Banana Tarte Tatin

Banana Tarte Tatin is a luscious, upside-down caramelized dessert that transforms ripe bananas into a glossy, golden treat wrapped in buttery puff pastry. This twist on the French classic replaces apples with bananas for a deeper, richer flavor that pairs beautifully with the sticky caramel and crisp crust. It’s elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for a weeknight dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Banana Tarte Tatin is both stunning and simple. The caramelized bananas become soft and intensely flavorful while the puff pastry bakes up golden and flaky. You don’t need fancy techniques or equipment, and it’s an ideal way to use up overripe bananas. Serve it warm with whipped cream or ice cream, and you’ve got a showstopping dessert with minimal effort.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Bananas (ripe but firm)
• Puff pastry sheet, thawed
• Granulated sugar
• Unsalted butter
• Vanilla extract
• Lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
• Salt
• Optional: cinnamon or nutmeg for added spice

directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In an oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron), melt butter over medium heat. Add sugar and stir until it turns into a golden caramel, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Stir in vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and lemon juice if using.
4. Slice bananas in half lengthwise and arrange cut-side down in the caramel. Remove from heat.
5. Roll out puff pastry slightly and cut into a circle just larger than the skillet.
6. Place the pastry over the bananas, tucking in the edges.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes, then carefully invert onto a plate. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spiced caramel: Add a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the caramel.
• Boozy twist: Add a splash of dark rum or bourbon to the caramel sauce.
• Nut topping: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top after flipping.
• Tropical style: Add sliced mango or pineapple with the banana.
• Mini versions: Make individual tarte tatins using a muffin tin or small ramekins.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 8–10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it may make the pastry soggy. Best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

FAQs

What type of bananas should I use?

Use ripe but firm bananas—they should be sweet but not mushy, so they hold their shape during cooking.

Can I make this without a cast iron skillet?

Yes, use any oven-safe skillet or transfer the caramel and bananas to a round baking dish before topping with pastry.

Can I use frozen bananas?

Not recommended, as they release too much moisture and become too soft when baked.

Can I use brown sugar instead of white?

Yes, brown sugar adds a deeper molasses flavor to the caramel and works wonderfully.

Can I make this in advance?

You can prepare the caramel and arrange the bananas ahead, then add pastry and bake just before serving.

What’s the best way to flip the tarte tatin?

Let it cool slightly, place a plate over the skillet, and carefully flip it in one smooth motion while using oven mitts.

What can I serve it with?

Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, crème fraîche, or even a drizzle of rum sauce are all excellent.

Can I add chocolate?

Yes, sprinkle a few dark chocolate chips between the bananas before topping with the pastry.

Can I use phyllo dough instead?

Phyllo won’t puff like puff pastry, but you can layer it with butter for a crispy, flaky variation.

Is this dessert very sweet?

It is sweet from the caramel and bananas, but the salt and lemon juice help balance the flavor nicely.

Conclusion

Banana Tarte Tatin is an effortless yet elegant dessert that delivers deep, caramelized flavor in every bite. With its flaky puff pastry crust and warm banana filling, it’s a comforting and impressive treat that’s easy to make any time. Whether you’re baking for guests or just treating yourself, this dessert is a guaranteed favorite.

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