Slow Cooker Banana Foster Pudding

### Instructions

#### 1. **Prepare the Caramelized Banana Mixture**:
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and dark rum. Stir until the mixture comes to a simmer and the sugar is dissolved. Add the sliced bananas to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring gently, until the bananas are coated with the caramel sauce and softened. Be careful not to overcook the bananas; you want them to hold their shape.

Remove the banana mixture from heat and set aside.

#### 2. **Prepare the Pudding Base**:
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to boil. Once it starts boiling, continue to cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to fully thicken into a creamy pudding consistency.

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and banana extract (if using).

#### 3. **Combine Banana Mixture with Pudding**:
Once the pudding base has thickened, gently fold in the caramelized banana mixture, including the sauce. Be sure to combine everything thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly.

#### 4. **Transfer to Slow Cooker**:
Pour the banana pudding mixture into the slow cooker, and cover with the lid. Set the slow cooker to low and cook for **2 to 2.5 hours**, stirring once or twice throughout the cooking process. You’ll know it’s ready when the pudding is thick and the bananas have softened even further, absorbing the flavors of the sauce.

#### 5. **Serve and Garnish**:
Once the pudding is done, give it a final stir and serve it warm in individual bowls. You can top the pudding with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.

If you prefer a cooler dessert, let the pudding cool to room temperature and refrigerate it for 1-2 hours before serving. The flavors will continue to meld as it chills, making it just as delicious cold as it is warm.

### Tips for Success

– **Use Ripe Bananas**: The riper your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful they’ll be in this dessert. Overripe bananas work best since they’ll break down into a softer, more caramelized texture when cooked.

– **Dark Rum Flavor**: If you want to recreate the authentic Banana Foster flavor, dark rum is a key ingredient. It adds depth to the caramel sauce and enhances the overall flavor of the dish. If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute with a splash of vanilla extract or skip the rum altogether.

– **Slow Cooker Size**: Depending on the size of your slow cooker, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe, but smaller versions may cook faster, so be sure to check the pudding as it cooks.

– **Make Ahead**: This pudding is perfect for making ahead of time. After cooking, allow it to cool, then store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave.

– **Add Texture**: For some crunch, you can sprinkle chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, on top before serving. They add a delightful contrast to the creamy pudding and caramelized bananas.

### Why This Recipe Works

**Slow Cooker Banana Foster Pudding** is a brilliant blend of two beloved desserts: creamy banana pudding and rich Banana Foster. By slow cooking the bananas with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and rum, you get that deep, caramelized flavor that defines Banana Foster. Combining it with a silky, homemade pudding base brings it all together into a decadent dessert that’s both familiar and exciting.

The slow cooker ensures that everything cooks evenly and that the bananas soften to perfection, while the pudding base thickens to a luxurious consistency. Whether served warm or cold, it’s a dessert that satisfies any craving for something sweet, rich, and utterly comforting.

### Conclusion

**Slow Cooker Banana Foster Pudding** is the ultimate treat for anyone who loves rich, decadent desserts with a bit of a twist. With its layers of creamy pudding, caramelized bananas, and rum-infused sauce, this dessert brings the flavor of the classic Banana Foster into a comforting pudding form. Best of all, it’s made with minimal effort thanks to the slow cooker, making it perfect for any occasion — from casual family dinners to special celebrations.

So, why not indulge in something truly special next time you need a show-stopping dessert? Let your slow cooker work its magic and enjoy the irresistible flavors of **Slow Cooker Banana Foster Pudding**!