Bananas Foster Waffle Recipe

Prep dry ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.

Mix wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs then whisk in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Small lumps are okay — do not overmix. Let the batter rest 5–10 minutes while you preheat the waffle iron.

Prepare fruit

Peel the bananas and cut them in half lengthwise, then cut each half in half crosswise so you have quarters (or slice into 1/2" diagonal slices if preferred to fit waffles). Lightly toss with the teaspoon of lemon juice to prevent browning and set aside.

Make caramel sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter. Add the packed light brown sugar and stir until dissolved and bubbling, about 2–3 minutes. Add the ground cinnamon and kosher salt and stir to combine.

Cook bananas in sauce

Carefully add the prepared banana pieces to the skillet in a single layer, spooning sauce over them. Cook 1–2 minutes per side, just until warmed through and slightly caramelized — do not overcook or the bananas will become mushy.

Flambé (optional)

Remove the skillet from heat briefly, then carefully add the dark rum and optional banana liqueur. Return to low heat and, if you’re comfortable and it’s safe to do so, ignite the alcohol with a long match or lighter (stand back). Allow flames to subside naturally, stirring gently to coat bananas with the sauce. If you prefer not to flambé, simmer the sauce for 30–60 seconds to cook off some alcohol instead.

Taste and adjust: Stir in additional pinch of salt or a squeeze more lemon if needed. Keep warm on the lowest heat while you cook waffles.

Preheat waffle iron

Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer instructions and lightly brush with the optional tablespoon of melted butter or spray with nonstick spray.

Cook waffles: For each waffle, pour an appropriate amount of batter (usually 1/2 to 3/4 cup depending on your iron) onto the preheated iron and cook until golden and crisp, about 3–5 minutes, until steam reduces and waffle is set. Transfer cooked waffles to a warm oven (200°F/95°C) on a rack so bottoms stay crisp while you finish cooking remaining waffles.

Whip cream: While waffles cook, place the heavy cream in a chilled bowl with powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Whip with a hand mixer or whisk to soft peaks (about 2–4 minutes). Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Assemble: Place a waffle on each plate. Spoon a generous portion of warm Bananas Foster sauce and caramelized bananas over the waffle. Top with a dollop of whipped cream, sprinkle with toasted chopped pecans if using, and finish with a light pinch of flaky sea salt.

Serve immediately while waffles and sauce are warm.