Banana and Cookie Dessert

This quick and easy Banana and Cookie Dessert is the perfect treat for any occasion. Combining the natural sweetness of bananas with the crunch of cookies and a creamy, indulgent filling, this no-bake dessert is as simple to make as it is delicious. Ready in just a few minutes, it’s a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen.

Preparation Time:

• Total time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 bananas
• 120g (about 1 cup) of cookies
• 35g (2.5 tablespoons) of butter
• 75g (1/3 cup) whipped cream
• 200g (about 3/4 cup) sweetened condensed milk
• 35g (2.5 tablespoons) of sugar
• Fine sugar (for whipping the cream)
• Chocolate flakes (for topping)

Directions:

1. Crushing the Cookies:
   • Place your favorite cookies in a plastic bag and crush them into fine crumbs using a rolling pin. This will create the crunchy base for your dessert.
2. Preparing the Base:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed cookies with mashed bananas using a potato masher. Mix until well combined.
   • Transfer the mixture into a round cake pan, pressing it down to form an even base.
3. Making the Creamy Filling:
   • In a saucepan, melt the butter and sugar over medium heat.
   • Once melted, add the sweetened condensed milk and stir well.
   • Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring continuously until it thickens slightly. This creamy mixture will serve as the filling.
4. Assembling the Dessert:
   • Pour the creamy filling over the cookie and banana base in the cake pan.
   • Slice the remaining banana and arrange the slices on top of the creamy filling for added flavor.
5. Decorating with Chocolate Flakes:
   • In a separate bowl, whip the cream with a teaspoon of fine sugar until it forms stiff peaks.
   • Spread the whipped cream over the assembled dessert.
   • Generously sprinkle chocolate flakes on top for a finishing touch.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve chilled: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
• Get creative: Top with additional fruits like berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flavor.
• Garnish: Add a sprinkle of nuts or shredded coconut for a crunchy twist.
• Pair with coffee: This dessert pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

Cooking Tips:

• Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture.
• If you prefer a firmer base, press the cookie mixture firmly into the pan and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes before adding the filling.
• For a richer taste, you can use chocolate or caramel cookies as the base.
• Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less sugar to the whipped cream.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Bananas provide a good source of potassium and dietary fiber.
• The dessert offers a balanced combination of carbs, fats, and a small amount of protein.
• Whipped cream adds calcium and vitamin D.
• Moderation is key as the dessert is rich in sugar and calories.

Dietary Information:

• This dessert contains dairy and gluten, making it unsuitable for those with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity.
• It can be made vegetarian by ensuring the cookies used are free from gelatin or animal-based ingredients.
• Not suitable for vegans due to the use of dairy products.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 30g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 120mg
• Calcium: 80mg
• Iron: 1mg

Storage:

• Store the dessert in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For best results, cover the dessert tightly to prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
• The dessert is best served chilled but can be frozen for longer storage; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• It’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare, requiring no baking or special equipment.
• The combination of bananas, cookies, and a creamy filling creates a deliciously satisfying dessert.
• Perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you need a sweet treat in a hurry.
• The recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients and toppings.

Conclusion: In just a few minutes, you’ve created a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress. This Banana and Cookie Dessert is a wonderful blend of flavors and textures, with the sweet, creamy filling complementing the crunchy cookie base and fresh bananas. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it as a treat for yourself, this dessert is sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy a little slice of indulgence!

10 Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use different types of cookies?
   • Yes, any type of cookie can be used depending on your preference, such as graham crackers, digestive biscuits, or even chocolate cookies.
2. Can I substitute whipped cream with something else?
   • You can use a non-dairy whipped topping or Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative.
3. How long should I refrigerate the dessert before serving?
   • It’s best to refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the dessert to set properly.
4. Can I add other fruits to the dessert?
   • Yes, berries, mangoes, or kiwi would be great additions to the dessert.
5. Is there a way to make this dessert vegan?
   • You can use plant-based butter, coconut cream instead of whipped cream, and vegan condensed milk to make it vegan.
6. What’s the best way to crush the cookies?
   • Place the cookies in a sealed plastic bag and use a rolling pin to crush them finely. You can also use a food processor.
7. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
8. Can I use a different type of cream?
   • Yes, you can use heavy cream, double cream, or even coconut cream for a different flavor.
9. What can I use instead of chocolate flakes for topping?
   • You can use cocoa powder, grated chocolate, or even crushed nuts.
10. How do I prevent the banana slices from browning?
    • Toss the banana slices in a little lemon juice before adding them to the dessert to prevent browning.