Indulge your taste buds with the delightful combination of sweet bananas and gooey caramel in this delicious Banana Caramel Tart. Perfect for any gathering or special occasion, this decadent dessert is sure to impress your family and friends with its rich flavors and buttery crust. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering.
**Banana Caramel Tart**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1/3 cup powdered sugar
– 1 egg yolk
– 4 ripe bananas
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Crust:**
– In a food processor, combine the flour, butter, and powdered sugar. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
– Add the egg yolk and continue to pulse until the dough comes together.
– Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead gently until smooth. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. **Preheat the Oven:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough chills.
3. **Roll Out the Dough:**
– On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a circle large enough to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Press the dough into the pan, trimming any excess.
4. **Blind Bake the Crust:**
– Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
– Bake for 15 minutes. Remove the weights and parchment paper, then bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Allow to cool.
5. **Prepare the Caramel:**
– In a saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts and turns a deep amber color.
– Carefully add the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble.
– Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
6. **Assemble the Tart:**
– Slice the bananas and arrange them in the cooled tart crust.
– Pour the warm caramel over the bananas, ensuring they are evenly coated.
– Refrigerate the tart for at least 2 hours to allow the caramel to set.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Once set, slice the Banana Caramel Tart into wedges and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
– Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 2 days.
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this heavenly Banana Caramel Tart that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the rich flavor of caramel. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dessert is a true crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of this delectable tart and savor every bite of its luscious goodness.