Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy making these dessert tacos because they’re quick, crowd-pleasing, and don’t require any baking. The combination of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and salty is just right. They’re also totally customizable, so I can play with different toppings or even make a DIY dessert taco bar. Whether I’m entertaining guests or treating myself, these always feel like a little celebration in each bite.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
6 crispy taco shells
3 ripe bananas, sliced
1 cup whipped cream
½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or peanuts)
½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Directions
Prep the shells: I start with store-bought crispy taco shells or make my own using baked flour tortillas shaped over a muffin tin or taco rack until golden and crisp.
Fill the tacos: I layer each taco shell with a generous spoonful of whipped cream, then add sliced bananas.
Add the crunch: I sprinkle chopped nuts over the bananas for a bit of texture and contrast.
Drizzle with caramel: I finish each taco with a generous drizzle of caramel sauce. If the caramel is too thick, I warm it slightly to make it easier to pour.
Serve: I serve the tacos immediately while the shells are still crisp. They’re best enjoyed fresh.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 6 dessert tacos.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (unless making your own shells)
Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
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Chocolate drizzle: I sometimes drizzle melted chocolate or chocolate syrup along with the caramel for an extra-decadent touch.
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Nut-free version: I leave out the nuts or replace them with crushed cookies or graham crackers for crunch without allergens.
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Add ice cream: A small scoop of vanilla or banana ice cream turns these tacos into a show-stopping treat.
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Coconut twist: I sprinkle shredded toasted coconut on top for a tropical flavor.
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Salted caramel: I use a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the caramel to balance the sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
These are best assembled and served fresh to keep the taco shells crisp. If I need to prep ahead, I slice the bananas and whip the cream in advance, then store everything separately and assemble just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use soft taco shells instead?
I prefer crispy shells for contrast, but I’ve used soft shells and toasted them lightly for a chewy alternative.
What kind of nuts work best?
I usually go with walnuts or pecans, but roasted peanuts or even crushed almonds are delicious too.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, I use a dairy-free whipped topping and make or buy a vegan caramel sauce for an easy plant-based version.
How do I keep the bananas from browning?
I slice them right before serving or toss them in a little lemon juice to slow browning if prepping in advance.
Can I serve this warm?
The ingredients are best cold or at room temp, but warming the caramel slightly adds a nice touch. I avoid warming the whole taco so the whipped cream doesn’t melt.
Conclusion
Caramel Banana Nuts Tacos are a fun and delicious way to transform simple ingredients into a treat that feels anything but ordinary. Whether I’m making them for a party or just as a quick dessert, they’re always a hit. The creamy bananas, crunchy nuts, fluffy whipped cream, and sweet caramel in every bite make these tacos hard to resist—and even harder to stop at just one.
Print
Caramel Banana Nuts Tacos
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 dessert tacos
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These caramel banana nuts tacos are a fun and delicious dessert! Crispy taco shells filled with bananas, whipped cream, crunchy nuts, and rich caramel drizzle.
Ingredients
6 crispy taco shells (store-bought or homemade)
3 ripe bananas, sliced
1 cup whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
½ cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans, or peanuts)
¼ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
Prepare the Tacos: If using store-bought taco shells, gently warm them in the oven at 300°F for 2–3 minutes to make them slightly more pliable. Let cool before filling.
Fill with Bananas: Place a few banana slices into each taco shell.
Add Whipped Cream: Spoon or pipe whipped cream over the bananas.
Top with Nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts over the whipped cream.
Drizzle with Caramel: Finish with a generous drizzle of caramel sauce on top.
Serve Immediately: Best enjoyed fresh while the shells are still crisp.
Notes
Customize with chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, Nutella, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
For a healthier version, use Greek yogurt instead of whipped cream and a light caramel sauce.
Great for dessert taco bars — set up toppings and let everyone build their own!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
