Grilled Bananas with Coconut Caramel Sauce is a simple yet incredibly delicious dessert that brings tropical flavors to your table. Sweet ripe bananas become warm and caramelized on the grill, while the rich coconut caramel sauce adds a creamy and indulgent finishing touch. This dessert is perfect for summer barbecues, outdoor gatherings, or anytime you want a quick treat that feels both comforting and elegant.
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. Ripe bananas are sliced lengthwise and lightly brushed with melted butter or coconut oil before being placed on a hot grill. As the bananas cook, their natural sugars caramelize, creating golden grill marks and an irresistibly soft texture. The grilling process also adds a subtle smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the fruit.
The coconut caramel sauce is what makes this dessert truly special. Made with coconut milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a touch of sea salt, the sauce becomes smooth, creamy, and deeply flavorful. The coconut flavor complements the grilled bananas perfectly while adding a tropical twist that feels refreshing and unique. A drizzle of warm caramel sauce over the bananas transforms this simple dessert into something restaurant-worthy.
Grilled Bananas with Coconut Caramel Sauce can be served on their own or paired with vanilla ice cream, toasted coconut flakes, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon. For extra texture, crushed graham crackers or granola make a delicious topping. This dessert is also naturally adaptable for different dietary preferences, especially when using dairy-free ingredients like coconut oil and plant-based ice cream.
Because the recipe comes together quickly, it is ideal for entertaining guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The bananas only need a few minutes on the grill, and the sauce can easily be prepared ahead of time. The warm fruit combined with the silky caramel sauce creates a comforting dessert that feels both light and satisfying.
Whether you are hosting a backyard cookout or simply craving a tropical-inspired dessert, Grilled Bananas with Coconut Caramel Sauce is a flavorful option that is guaranteed to impress. Its combination of smoky grilled fruit and creamy coconut caramel creates a perfect balance of sweetness, richness, and summer flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe bananas halved lengthwise
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil for brushing the grill
- 1 cup coconut milk full-fat
- 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 pinch ground cinnamon optional
Instructions
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat and brush the grates lightly with coconut oil.
- Place the banana halves cut-side down on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until lightly charred and warmed through.
- Meanwhile, make the sauce by combining the coconut milk, brown sugar, butter, salt, and cinnamon in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Simmer gently, stirring often, for 4 to 6 minutes until slightly thickened and glossy.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Serve the grilled bananas warm, drizzled generously with the coconut caramel sauce.
Nutrition
I’m no chef but this looked fancy and it was pretty easy. Will make again!
So glad to hear you enjoyed it! Grilled bananas are a game changer! 🍌
Looks good, but doesn’t banana get mushy when grilled? Not sure about that…
I tried this but the bananas just fell apart on the grill. What am I doing wrong? 😩
Maybe the bananas were too ripe? They can get mushy if they’re too soft. Try less ripe ones next time! 😊
My kids loved it! Definitely making it again, maybe add some nuts next time!
I’m so glad your kids enjoyed it! Nuts would be a great addition for texture. What kind are you thinking about?
YUMMY! I added some chopped nuts on top and it was great!
Idk about this one… seems like a lot of sugar for a fruit dish.
Nah, bring on the sugar! It’s a dessert, after all! A little sweetness is what makes it tasty. 😋
I hear ya! That sugar does seem like a lot. I usually go for less sweet stuff. Maybe try with honey instead?
Grill? We just made it on the stove. Still tasted great!
But isn’t grilling the whole point? Stovetop just ain’t the same. What if you miss that smoky flavor? 🤔
Cooking on the stove sounds good too! I’ve done that before and it also comes out yummy. Just love the caramel! ❤️
Made this for dessert tonight and wow—caramel-y without being too heavy. The char on the bananas is such a nice contrast. I used a little extra cinnamon and it felt perfect.
Yes!! I made this last week and the caramel sauce totally nailed that “sweet but not cloying” vibe. Also same—extra cinnamon is the move. 😄
Not gonna lie, I think 2 minutes is too long on a grill pan. Mine got kinda mushy and the sauce separated a bit (maybe my coconut milk was the problem). Still tasted good though.
Honestly, who even thought of grilling bananas? But the caramel sauce made it worth it. 😄
Grilled bananas are actually delicious! They get all sweet and gooey. 🙌
I don’t know man, just sounds weird. Bananas on a grill??
This is such a simple yet delicious recipe! My kids loved it! 😍
I like bananas but this is just too odd for me. No thanks.