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Banana Split Recipe

4.6 from 129 reviews

A classic Banana Split recipe featuring luscious sliced bananas paired with scoops of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream, topped with homemade strawberry or pineapple fruit syrup, rich hot fudge sauce, and fluffy banana-infused whipped cream. Garnished with colorful rainbow sprinkles, crunchy walnuts, and maraschino cherries for a delightful and indulgent dessert experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruit 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 Fruit Syrup: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the strawberries or pineapple, granulated sugar, balsamic vinegar or fresh lime juice, and 1 tablespoon water. Bring to a simmer, cooking and mashing occasionally until the fruit is completely broken down, about 8 to 10 minutes.
  2. Strain and Thicken Syrup: Strain the cooked fruit to separate the syrup, reserving the solids for another use. Return the syrup to the saucepan. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and the remaining 1 tablespoon water, then whisk this mixture into the syrup. For pineapple syrup, add cinnamon and cayenne pepper. Return to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the syrup thickens to your liking, about 2 to 3 minutes. Let cool.
  3. Make Hot Fudge Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, whisk together granulated sugar, whole milk, and a pinch of kosher salt until the sugar dissolves. Simmer until bubbling begins around the edges, approximately 5 to 6 minutes.
  4. Add Cocoa and Chocolate: Reduce heat to low and whisk in the cocoa powder until fully incorporated with no lumps. Remove the pan from heat, then stir in the chopped unsweetened chocolate until melted and smooth. Let the mixture cool for 3 minutes.
  5. Incorporate Butter: Add the butter cubes one at a time, stirring and allowing each piece to melt before adding the next. Set aside until ready to serve.
  6. Make Banana Whipped Cream: Using an electric mixer on medium-high speed or a stand mixer with whisk attachment, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl until stiff peaks form.
  7. Fold in Mashed Banana: In a small bowl, mash one banana thoroughly with a fork until there are no chunks remaining. Gently fold the mashed banana into the whipped cream, then transfer the mixture into a piping bag fitted with a star tip for serving.
  8. Assemble Banana Splits: Slice the remaining 4 bananas in half lengthwise. Arrange the banana halves in individual sundae bowls or dishes. Place three scoops of vanilla, chocolate, and/or strawberry ice cream between the banana slices.
  9. Top and Garnish: Pipe the banana whipped cream over the ice cream scoops. Drizzle with the prepared fruit syrup and hot fudge sauce. Finish by sprinkling rainbow sprinkles, chopped walnuts, and placing maraschino cherries on top for a colorful, crunchy, and sweet finish.

Notes

  • The fruit syrup can be made up to 3 weeks in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • The hot fudge sauce can also be prepared up to 3 weeks ahead and refrigerated in an airtight container.
  • Use fresh bananas for best flavor and texture in whipped cream and garnish.
  • Adjust the amount of cinnamon and cayenne in pineapple syrup according to your heat preference.
  • For variety, substitute ice cream flavors to suit individual tastes.

Keywords: Banana Split, Classic Dessert, Ice Cream Sundae, Homemade Fruit Syrup, Hot Fudge Sauce, Whipped Cream, Summer Dessert