I love this recipe because it gives me all the indulgent, caramel-like flavors of banana foster without the fuss of stovetop cooking. The slow cooker gently transforms sliced bananas, brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon into a luscious pudding that tastes far more impressive than the effort required. Whether I serve it as a dessert on its own or pair it with ice cream, I always appreciate how effortless and crowd-pleasing it is.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 ripe bananas, sliced 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Directions
I grease the inside of my slow cooker with butter or cooking spray.
In a large bowl, I mix together the sliced bananas, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and cinnamon until everything is evenly coated.
I pour the mixture into the slow cooker and spread it out in an even layer.
I cover and cook on Low for 2–3 hours, until the bananas are soft and the sauce has thickened.
I give the pudding a gentle stir before serving it warm.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 6 Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 2–3 hours Total time: about 2 hours 10 minutes to 3 hours 10 minutes
Variations
I add a splash of dark rum or banana liqueur for a deeper, more authentic banana foster flavor.
I stir in chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins for extra texture.
I replace the butter with coconut oil when I want a dairy-free version.
I spoon the pudding over pound cake, waffles, or French toast for an extra special serving idea.
I mix in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom when I want a more complex spice profile.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pudding thickens as it cools, so when reheating, I warm it gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or milk to bring back some of the sauciness.
FAQs
Can I use less ripe bananas?
I prefer ripe bananas for the best sweetness and texture, but slightly underripe bananas will soften during cooking.
Can I cook this on High?
I can, but I reduce the cook time to about 1–1.5 hours and watch closely to prevent burning.
Can I add more spices?
Absolutely—I often add nutmeg, ginger, or a pinch of cloves for extra warmth.
What can I serve this with?
I love pairing it with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or toasted nuts for crunch.
Can I freeze this dessert?
I don’t recommend freezing it because the bananas become watery after thawing, but it keeps well in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
I love how this five-ingredient slow cooker banana foster pudding transforms simple ingredients into a warm, caramel-scented dessert with almost no effort. It’s nostalgic, comforting, and perfect for sharing. Whether I serve it on its own or dress it up with toppings, it’s the kind of easy treat I know I’ll come back to again and again.
