Creamy Banana Caramel Cups are a decadent, sweet treat that combines the rich flavor of caramel with the natural sweetness of bananas, all wrapped up in a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth filling. These are perfect for a quick dessert or a fun snack!
Creamy Banana Caramel Cups Recipe
Ingredients:
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For the caramel sauce:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
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For the banana filling:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (whipped)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional for added sweetness)
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For the cups:
- 1 package of mini graham cracker crusts (or use muffin tin liners)
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (for drizzling, optional)
Instructions:
1. Make the Caramel Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the brown sugar and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Slowly add the heavy cream while stirring to prevent the mixture from bubbling up.
- Let the mixture simmer for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Set the caramel aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Banana Filling:
- In a medium bowl, mash the bananas until smooth with a fork or potato masher. If you like a smoother filling, you can blend the bananas using a hand blender.
- In another small bowl, whip the heavy cream with the vanilla extract and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. You can do this with a hand mixer or stand mixer.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mashed bananas, creating a light and creamy banana mixture. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream too much.
3. Assemble the Cups:
- Spoon a layer of the mashed banana filling into each mini graham cracker crust, about halfway full.
- Next, drizzle a generous spoonful of the caramel sauce over the banana layer.
- If you’re using white chocolate chips, melt them in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the caramel layer for a little extra sweetness and a beautiful finish.
4. Chill the Cups:
- Place the assembled cups in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to let the layers set and chill.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Once chilled, serve the banana caramel cups cold and enjoy the creamy, sweet, and slightly salty flavor combination.
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for extra richness.
- Chopped nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch and complementary flavor.
- Caramel drizzle: Add more caramel sauce on top for an extra indulgent finish.
These banana caramel cups are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight dessert or something special for a party! They’re sweet, creamy, and packed with flavor that everyone will love!