Nutty Banana from Swensen's features creamy banana slices, crunchy roasted peanuts, and rich chocolate sauce, layered over smooth vanilla ice cream and topped with whipped cream for a delightful combination of sweet, nutty, and creamy flavors.
Equipments
- Ice cream scoop
- Parfait glass or dessert bowl
- Spoon (for layering and serving)
- Knife (for slicing banana)
- Cutting board
- Squeeze bottle or spoon (for chocolate sauce)
- Whisk or electric mixer (for whipped cream, if homemade)
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 pint vanilla ice cream
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
- 1/2 cup chocolate sauce
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for whipped cream)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)
Ripe bananas should be firm yet soft enough to slice easily, ensuring the texture complements the creamy ice cream without becoming mushy. Roasted peanuts add a crunchy contrast, so use freshly roasted or well-preserved nuts to maintain their crunch. For the chocolate sauce, a smooth, rich variety enhances the overall flavor profile, but you can adjust sweetness based on your preference. Homemade whipped cream requires heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, which you should whip until soft peaks form for the perfect topping. Your Nutty Banana from Swensen's copycat menu will capture the indulgent, harmonious blend of sweet, nutty, and creamy flavors that make the original dessert so beloved.
Instructions
- Chill parfait glass or dessert bowl in freezer.
- Slice bananas using knife and cutting board.
- Whip heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form (using whisk or electric mixer).
- Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream in the bottom of the chilled glass/bowl.
- Layer banana slices over the ice cream.
- Drizzle chocolate sauce over bananas.
- Sprinkle roasted peanuts on top.
- Repeat layers if desired: ice cream, banana, chocolate sauce, and peanuts.
- Top final layer with generous whipped cream.
- Drizzle additional chocolate sauce over whipped cream.
- Sprinkle extra roasted peanuts on top.
- Serve immediately with a spoon.
Substitution
Nutty Banana from Swensen's copycat menu combines creamy banana slices, crunchy roasted peanuts, and rich chocolate sauce layered over smooth vanilla ice cream, topped with fluffy whipped cream for a perfect balance of textures and flavors. If roasted peanuts are unavailable, toasted almonds or cashews can provide a similar crunch and nuttiness. You can swap chocolate sauce with caramel or butterscotch for a different sweetness profile that complements the banana. When fresh bananas are not fully ripe, slightly warming them can enhance their sweetness and softness before slicing. Homemade whipped cream can be replaced with store-bought for convenience, though freshly whipped cream offers a lighter texture.
Tips
Ensure your bananas are ripe but firm to prevent mushy texture when slicing. Use chilled parfait glasses to keep the dessert cold longer and maintain the ice cream's shape. When whipping cream, beat until stiff peaks form to achieve the ideal fluffy consistency for topping. Layer ingredients gently to preserve distinct flavors and textures in each bite.
Nutritions
Nutty Banana from Swensen's delivers a mix of nutrients, combining the natural potassium and fiber from ripe bananas with protein and healthy fats found in roasted peanuts. The vanilla ice cream and whipped cream contribute significant calories mainly from sugars and saturated fats, while the chocolate sauce adds antioxidants along with extra sugars. Your choice of portion size can impact the overall calorie intake, making moderation key to enjoying this dessert without excessive indulgence. Including this treat occasionally fits well within a balanced diet, providing both energy and flavor satisfaction.
Storage
Store any leftover Nutty Banana dessert in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain the vanilla ice cream's texture and prevent fruit from browning. To keep your whipped cream fresh, store it separately in the refrigerator in a sealed container and add it just before serving. Ensure the roasted peanuts and chocolate sauce are stored in cool, dry places to preserve their crunch and flavor for your next treat.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the roasted peanuts with toasted almonds or walnuts for a different nutty flavor and texture. For a healthier twist, swap vanilla ice cream with frozen Greek yogurt or banana "nice cream" made from blended frozen bananas. Instead of chocolate sauce, try caramel or honey drizzle to enhance sweetness while introducing a distinct taste profile. To save time, use store-bought whipped cream, but homemade whipped cream offers a fresher, richer finish to your Nutty Banana dessert.
Allergies
Swensen's Nutty Banana contains roasted peanuts, which are a common allergen that can cause severe reactions in individuals with nut allergies. The dessert also includes vanilla ice cream and whipped cream, both dairy products that may affect those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. Be cautious if you have any nut or dairy sensitivities when ordering or preparing this treat.
Why this recipe?
Swensen's Nutty Banana menu is beloved for its rich combination of creamy banana slices, crunchy nuts, and smooth ice cream that creates a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. You get a delightful balance of sweetness and nuttiness that satisfies both fruit lovers and dessert enthusiasts. The fresh ingredients and signature Swensen's dressing add an authentic taste that makes this dessert irresistible. Replicating this menu at home offers a unique opportunity to enjoy a classic favorite while customizing it to your palate.