For the Sweet, Spiced Base
4 medium ripe bananas, sliced (~3 cups) (the riper, the sweeter!)
½ cup (100g) packed brown sugar (light or dark)
¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
✅ Optional Upgrades:
1 tbsp dark rum or banana liqueur (classic flair!)
Pinch of nutmeg or cloves for warmth
Handful of raisins or chopped pecans for texture
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl:
Add banana slices, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
Gently toss until bananas are evenly coated—don’t mash them!
✅ Use a silicone spatula for easy mixing and scraping.
3. Transfer to Crockpot
Pour mixture into the prepared slow cooker.
Spread out evenly so heat distributes well.
4. Cook Low & Slow
Cover and cook on LOW for 2–3 hours, stirring once halfway through.
Bananas should be soft, saucy, and thickened—like a warm fruit compote.
✅ Don’t overcook—bananas can turn mushy if left too long.
5. Stir & Serve Warm
Give it a gentle stir before serving.
Ladle warm into bowls or over your favorite base.
Serve with:
A scoop of vanilla ice cream (hello, à la mode!)
Whipped cream or Greek yogurt
Toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch
Buttered waffles, pancakes, or pound cake slices
Pair with:
Hot coffee, spiced chai, or cold milk
✅ Leftovers? Reheat gently—the flavor deepens overnight!
You Must Know
Use ripe bananas —they break down better and taste sweeter.
Don’t skip the cinnamon —it’s essential for that “foster” warmth.
Tastes better the next day! Flavors meld and intensify.
Freezer-friendly —cool completely and freeze up to 3 months.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Reheat in microwave or skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Freeze for up to 3 months —thaw overnight before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
Butter
Coconut oil or ghee
Dairy-free or richer option
Brown sugar
Coconut sugar or maple syrup
Natural alternatives
Bananas
Apples or pears (for variation)
Works beautifully!
Vanilla extract
Almond extract (½ tsp)
For subtle nutty depth
Cinnamon
Pumpkin pie spice blend
Warm spice mix alternative
Serving Suggestions
Serve family-style right in the slow cooker insert.
Great for potlucks—bring the whole dish!
Double the batch and freeze half for future joy.
Pack in lunchboxes (reheat safely).
Cultural Context
Rooted in American Southern and Midwest comfort cooking, this recipe celebrates how simple ingredients—bananas, sugar, butter, spice—can become something deeply satisfying. Found at church suppers, creative kitchens, and Sunday feasts alike, it honors the joy of sharing food made with love.
Pro Tips
Double the recipe? Yes—perfect for feeding a crowd. Use two crockpots or work in batches.
Want more booze? Add 1–2 tbsp dark rum before cooking (adult version!).
Make ahead: Mix ingredients 1–2 days ahead. Refrigerate and cook when ready.
Label your dish: People will ask for the recipe.
Say “ready?” before serving —it’s part of the ritual.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen bananas?
A: Not recommended—they release too much water and dilute the sauce.
Q: Why did my pudding turn watery?
A: Likely undercooked or too many bananas. Cook longer or reduce liquid slightly.
Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Yes—naturally GF if all ingredients are verified.
Q: Can I make it on HIGH?
A: Yes! Cook 1–1.5 hours on HIGH, watching closely to avoid mushiness.
Q: Can I air fry leftovers?
A: No—but reheat gently in microwave (30 secs) or oven.
Allergy Information
Contains: dairy (butter).
Gluten-free option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Nut-free: This recipe is naturally nut-free (unless adding nuts).
Always check labels—especially on processed extracts and substitutes.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
Based on 6 servings (½ cup each)
Calories: 140
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 18g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 50mg
Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on brands and substitutions. Not intended as medical advice.
This pudding doesn’t shout. It simmers quietly in the crockpot, fragrant and inviting, saying everything a great treat should: “Scoop me slow. Share me. This is good.” That’s how the best ones begin—not with silence, but with bananas, butter, and someone who says, “Let’s make it together.”
