Banana Foster Vegetarian Recipe That Everyone Will Love

Updated On: October 5, 2025

Bananas foster is a classic New Orleans dessert known for its rich, buttery sauce infused with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of rum. This decadent treat is traditionally served flambéed and paired with vanilla ice cream, making it a show-stopping finale to any meal.

But what if you’re looking for a vegetarian twist on this indulgence? You’re in luck!

Our Banana Foster Vegetarian Recipe keeps all the luscious flavors while using plant-based alternatives and a few simple tweaks to make it fully vegetarian-friendly.

This recipe is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy the warm, caramelized banana goodness without compromising their dietary choices. Whether you’re serving it as a dessert for family dinners, a brunch treat, or a comforting snack, this banana foster offers a creamy, sweet, and slightly boozy delight that’s easy to make and sure to impress.

Plus, it’s a great way to use up ripe bananas in a deliciously creative way.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian banana foster recipe is a fantastic blend of tradition and wholesome ingredients, designed to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping things meat-free. Here’s why it stands out:

  • Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples like brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla, ensuring no complicated shopping list.
  • Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute dessert cravings.
  • Vegetarian-Friendly: No need for animal products or alcohol for flambé, making it suitable for all vegetarians.
  • Customizable: Easy to adapt with your favorite toppings or plant-based ice cream alternatives.
  • Versatile Serving: Delicious on its own or paired with other desserts like bread pudding or vegan ice cream.

Ingredients

  • 3 ripe bananas, peeled and sliced lengthwise
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (use vegan butter for dairy-free version)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 tbsp dark rum (optional, omit for no alcohol)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Vanilla ice cream or coconut ice cream for serving (ensure vegetarian/vegan)
  • Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for garnish)

Equipment

  • Large non-stick skillet or frying pan
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Serving bowls or plates
  • Small bowl (for mixing vanilla and orange juice)

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter: Place your skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Allow it to melt completely, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
  2. Add brown sugar and spices: Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Continue stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes syrupy, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Pour in orange juice and vanilla: Slowly add the orange juice and vanilla extract to the pan. Stir well to combine the flavors, and let it simmer for another 1-2 minutes to thicken slightly.
  4. Cook the bananas: Gently place the banana slices in the pan. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, spooning the sauce over them frequently to coat evenly without breaking the bananas apart.
  5. Optional – Add rum: If using rum, carefully pour it into the pan. You can flambé by igniting the rum with a long lighter for a dramatic effect, or simply simmer for 1 minute to let the alcohol cook off. Be cautious and keep a lid nearby just in case.
  6. Remove from heat: Once the bananas are tender and the sauce has thickened to a glossy consistency, remove the skillet from heat.
  7. Serve immediately: Spoon the banana foster with plenty of sauce over scoops of vanilla or coconut ice cream. Garnish with chopped nuts if desired for added texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

“For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of maple syrup or agave nectar along with the brown sugar.”

  • Dairy-Free Version: Use vegan butter and coconut or almond milk-based ice cream for a fully plant-based dessert.
  • Alcohol-Free: Simply omit the rum and use extra orange juice or a splash of vanilla extract for depth.
  • Nutty Crunch: Toast walnuts, pecans, or almonds and sprinkle on top for a delightful crunch.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger for a warm, spicy twist.
  • Alternative Fruits: Try substituting or mixing in sliced peaches or apples for a fruity variation.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (1/2 recipe)
Calories 320 kcal
Carbohydrates 45 g
Fiber 4 g
Sugars 30 g
Fat 14 g
Saturated Fat 7 g
Protein 2 g
Vitamin C 15% DV
Potassium 500 mg

Serving Suggestions

This banana foster is delicious on its own, but here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience:

Conclusion

This Banana Foster Vegetarian Recipe brings the soulful flavors of a classic New Orleans dessert into a vegetarian-friendly format anyone can enjoy. The caramelized banana slices bathed in a buttery, cinnamon-spiced sauce create a decadent and satisfying treat that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, this recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet, warm, and comforting notes without any fuss.

By swapping traditional ingredients for vegetarian alternatives and offering tips for customization, you don’t have to miss out on this iconic dessert. Plus, the versatility of banana foster means it can complement many other dishes, from bread puddings to ice creams, making it a valuable recipe to add to your culinary repertoire.

Give it a try today and impress your guests with a vegetarian dessert that tastes just as indulgent and luxurious as the original!

📖 Recipe Card: Banana Foster Vegetarian Recipe

Description: A delicious vegetarian twist on the classic Bananas Foster dessert, made with ripe bananas, brown sugar, and a rich cinnamon-spiced sauce. Perfect for a quick and indulgent treat.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT20M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 ripe bananas, sliced lengthwise
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 2 tablespoons dark rum (optional, can be omitted for vegetarian)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Vanilla ice cream, for serving

Instructions

  1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and orange juice; stir until sugar dissolves.
  3. Add banana slices and cook gently for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  4. If using, carefully add rum and ignite to flambé; cook until flame subsides.
  5. Stir in vanilla extract and remove from heat.
  6. Serve warm over vanilla ice cream.

Nutrition: Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 38 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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