Raspberry Banana Split Parfait

Raspberry Banana Split Parfait

This parfait is a delightful blend of creamy, fruity, crunchy, and chocolatey, reminiscent of a banana split but with a vibrant raspberry twist.

Yields: 2 parfaits Prep time: 20-25 minutes Chill time: 30 minutes (optional, for firmer layers)

Ingredients:

For the Raspberry-Banana Cream:

• 1 large ripe banana, sliced and frozen (for a thicker, colder cream) OR 1 1/2 large ripe bananas, fresh
• 1 cup (about 125g) fresh or frozen raspberries (if frozen, thaw slightly)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat, depending on preference)
• 2-3 tablespoons milk (dairy or non-dairy, as needed to reach desired consistency)
• 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste, depending on sweetness of fruit)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Raspberry Compote (or simple mashed raspberries):

• 1 cup (about 125g) fresh or frozen raspberries
• 1-2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional, to taste)
• 1 tablespoon water (if making a quick compote)

For the Whipped Cream:

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (cold)
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Assembly and Toppings:

• 1 large ripe banana, sliced (for topping)
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup or melted chocolate for drizzling
• A few fresh raspberries (for garnish)
• Small squares of chocolate (optional, for garnish)

Equipment:

• Blender or food processor
• Small saucepan (if making compote)
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• 2 parfait glasses or tall dessert glasses

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Raspberry-Banana Cream: * If using frozen banana, add it to your blender or food processor along with 1 cup of raspberries, Greek yogurt, milk, honey/maple syrup, and vanilla extract. * Blend until completely smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach a consistency that’s pourable but still thick enough to hold its shape. * Taste and adjust sweetness if desired. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Raspberry Compote (or mashed raspberries): * Option 1: Quick Compote (recommended for a richer flavor): In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of raspberries, sugar (if using), and 1 tablespoon of water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes, until the raspberries break down and the mixture thickens slightly. You can mash them with a fork as they cook. Let cool completely. * Option 2: Simple Mashed Raspberries: In a small bowl, gently mash 1 cup of raspberries with a fork. You can add a pinch of sugar if desired.

3. Prepare the Whipped Cream: * In a cold mixing bowl, combine the cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. * Using an electric mixer (or whisk), beat on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, then continue beating until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat, or it will turn lumpy.

4. Assemble the Parfaits: * First Layer (Raspberry-Banana Cream): Spoon about 1/4 of the Raspberry-Banana Cream into the bottom of each parfait glass. * Second Layer (Raspberry Compote/Mashed Raspberries): Next, add a layer of the prepared Raspberry Compote or mashed raspberries over the pink cream. * Third Layer (More Raspberry-Banana Cream): Add another layer of the Raspberry-Banana Cream on top of the red raspberry layer. * Fourth Layer (Chopped Nuts): Sprinkle a generous amount of chopped walnuts or pecans over the pink cream. * Fifth Layer (Whipped Cream): Pipe or spoon a generous dollop of whipped cream on top of the nuts. * Toppings: Arrange sliced bananas artfully on top of the whipped cream. Drizzle generously with chocolate syrup or melted chocolate. Garnish with a few fresh raspberries and an optional small square of chocolate.

5. Chill and Serve: * For best results, chill the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the layers to set slightly and flavors to meld. * Serve immediately after chilling, or within a few hours.

Tips and Variations:

• Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey/maple syrup and sugar in the compote to your preferred sweetness. Riper bananas will require less added sweetener.
• Texture: For a smoother raspberry compote, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the seeds after cooking.
• Other Berries: While raspberries are prominent, you could experiment with strawberries, blueberries, or a mixed berry compote.
• Crunch Factor: Instead of or in addition to nuts, consider adding a layer of granola or crushed graham crackers for extra crunch.
• Chocolate: For a richer chocolate flavor, melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over the parfaits.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the raspberry-banana cream and raspberry compote ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the parfaits just before serving for the freshest whipped cream and banana slices.
• Dietary Adjustments: Use plant-based yogurt and milk for a dairy-free version. Ensure chocolate syrup is dairy-free if needed.

Enjoy your beautiful and delicious Raspberry Banana Split Parfaits!