Grilled Bananas

Grilled Bananas are an easy dessert that tastes much fancier than it is. Grilling fruit is a great way to enhance the natural sweetness of the fruit and helps caramelize the sugars for a sweet flavor.

The bananas are sliced in half, brushed with melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon, and grilled cut-side down until they're soft and golden.

You can top Grilled Bananas however you like! I am partial to a little drizzle of peanut butter, chocolate, and flaky sea salt. My girls love these with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt.

My husband usually adds all three. All of us love adding some crunch with chopped nuts. There are just so many good options to choose from!

Are you on a grilling fruit kick? Try these Grilled Pears, Grilled Pineapple, and Grilled Apples.

What if I don't have a grill?

You can grill bananas without a grill by using a cast iron skillet or grill pan on the stovetop. Slice the bananas in half lengthwise, leave the peel on if you want structure, and cook them cut-side down over medium heat until caramelized and golden.

Other options:

• Broiler: Place bananas cut-side up on a baking sheet and broil for 2–4 minutes until browned and bubbly.
• Air fryer: Cook at 375°F for 6–8 minutes, checking halfway.
• Oven: Bake at 400°F for about 10–12 minutes until soft and lightly browned.

Can I grill bananas wrapped in foil?

Another popular way to cook bananas on the grill is wrapped in foil, especially for camping. These are also delicious but lack this version's caramelization and grill marks. To make these bananas in foil packs, start by slicing the bananas down the center, but make sure not to cut all the way through the peel. You want to make banana boats.

Brush with the butter and sugar mixture, adding any other toppings you like. Many people like to make "campfire bananas," which have chocolate chips and marshmallows, kind of like s'mores. After adding your toppings or leaving them plain, wrap the bananas in foil, leaving the top slightly open. Place on the grill and cook for 10 minutes until the bananas soften.

Grilled Banana Dessert Topping Ideas

This is where these grilled bananas get fun. It's all about the toppings. Here are some favorites, but get as creative as you like:

• Chocolate: Bananas and chocolate are an obvious pair, so grab some chocolate sauce or melt your favorite chocolate and drizzle it right on top. No one would blame you for trying caramel sauce as well!
• Peanut butter: Nut butter is another natural choice. To make it easier to drizzle, place it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds first.
• Sea salt: Flaky sea salt is a great way to bring out the flavor and create that sweet and salty flavor everyone loves.
• Ice cream: Grab a scoop of vanilla ice cream, frozen yogurt, or Greek yogurt. They are perfect for an ice cream sundae!
• S'mores: Use s'mores to inspire and top the warm bananas with a chocolate drizzle, mini marshmallows, and crumbled graham crackers.
• Nutty: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or peanuts for extra crunch.
• Strawberry sauce and crushed pineapple: Kind of like making a BBQ banana split!
• Fresh fruit: Top your grilled bananas with fresh blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a vibrant twist.
• Whipped cream: A dollop or two of whipped cream never hurt anybody, right?

How To Use Grilled Bananas

There are plenty of ways to use grilled bananas that will instantly upgrade your favorite dishes.

• As a topping: Slice or mash the grilled bananas and add them on top of Healthy French Toast or Microwave Oatmeal for a fruity flair!
• Pancakes: Swap out regular mashed banana for grilled bananas for a depth of flavor in these Banana Flax Pancakes or Banana Chocolate Chip Pancakes!
• Yogurt bowl: Make a Chunky Monkey Yogurt Bowl with grilled bananas instead of a regular sliced banana for a more intense caramel-y banana flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Here's how to keep your grilled bananas fresh so you can enjoy them again:

• To store: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• To reheat: Pop the bananas in the oven at 350 degrees F and heat for 4-5 minutes until warm.