Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Banana Foster Flavor Base
Start by cooking the bananas in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon to the skillet. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and forms a thick syrup. Allow the bananas to soften slightly as the sauce begins to caramelize around them.
Next, carefully add the dark rum. If you want to flambé, you can light the rum (be sure to take necessary precautions and be in a safe environment), or you can simply allow it to cook off. The alcohol will burn off, leaving behind the rich flavor of the rum.
Once the bananas are cooked down and the rum has evaporated, remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Pudding Base
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer and begins to thicken. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
In a separate bowl, lightly whisk the egg yolks. Once the milk mixture has thickened, slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the hot mixture into the egg yolks while whisking to temper the eggs. Then, slowly whisk the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the pudding thickens further, about 2-3 minutes.
Once thickened, remove the pudding from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Combine the Banana Foster Flavor with the Pudding
Gently fold the caramelized banana mixture into the thickened pudding base. You want to ensure the bananas are evenly distributed throughout the pudding, so stir carefully.
Step 4: Chill the Pudding
Pour the banana foster pudding into individual serving cups or a large bowl. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours to allow the pudding to set and chill completely.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once the pudding has set, remove it from the refrigerator. Top with freshly whipped cream, crumbled graham crackers or Nilla wafers, and a sprinkle of chopped nuts for texture, if desired.