Cream Cheese Bananas Celeste

Cream Cheese Bananas Celeste Recipe - Caribbean Vegetarian Food

Region / culture: Caribbean | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Cream Cheese Bananas Celeste is a delicious and indulgent dessert that combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with the natural sweetness of bananas. This recipe is perfect for those who love a sweet treat that is both easy to make and impressive to serve.

History

Cream Cheese Bananas Celeste is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. The combination of cream cheese and bananas has long been a favorite among those who appreciate the rich and creamy texture of cream cheese paired with the sweet and slightly tangy flavor of bananas.

Ingredients

3 ripe but firm bananas, peeled and cut in half lengthwise, then halved again
1 (3 oz (85 g)) package of softened cream cheese
2 tbsp of brown sugar
2 tbsp of whipping cream
1 tbsp of dark rum
0.13 tsp of cinnamon

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine cream cheese, brown sugar, whipping cream, rum, and cinnamon. Beat on high speed until well mixed.
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
Lightly grease a baking dish.
Place half of the bananas in the greased baking dish.
Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the bananas.
Layer the remaining bananas on top of the cream cheese mixture.
Spread the remaining cream cheese mixture over the bananas.
Sprinkle a little more cinnamon on top.
Bake, uncovered, at 325°F for about 20 minutes, or until the cream cheese is hot and slightly bubbly.
(Note: Spreading the cream cheese mixture on the bananas may be a little challenging, but the end result is worth it!)

Variations

For a healthier version, you can use low-fat cream cheese and reduce the amount of brown sugar used.
You can also add chopped nuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use ripe but firm bananas for this recipe to ensure that they hold their shape during baking.

- Be sure to beat the cream cheese mixture well to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- If you prefer a stronger rum flavor, you can add more rum to the cream cheese mixture.

- Serve the Cream Cheese Bananas Celeste warm for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Cream Cheese Bananas Celeste can be served on its own as a dessert, or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. It can also be served with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Beating the cream cheese mixture well is key to achieving a smooth and creamy texture.

- Baking the Cream Cheese Bananas Celeste at a lower temperature ensures that the cream cheese mixture heats through without burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have dark rum, you can use rum extract or omit it altogether.

- You can also use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cream cheese mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to assemble and bake the dessert.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Cream Cheese Bananas Celeste in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. - Garnish with a sprig of mint or a dusting of powdered sugar for a finishing touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Cream Cheese Bananas Celeste pairs well with a glass of dessert wine or a cup of coffee for a satisfying end to a meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- To reheat, simply place the dessert in the oven at 325°F for a few minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

200 per serving

Carbohydrates

23g per serving

Fats

12g per serving

Proteins

2g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of Vitamin C and Vitamin A.

Alergens

Contains dairy (cream cheese) and nuts (if using as a topping)

Summary

Cream Cheese Bananas Celeste is a decadent dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides essential vitamins and minerals. It is a delicious treat that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Cream Cheese Bananas Celeste is a delightful dessert that combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with the natural sweetness of bananas. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for those who enjoy a sweet treat that is both comforting and indulgent.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of awe. It was a warm summer day, and I had been invited to a friend's house for a small gathering. As I walked into the kitchen, the sweet aroma of bananas and cream cheese filled the air, making my mouth water.

My friend's mother, Mrs. Jenkins, was busy at the stove, carefully mixing the ingredients for what she called "Cream Cheese Bananas Celeste." I watched in amazement as she sliced the bananas, stuffed them with a creamy mixture, and then gently baked them to perfection.

I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this delectable dish. Mrs. Jenkins kindly shared her recipe with me, and from that day on, it became one of my go-to desserts for special occasions.

But the story of how I came to learn this recipe goes back even further than that day at Mrs. Jenkins' house. It all started with my own grandmother, who was a master in the kitchen and passed down her love of cooking to me.

Growing up, I spent countless hours by her side, watching and helping as she whipped up meals that were not only delicious but also made with love. She taught me the importance of using fresh, quality ingredients and the joy that comes from sharing a homemade meal with loved ones.

One day, while flipping through an old cookbook that had been passed down through generations, I stumbled upon a recipe for cream cheese-stuffed bananas. The recipe was simple yet elegant, and I knew it was something I had to try.

I showed the recipe to my grandmother, and she smiled approvingly. "Ah, Cream Cheese Bananas Celeste," she said, her eyes twinkling with nostalgia. "I remember making these for your grandfather when we were just newlyweds. It was his favorite dessert."

My grandmother went on to explain that the recipe had been given to her by a dear friend many years ago. She had made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding her own special touch to make it truly her own.

With my grandmother's guidance, I set out to make Cream Cheese Bananas Celeste for the first time. I carefully followed her instructions, slicing the bananas, mixing the cream cheese filling, and baking the dish until it was golden and bubbly.

As I took my first bite of the creamy, sweet dessert, I was transported back to my grandmother's kitchen, surrounded by the warmth and love that always filled the room. It was a moment I would never forget.

Over the years, I have continued to make Cream Cheese Bananas Celeste for my family and friends, always with a sense of pride and joy. Each time I serve the dish, I am reminded of the rich culinary heritage that has been passed down to me, from my grandmother to Mrs. Jenkins and beyond.

And so, the story of how I learned to make Cream Cheese Bananas Celeste is not just a tale of a delicious dessert, but a tribute to the love and traditions that have shaped me into the cook I am today. I will always be grateful for the lessons I have learned in the kitchen, and the memories that continue to inspire me every time I cook.