Pin
This decadent caramel banana nuts dessert taco transforms your taco Tuesday into a sweet sensation that both kids and adults will devour. I created these on a whim when looking for a fun dessert that would use up overripe bananas, and they've become our family's favorite weekend treat.
These sweet tacos have become our go-to dessert for impromptu gatherings. The first time I made them for my nieces birthday party, they disappeared faster than any other dessert on the table, and now they're requested at every family function.
- Crispy taco shells perfectly cradle the sweet filling while providing satisfying crunch
- Ripe bananas with brown spots offer the sweetest flavor profile
- Whipped cream creates a cloud like texture that balances the caramel richness
- Chopped nuts add essential texture contrast and subtle nuttiness
- Caramel sauce ties everything together with its buttery sweetness
- Chocolate sauce optional but creates beautiful flavor complexity
- Crushed cookies provide additional texture and flavor dimension
How To Make Caramel Banana Nuts Tacos
- Prepare the shells
- Warm taco shells in preheated oven at 175°C for 3 to 4 minutes until they become perfectly crisp but not burnt. This crucial step ensures they maintain structural integrity when filled with the heavier ingredients.
- Layer the bananas
- Arrange freshly sliced bananas in an even layer covering the bottom of each warmed shell. Use bananas with slight brown spotting for optimal sweetness. The warmth from the shells will slightly soften the bananas enhancing their natural flavors.
- Add whipped cream
- Either pipe using a pastry bag with star tip or carefully spoon generous amounts of whipped cream over the banana layer. The cream should be cold and stiff enough to hold its shape while providing a creamy contrast to the other textures.
- Apply toppings
- Sprinkle your preferred chopped nuts evenly across the whipped cream layer ensuring good distribution. Then drizzle warm caramel sauce in a zigzag pattern allowing it to partially soak into the cream and bananas below.
- Final garnishes
- Add chocolate sauce in thin lines perpendicular to the caramel for visual appeal and sprinkle crushed cookies over the entire creation for additional texture and flavor complexity.
These dessert tacos remind me of the banana splits my grandmother would make for us every Sunday afternoon. The combination of creamy, crunchy, and caramelly elements creates that same nostalgic feeling but in a much more manageable handheld form that even the youngest family members can enjoy without making a complete mess.
Make Ahead Options
While these tacos are best enjoyed immediately after assembly, you can prepare most components ahead of time. Toast the taco shells and store them in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Slice bananas just before assembly to prevent browning. Whipped cream can be prepared and refrigerated for several hours, and nuts can be chopped and stored in advance. This preparation strategy makes these dessert tacos perfect for entertaining when you want minimal last minute assembly.
Customization Ideas
These sweet tacos welcome endless variations based on your preferences or what you have available. Try sliced strawberries or fresh berries instead of bananas for a fruity twist. Replace caramel with chocolate sauce, fruit preserves, or even maple syrup. For the nuts, any variety works wonderfully including almonds, pistachios, or hazelnuts. You could even add cinnamon sugar to the taco shells before warming them or sprinkle the finished tacos with sea salt for a sophisticated sweet and salty combination.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these decadent treats as the finale to a Mexican themed dinner night or as the star of a dessert bar. For an extra special presentation, arrange them on a platter with small bowls of additional toppings like rainbow sprinkles, shredded coconut, or mini chocolate chips so guests can customize their own. They pair beautifully with coffee, hot chocolate, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. For adults, consider serving alongside a dessert wine or coffee liqueur for an indulgent after dinner treat.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make these caramel banana nut tacos ahead of time?
These tacos are best assembled just before serving to maintain the crispy shell texture. However, you can prepare all components separately in advance, storing them properly, and then assemble just before serving.
- → What type of nuts work best for this dessert?
Walnuts, pecans, and peanuts all work well, but you can substitute with almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios based on preference. For a nut-free version, try using granola or toasted coconut flakes.
- → Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works perfectly. For a homemade touch, you can make your own by simmering 1 cup sugar, 6 tablespoons butter, and 1/2 cup cream until smooth and golden.
- → What can I use instead of whipped cream?
Vanilla ice cream makes an excellent substitute for whipped cream. For dairy-free options, consider coconut whipped cream, vanilla yogurt, or dairy-free ice cream alternatives.
- → What other fruits can I use besides bananas?
Sliced strawberries, diced apples (sautéed with cinnamon), peaches, or mixed berries all work wonderfully as alternatives or additions to the bananas in this dessert.
- → How do I keep the taco shells from getting soggy?
Heat the taco shells in the oven until very crisp before assembling, and serve immediately after preparation. For make-ahead situations, keep all components separate until just before serving.