If you love warm, comforting desserts that feel like a cozy hug in every bite, then the Banana Crumble with Pecans and Orange Cinnamon Sauce Recipe is just what you need in your recipe collection. This delightful dish combines tender banana chunks bathed in a luscious orange cinnamon sauce, topped with an irresistible pecan-studded crumble that bakes to golden perfection. Whether you’re indulging in a quiet night at home or impressing friends at a dinner party, this dessert offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures that is sure to become a fast favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Banana Crumble with Pecans and Orange Cinnamon Sauce Recipe lies in its simple, well-chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role — from the buttery oats that create a crunchy topping to the bright orange juice that adds a lovely citrus zing to the banana filling.
- Light or dark brown sugar: balances sweetness and adds moisture, perfect for both the topping and filling.
- Old fashioned oats: provide a hearty, chewy texture that holds the crumble together beautifully.
- All-purpose flour: creates structure in the topping, helping it turn delightfully crispy.
- Cold butter, cut into cubes: essential for creating the crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth topping.
- Pecans, toasted: add a rich, nutty crunch that complements the soft bananas perfectly.
- Butter for filling: enriches the sauce, helping brown sugar dissolve and caramelize properly.
- Orange juice: adds bright, citrus flavor and balances the sweetness with a refreshing tang.
- Cinnamon: brings warmth and spice that pairs beautifully with bananas and pecans.
- Salt: enhances all flavors and balances sweetness for a rounded taste.
- Bananas, cut into inch-long chunks: the star ingredient, providing natural sweetness and luscious softness.
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped topping: perfect finishing touch that melts into the warm crumble.
How to Make Banana Crumble with Pecans and Orange Cinnamon Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Topping
Start by combining the brown sugar, oats, and flour in a medium bowl. Then, using your fingers, work the cold butter cubes into the dry ingredients until you get that perfect crumbly texture. Toss in the toasted pecans and stir well. Pop this mixture into the fridge—it will be waiting to add that golden, nutty crunch on top of your bananas.
Step 2: Create the Filling
Next, melt butter in a 10-inch cast iron or oven-safe skillet over low heat. Stir in the brown sugar until it dissolves into a luscious, sticky caramel glaze. Add cinnamon and a pinch of salt, then carefully pour in the orange juice. You’ll hear a satisfying sizzle—just wait a minute for the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 3: Add the Bananas
Gently toss the banana chunks in the warm sauce so every piece is coated in that flavorful blend. Spread the bananas out evenly in your skillet, creating an inviting base for your crumble topping.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Sprinkle the chilled pecan crumble mixture evenly over the bananas. Slide your skillet into a preheated 350-degree oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the topping turns a gorgeous golden brown. Let it rest for 10 minutes so those flavors meld beautifully before serving.
How to Serve Banana Crumble with Pecans and Orange Cinnamon Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
While this crumble is fantastic on its own, a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream takes it to another level of indulgence. For a touch of elegance, sprinkle a few extra toasted pecans on top or grate a little orange zest for a burst of color and aroma.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a light cup of black coffee or a brisk herbal tea to balance its rich sweetness. If serving brunch-style, consider adding fresh fruit or a crisp green salad to contrast textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve individual portions in mini cast iron skillets or rustic ramekins. You can also spoon the banana crumble over warm pancakes or waffles for an unforgettable breakfast treat. Another fun idea is to layer the banana crumble with Greek yogurt or mascarpone for a parfait that’s equally delicious and pretty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover banana crumble tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container to keep it fresh. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay delicious for up to 3 days without losing its characteristic textures and flavors.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Banana Crumble with Pecans and Orange Cinnamon Sauce Recipe later, freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Just keep in mind the topping may soften slightly after thawing, but reheating will help restore some crispness.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat your crumble in a 325-degree oven until warmed through and the topping regains a bit of its crunch, about 10–15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that perfect crumble texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Frozen bananas tend to be softer and more watery, which could make the filling a bit runny. Fresh bananas work best for maintaining that lovely chunky texture and firm consistency in this crumble.
Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts make a great alternative and will bring their own unique crunch and flavor to the topping.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use coconut sugar or another vegan sweetener. Serve with non-dairy ice cream or whipped coconut cream for a fully vegan twist.
How do I toast pecans properly?
Simply spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast in a 350-degree oven for about 5–7 minutes, stirring once halfway through. Watch them closely to avoid burning—the aroma will let you know when they’re perfect!
Can I prepare the topping in advance?
Definitely, you can prepare the topping a day ahead and keep it chilled in the refrigerator. This makes assembling the Banana Crumble with Pecans and Orange Cinnamon Sauce Recipe quicker and easier when you’re ready to bake.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Crumble with Pecans and Orange Cinnamon Sauce Recipe offers a heartwarming blend of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist. It’s a perfect dessert for bringing people together, celebrating simple ingredients with a touch of elegance. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every cozy, delicious spoonful as much as I do!
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Banana Crumble with Pecans and Orange Cinnamon Sauce Recipe
This Banana Crumble is a warm, comforting American dessert featuring tender banana chunks coated in a cinnamon-spiced orange sauce, topped with a crunchy pecan oat crumble. Served best with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, it offers a perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors with a delightful mix of textures.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
Topping
- 1/4 cup light or dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup old fashioned oats
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 Tablespoons cold butter, cut into cubes
- 3/4 cup pecans, toasted
Filling
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup light or brown sugar
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 6 medium bananas, cut into 1-inch chunks
- Vanilla Ice Cream or Whipped Topping, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Topping: In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, oats, and flour. Using your fingers, work the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture becomes crumbly. Stir in the toasted pecans. Place the topping in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the filling.
- Make the Filling: Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a 10-inch cast iron or oven-safe skillet over low heat. Add brown sugar and stir continuously for about 3 minutes until it dissolves into a wet, sliding mass. Mix in cinnamon and salt. Carefully add orange juice; expect some sizzling and splattering. Cook for about 1 minute until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add Bananas: Gently toss banana chunks in the sauce to coat evenly. Spread the bananas and sauce uniformly in the skillet.
- Assemble the Crumble: Remove skillet from heat and evenly sprinkle the chilled topping over the banana mixture.
- Bake: Place the skillet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for approximately 20 minutes until the topping turns golden brown and crisp.
- Serve: Allow the crumble to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Serve warm topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent finish.
Notes
- Using a cast iron or oven-safe skillet ensures even cooking and ease of transfer from stovetop to oven.
- To toast pecans, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until fragrant.
- If you prefer a crunchier topping, add an extra tablespoon of flour or oats.
- Fresh, ripe bananas work best for optimal sweetness and texture.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
