Tropical Baked Bananas
Indulge in the tropical flavors of baked bananas, a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with a citrusy twist of orange juice, perfectly balanced with nutty almonds or tropical coconut. This recipe offers a simple yet exotic treat, making it ideal for finishing off a meal with a touch of sunshine.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
banana
4 (peeled)
orange juice
6 tablespoons (freshly squeezed preferred)
granulated sugar
2 tablespoons (none)
butter
2 tablespoons (melted)
roasted sliced almonds or desiccated coconut
2 tablespoons (toasted lightly if preferred)
whipped cream or ice cream
to taste (for serving)
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 190°C (Gas Mark 5).
2
Pour the melted butter evenly into a roasting dish to coat the bottom.
3
Peel the bananas and arrange them in the roasting dish.
4
Pour the orange juice evenly over the bananas.
5
Evenly sprinkle the granulated sugar over the bananas to add sweetness.
6
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15 minutes until the bananas are warmed through and slightly caramelized.
7
Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the roasted sliced almonds or desiccated coconut on top for added texture and flavor.
8
Serve the bananas warm, accompanied by a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of your favorite ice cream for extra indulgence.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Tropical Baked Bananas?
Tropical Baked Bananas are a sweet and exotic dessert made by baking ripe bananas with orange juice, sugar, and butter, then topping them with nuts or coconut.
What kind of bananas should I use for this recipe?
It is best to use ripe bananas that are firm enough to hold their shape during the baking process.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 190°C, which is Gas Mark 5.
How long do the bananas need to bake?
The bananas should be baked for 15 minutes until they are warmed through and slightly caramelized.
Can I substitute the orange juice?
Yes, you can use other citrus juices like lime or pineapple juice for a different tropical twist.
Is this Tropical Baked Bananas recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it uses fruit, sugar, and dairy butter.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the main ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Ensure your toppings like almonds or coconut are certified gluten-free if needed.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What toppings are recommended for this dessert?
Roasted sliced almonds or desiccated coconut are recommended for added texture and flavor.
Can I use coconut instead of almonds?
Absolutely, desiccated coconut provides a wonderful tropical flavor that pairs perfectly with the bananas.
How do I prevent the bananas from sticking to the dish?
Pour the melted butter into the roasting dish first to coat the bottom before adding the bananas.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil and serve with a dairy-free cream or ice cream.
Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, brown sugar can be used to add a richer, more molasses-like caramel flavor.
What should I serve with Tropical Baked Bananas?
They are best served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of your favorite ice cream.
Should these bananas be served hot or cold?
They are best served warm, immediately after being removed from the oven.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While best served fresh, you can peel the bananas and squeeze the juice ahead of time; however, bananas may brown if left too long.
How do I store leftover baked bananas?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days and reheat gently before serving.
What is the total preparation time?
Preparation is very quick, taking only a few minutes followed by 15 minutes of baking.
Can I use a microwave instead of an oven?
An oven is preferred for the caramelization effect, but you could use a microwave to warm them through if needed.
What type of cuisine is this recipe?
This recipe is associated with both African and North American cuisines.
Can I use honey instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, honey or maple syrup can be used as a liquid sweetener alternative to granulated sugar.
Do the bananas need to be peeled before baking?
Yes, the recipe requires the bananas to be peeled and then arranged in the roasting dish.
Can I add spices to this recipe?
Yes, adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the warm flavors of the dish.
How do I know when the bananas are finished cooking?
The bananas should look soft, slightly glazed, and be completely warmed through after 15 minutes.
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Fresh bananas are recommended as frozen bananas may become too mushy and release too much water during baking.
What type of baking dish is best?
Any standard roasting dish or oven-safe glass baking pan will work well for this recipe.
Is this a healthy dessert option?
It is fruit-based and provides nutrients from bananas, though it does contain added sugar and butter for flavor.
Can I add alcohol to the recipe?
A splash of dark rum or orange liqueur can be added with the juice for a more sophisticated, adult version.
What is 190°C converted to Fahrenheit?
190°C is approximately 375°F.
Can I use lime juice instead of orange juice?
Yes, lime juice works very well to provide a zesty, tart contrast to the sweet bananas.