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Ingredients
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Fruit
Spread & Filling
Toppings (optional)
Serving & Assembly
Method
Prepare ingredients
- 1
Select and peel
Choose 2 ripe but still firm bananas (not overly brown). Peel and set on a cutting board.
- 2
Warm Nutella
Spoon the Nutella into a microwave-safe bowl. Warm for 10-15 seconds in the microwave, stir and repeat if necessary until it reaches a pourable consistency but is not hot (about 20–30 seconds total depending on microwave). If you prefer, stir the Nutella with the optional cream cheese to create a slightly tangier, creamier filling and warm together for 10 seconds to combine.
Assemble
- 3
Halve or slice bananas
Decide how you want to serve: for banana boats, slice each banana lengthwise down the middle (do not cut all the way through if you want halves to hold together). For banana slices, cut crosswise into 1/2-inch (1–1.5 cm) rounds. Place prepared wax/parchment sheets on your work surface.
- 4
Spread Nutella
Using a spoon or small spatula, dollop about 2 tablespoons of warmed Nutella onto each banana half (or about 1 tablespoon on each banana round). If you used cream cheese, ensure the mixture is evenly spread. For boats, gently open the banana halves and spread Nutella into the slit.
- 5
Add toppings
Sprinkle chopped toasted hazelnuts over the Nutella-topped bananas for crunch. Add a light dusting of powdered sugar and a tiny pinch of finely crushed sea salt to enhance flavor.
- 6
Secure for serving (optional)
If making banana boats for pick-up eating, insert a toothpick through each banana end to hold halves together while serving. Place each finished banana on a sheet of wax/parchment for easy handling.
Serve & store
- 7
Serve immediately so the banana remains firm and the Nutella is slightly warm. If you need to store, wrap individually in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours; note that the banana will brown and soften.