Caramelized Banana Butterscotch Parfait

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This indulgent parfait is a delightful combination of rich butterscotch pastry cream, caramelized bananas, and crunchy granola. It offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a decadent treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a special dessert or a luxurious snack, this parfait is sure to impress!

Ingredients:

For the Butterscotch Pastry Cream:

  • 2 cups milk
  • 3 egg yolks
  • 1 whole egg
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla bean paste (or 2 tsp vanilla extract)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 4 tbsp cornstarch

For the Caramelized Banana Topping:

  • 3 bananas, sliced
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1/8 cup water
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar

For the Parfait Assembly:

  • 2 cups granola (your choice of flavor)

Instructions:

  1. Make the Butterscotch Pastry Cream:
    • In a saucepan, bring the milk and vanilla to a boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure the milk doesn’t scorch.
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, whole egg, brown sugar, salt, and cornstarch until smooth and well combined.
    • Once the milk reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low. Gradually whisk a spoonful of hot milk into the egg mixture to temper the eggs, then slowly whisk the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the hot milk. Continue whisking constantly to avoid curdling.
    • Keep whisking until the mixture thickens to a pastry cream consistency (about 3-5 minutes).
    • Pour the pastry cream into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (making sure the wrap touches the surface of the cream to prevent a skin from forming), and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
  2. Caramelize the Bananas:
    • In a sauté pan over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the water and brown sugar, stirring occasionally until the mixture becomes bubbly and begins to thicken (about 3 minutes).
    • Add the banana slices and gently toss them in the caramel until golden brown and slightly softened (about 5 minutes). Be careful not to overcook the bananas.
    • Once caramelized, remove the bananas from the heat and set them aside to cool slightly.
  3. Assemble the Parfait:
    • In individual serving glasses or bowls, start by layering a spoonful of granola at the bottom. Press it down slightly to create a base.
    • Add a generous layer of butterscotch pastry cream on top of the granola.
    • Follow with a layer of the caramelized bananas, ensuring the bananas are spread evenly over the cream.
    • Repeat the layers, starting with granola, then pastry cream, and finishing with a final layer of caramelized bananas on top.
  4. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Refrigerate the parfaits for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
    • Serve chilled and enjoy this decadent, layered dessert!

Notes:

  • Granola Variations: You can use any granola of your choice for different textures and flavors. A nutty or fruity granola pairs wonderfully with the butterscotch and bananas.
  • Banana Tip: To ensure your bananas caramelize perfectly, use ripe but firm bananas. Overripe bananas may become too mushy during caramelization.
  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the butterscotch pastry cream and caramelized bananas in advance, storing them in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the parfaits.

This Caramelized Banana Butterscotch Parfait is a showstopper that combines creamy, caramel, and crunchy elements in every bite. Perfect for a special treat or a sophisticated dessert for guests!

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