans Style Bananas

Keep these in mind:

Use ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor.
Stir the oatmeal frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Experiment with different toppings like whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert.
For a more indulgent flavor, consider flambéing the bananas for a traditional touch.
This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for a wide range of diets (Diet: Vegetarian).

Best Ways to Serve New Orleans Style Bananas

Here are a few ideas:

Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness.
Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream for a delightful dessert.
Add fresh berries or a sprinkle of coconut for extra flavor and texture.

How to Store and Reheat New Orleans Style Bananas

To store, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. This makes it a great meal prep option!

Frequently Asked Questions About New Orleans Style Bananas

What’s the secret to perfect New Orleans Style Bananas?

The secret lies in using perfectly ripe bananas and ensuring the caramel sauce is cooked to a golden brown. This enhances the flavor and gives the dish that classic Southern-style bananas dessert appeal.

Can I make New Orleans Style Bananas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the oatmeal and the caramelized bananas separately. Store them in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve. This makes it an excellent easy Bananas Foster recipe at home.

How do I avoid common mistakes with New Orleans Style Bananas?

To avoid soggy oats, be careful not to overcook them. Keep an eye on the heat level and stir occasionally for even cooking. Following the steps to make Bananas Foster will ensure the best results!

Variations of New Orleans Style Bananas You Can Try

Here are some fun twists:

Substitute oats with quinoa for a gluten-free version.
Add a splash of rum to the caramel sauce for an authentic New Orleans dessert with rum and bananas.
Incorporate chocolate chips for a decadent treat.
Use different nuts like almonds or pistachios for variety.