Description
This Simple Banana Bread Syrup is a delightful homemade topping that captures the warm, comforting flavors of banana bread in a smooth syrup form. Made by simmering ripe bananas with sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, and a hint of lemon juice, this syrup is perfect to drizzle over pancakes, waffles, ice cream, yogurt, or oatmeal. It’s quick to make on the stovetop, requiring only about 20 minutes from start to finish, and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. The rich aroma and natural sweetness from very ripe bananas make it a versatile and delicious addition to your breakfast or dessert table.
Ingredients
Scale
Banana Syrup Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, peeled and mashed
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare Bananas: Peel and mash two ripe bananas thoroughly in a medium saucepan to start the base of your syrup.
- Add Ingredients: Pour in 1 cup of water, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup white sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Stir well to combine all flavors evenly.
- Simmer Syrup: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning and promote thickening.
- Cool the Syrup: Remove the pan from heat and allow the syrup to cool slightly, which helps the flavors to meld further.
- Strain the Syrup: For a smooth consistency, strain the syrup using a fine-mesh sieve to remove banana solids, pressing gently to extract maximum flavor and liquid.
- Store and Serve: Transfer the finished syrup to a clean container or bottle. Use immediately, or refrigerate for up to one week. Warm gently before serving if the syrup has thickened.
Notes
- For a richer flavor profile, add a splash of rum or bourbon while simmering the syrup.
- Using very ripe bananas ensures maximum sweetness and enhances the aroma.
- This syrup is not only fantastic on pancakes and waffles but also makes a delicious drizzle for ice cream, yogurt, or oatmeal.
- If you prefer a chunkier syrup with banana bits, skip the straining step.
