The classic Italian dessert, Banana Tiramisu, has been delighting guests for decades. Mascarpone-based layers are sandwiched between fluffy layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers. To give it a unique twist, ripe bananas are added. This creates a sweet and savory flavor. You can create an unforgettable dessert with ripe bananas.
In this article, we’ll explore the history of Tiramisu. We’ll also provide step-by-step instructions on how to make it. Lastly, we’ll share ideas on how to serve your banana Tiramisu attractively. Unlock the secrets of this Italian delicacy now!
Ingredients
This Ripe Banana Tiramisu is an exciting revamp of a classic Italian dessert. The classic recipe needs Ladyfingers, espresso, cream and mascarpone cheese. But we are adding ripe bananas too – plus, some yummy chopped hazelnuts for crunch!
Here’s what you need for this yummy treat:
Biscuits
Savoiardi (ladyfingers) are the base of a top-notch tiramisu. These sponge biscuits, made with flour, egg yolks, sugar and particular leavening agents, give an ideal consistency to the classic dessert. They soak up liqueurs and sweetness, keeping the custard and cream together. Plus, they lend flavor and texture.
In this recipe, you’ll use enough savoiardi biscuits to cover the pan twice.
Cream
To make the cream for this Ripe Banana Tiramisu, you will need 3 cups of heavy cream and 6 ounces of white chocolate. Heat the cream in a small saucepan until it is just at a simmer. Remove from heat. Add the white chocolate pieces and stir until melted. Cool slightly. Beat with an electric mixer until fluffy peaks form. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Chill mixture overnight or up to 24 hours. Place back into bowl and beat again with electric mixer on low speed. It should thicken enough to hold its shape for assembly. Proceed according to recipe for assembly of Ripe Banana Tiramisu!
Mascarpone
Mascarpone is a delicious Italian cheese used in both sweet and savory recipes. It’s creamy and has a rich flavor. For the best results in banana tiramisu, make sure to select the highest quality available. Look for “imported” or “Italian” mascarpone. If these aren’t accessible, opt for one made with cream instead of whole milk. Fresh mascarpone is ideal. Avoid frozen or packaged varieties.
When adding it to the recipe, mix lightly. Excessive stirring can make the cheese break down, resulting in an undesirable consistency.
Ripe Bananas
For a delicious, moist banana tiramisu, ripe bananas are essential. Look for yellow fruits with a few brown spots, with a sweet smell. If the banana is pale and smells unripe, it won’t give much flavor. Bananas with dark spots are usually fully ripe. Perfect for an intensely sweet, creamy dessert.
They add richness of flavor, sweetness, and creaminess. These are key elements for making this unique version of traditional Italian tiramisu.
Cocoa Powder
Cocoa powder is a must for a traditional tiramisu. Unsweetened, bitter cocoa powder is the best choice – it helps balance out the sweetness of other ingredients like sugar or ripe bananas. Sprinkle some cocoa powder near the end of layering the ingredients. This adds to the unique flavor profile of tiramisu.
For a stronger flavor, you can use dark cocoa powder. For a tastier tiramisu, use 1/2 cup (50g) of cocoa powder.
Rum
Rum is an essential part of the classic tiramisu. It offers a zesty, warm taste that boosts the other flavors. In this inventive version, rum is paired with banana liqueur to create a sweet, spicy dessert.
When picking your rum, choose one with a high alcohol content – the higher the alcohol, the richer the flavor.
Preparation
Tiramisu is Italy’s classic dessert. To give it a yummy twist, ripe bananas are added! Ready to make this sweet treat? Check out the ingredients and techniques needed:
Making the Cream
Making the cream is a time-consuming part of this recipe. But it’s worth it!
- Begin by separating seven egg yolks from the whites into a bowl.
- In a double boiler, combine 8 ounces mascarpone cheese with 1/4 cup heavy cream. Stir until smooth and melty.
- In a stand mixer (or use hand held beaters), whip egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add 1 cup sugar and increase speed to medium-high until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold half the egg whites into the mascarpone mixture.
- Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Finally, fold in remaining egg whites until combined – 3-4 minutes total. Don’t over mix.
- Keep cream covered in an airtight container. Store in the fridge. Prepare bananas and other layers for assembly!
Assembling the Tiramisu
Gather all ingredients: ripe bananas, mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, sugar, cocoa powder, espresso or strong coffee, ladyfingers, and bitter almond extract (optional).
Line the bottom and sides of a 9×12 inch glass baking dish with one layer of ladyfingers.
In a medium bowl, mix cream and sugar until combined.
In another large bowl with an electric mixer, beat together Mascarpone cheese and extract until light and creamy.
Mix cream mixture to Mascarpone cheese with mixer on low setting until just combined.
Peel and slice bananas into slices.
Prepare espresso or strong coffee.
Mix together 1 tablespoon cocoa powder with melted chocolate chips.
Add half of the Mascarpone cheese mixture over top of the ladyfinger layer in the glass baking dish. Spread evenly with an offset spatula.
Place banana slices over top of the mascarpone cheese layer.
Spread remaining half of Mascarpone mixture over bananas layer.
Add second layer of lady fingers on top to completely cover surface area.
Pour cooled espresso over ladyfinger filled Tiramisu.
Sift cocoa/chocolate mixture onto top making sure it covers entire surface evenly.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Be sure that everything is layered properly so each bite is filled with deliciousness!
Topping the Tiramisu
Whisk one cup of cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until it forms stiff peaks.
Toast walnuts in an oven or toaster oven on low heat until lightly golden brown and crispy. Chop into small pieces when cooled.
Peel and dice a banana into cubes.
Assemble tiramisu and top with whipped cream, walnut pieces and diced banana pieces.
Delight in!
Serving Suggestions
Ripe banana tiramisu is a dessert to make any gathering special. Its unique flavor will make your taste buds dance! Anytime of day, this Italian treat is sure to be a hit. Here’s some creative ideas to serve it up:
- Use shot glasses for single portions.
- Sprinkle coconut shavings and chopped nuts on top.
- Garnish with fresh banana slices and drizzle chocolate syrup.
- Arrange banana slices on the side for a decorative touch.
- Substitute ricotta cheese for the mascarpone and reduce sugar.
- Serve with yogurt or eggs for breakfast.
Conclusion
Ripe banana tiramisu is a special twist on the traditional Italian dessert. Yet it still has the unique and unforgettable blend of flavors that make tiramisu so popular. Replacing most of the sugary filling with ripe banana puree adds flavor and texture. It’s an irresistible option for parties or special occasions.
Every bite has creamy mascarpone, fluffy ladyfingers, and rich ripe bananas. Making a moist and flavorful cake. Guaranteed to wow, this delectable version of an Italian classic will have your guests wanting more!
