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Bananas Foster Tartelettes & A Giveaway

Bananas Foster Tartelettes


I like to think I am fairly organized. I mean, there is logic to whatever battle is taking place on my desk. Or in my head. Like most of us, I get pretty psyched about being a step ahead and I was darn happy for having posts in drafts right before I left for BlogHer food in San Francisco. David says he has 40 stories or so in drafts at all times. I giggle when I have one ahead of the game. I am however excited when “the” one is these Bananas Foster Tartelettes. Things got busy then and things got busier this week but these were too good to wait any longer to post.

Whenever I travel, I try to leave a few easy things for B. to reheat for dinner knowing too well he’d end up eating at his parents or be invited here and there. He tends to skip meals when there is no one to call him to the table. I know he can boil water for pasta. I’ve seen it. I even happen to know he can make awesome steamed clams.

This time was no different as I labeled containers of food and even took him on a guided tour of the fridge and pantry. It’s just not his thing. I was tempted to post-it the entire house but refrained. However, as previously mentioned, his eyes got stuck on all the desserts left on top shelf from my zealous attempt at getting prepared. This is his thing.

Caramel


After describing what the tarts were made of, he exclaimed “oh! Kind of like bananas foster without the fire flambéing action!” Precisely. We tend to have a surplus of bananas in the house, and after making banana donuts last month, I still had plenty to use up, hence the tarts (and a few loaves of banana nut bread).

The tarts start with a crispy shortbread base and are filled with a hazelnut and almond frangipane before being topped with fresh banana slices and a (generous) drizzle of salted butter caramel sauce. I am all over banana and nuts and I am all over salted butter anything, so the combination was pretty much a no brainer. However, it all came together out of the necessity to use all the tidbits ingredients in the fridge, pantry and freezer.

I had leftover shortbread dough in the freezer from a previous tart making day as well as a jar of salted butter caramel sauce, a handful each almonds and hazelnuts in the pantry, a knob of butter and a tiny bit of cream in the fridge. And of course a good many banana giving me the sweet eye.

As I have said before, I hate waste. Having worked in a restaurant kitchen for many year, I pretty much nailed down the recycling issue. If you don’t recycle, re-use or force yourself to use items bought on a whim, you are likely to drive your place to the pits. I have the same mentality when it comes to the kitchen. Being on a tight budget, I can’t allow us to waste, even less impulse buy certain items. Everything these days is budgeted, accounted for and used to the max. More than ever before I am aware of what I have. Time, the ability to cook, develop recipes, a wonderful mother- in -law who unexpectedly drops by with supplies, etc…

Bananas Foster Tartelettes


Some of us are not that lucky. I do my best but some can’t. In that spirit, I really like what Macy is doing in their campaign Come Together to fight hunger to raise awareness and money to feed 10 million of people suffering from hunger, and they will match donation dollar for dollar.
When Macy’s got in touch to spread the word last week, I immediately agreed. There are 3 different ways you can get involved in this great campaign:

1) You can host dinner parties and ask that instead of bringing traditional host gifts, guests make a donation to Feeding America.

2) You can donate $1 directly at any Macy’s register, one dollar provides dinner for seven.

3) You can shop at any Macy’s and get special savings in-store on October 17 (today). A portion of the $5 in-store ticket sales will benefit Feeding America.

Macy’s also provided me with two $25 gift certificates to give to my readers. All you have to do is leave a comment (multiple entry will automatically be deleted) before Tuesday october 20th midnight eastern time, for a chance to win. My better half will select the winners at random from the comments left on this post. Even if Macy’s does not ship internationally nor has stores outside the US, everyone can enter. You can always use the gift certificate to do your Christmas shopping for friends or family here and continue to spread some good spirit.

Good luck!

Bananas Foster Tartelettes:

Serves 8

Sable Dough:
1 stick (113 gr) butter, at room temperature
3/4 cup (95 gr) powdered sugar (unsifted)
1 large egg
1 1 /2 cups (190gr) all purpose flour
2 tablespoons (20 gr) cornstarch
pinch of salt

For the almond-hazelnut frangipane filling:
1 stick (115 gr) butter, softened
½ cup (100 gr) granulated sugar
½ cup (50 gr) ground almonds
½ cup (50gr) ground hazelnuts
seeds from half a vanilla bean or 2 teaspoons vanilla paste or extract
2 eggs
1/4 cup (60gr) heavy cream

Remaining ingredients:
3-4 bananas, thinly sliced
Salted butter Caramel sauce
Vanilla Ice Cream

Prepare the shortbread rounds:
In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, whip the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy on medium speed, 2-3 minutes. Add the egg and mix until combined. Add the flour, cornstarch and salt and mix briefly to incorporate. Dump the whole mixture onto a lightly floured board and gather the dough into a smooth ball. Do not work the dough while in the mixer or it will toughen up. Flatten the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for an hour.
You will need half the amount of dough to make the tartelettes. The other half can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen, well wrapped for up to 3 months.
Preheat the oven to 350F and position a rack in the middle. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
When the dough is nice and cold, roll it out on a lightly floured board or in between sheets of plastic wrap to about ¼ -inch thick. Cut out eight 3-inch rounds with a pastry ring or cookie cutter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes. Let cool.

Prepare the filling:
Place the butter, sugar, ground nuts, vanilla bean seeds and the eggs in a large bowl and whisk until smooth (can also be done in a food processor). Add the cream but stir in it instead of whisking to prevent emulsifying it or it will rise while baking. Refrigerate for 30 minutes. Place 8 baked rounds of dough in 8 pastry rings of the same dimension, divide the cream evenly among the rings and bake 20 minutes at 350F. Let cool. Once cooled, remove the tarts from the rings and arrange the banana slices decoratively on top, drizzle the caramel sauce on top. Serve with vanilla ice cream if desired.

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Comments


Kate @ Savour Fare October 17, 2009 um 8:33 pm

Beautiful — I would call them Banoffee Tartlets, but they are a bit Bakewellian. I think that shot of the caramel in the pitcher is absolutely breathtaking, Helen.


Gosiak October 17, 2009 um 8:34 pm

Almonds, hazelnuts, bananas, salted butter caramel sauce… mmmmm your "better half" is one lucky man 🙂


Astrid October 17, 2009 um 8:43 pm

Wow, those look wonderful. like the recipe too. hmmm I have some bananas here that need to be used anyway…


Anonymous October 17, 2009 um 8:54 pm

Bananas and caramel. What could be better! Your photos and desserts never cease to amaze me.
Martha


Unknown October 17, 2009 um 8:55 pm

Your pictures always are so beautiful. I would love to give these a try especially since we have such wonderful New Orleans memories. Maybe one night I'll go all out and do a whole NOLA spread and serve this for dessert. Thanks!


elle October 17, 2009 um 8:59 pm

Your food always looks so amazing! Puts my pictures to shame lol


koto October 17, 2009 um 9:01 pm

salted butter caramel sauce..i won't be able to stop thinking about this one until i taste this!! I've already printed out your recipe to make tomorrow with my mom.


leseffel October 17, 2009 um 9:03 pm

That drizzle of salted butter caramel might be enough to help me overcome my dislike of bananas… yum!


oneordinaryday October 17, 2009 um 9:04 pm

What gorgeous tarts!
Macy's is doing a good thing to raise awareness with this program. Thanks for sharing it.


jenniferhoiyin October 17, 2009 um 9:14 pm

love the come together campaign too; and these look scrumptious, like everything you create, xo


Karolina October 17, 2009 um 9:19 pm

Can't wait to try this! Perfect for our chilly New York days here!!! 🙂


LaLa Lady October 17, 2009 um 9:20 pm

My God, those look good! They're perfect to eat on a cold rainy day…


Unknown October 17, 2009 um 9:24 pm

Looks yummy!


Lucky October 17, 2009 um 9:27 pm

I am so happy that I recently found this website. I love all the recipes here.


Rachel October 17, 2009 um 9:28 pm

I always find myself with extra bananas too. What a fantastic way to make them even more tasty.


bridget {bake at 350} October 17, 2009 um 9:37 pm

Oooo…I'd love a Macy's postcard to use in the "Martha" section! 🙂


Frenchie October 17, 2009 um 9:40 pm

I am usually so intimidated to make your desserts, the pictures are always so pristine and beautiful that I would hate to ruin that. This seems like something I will have to make though, I cannot wait to try it. I really respect your waste not, want not attitude and I am so glad that you feel inclined to share that with others.


Nirvana October 17, 2009 um 9:40 pm

the campaign is a fabulous idea! and this looks so yummy 🙂


Erica October 17, 2009 um 9:48 pm

What a great cause and a lovely entry!


Cathy October 17, 2009 um 9:49 pm

Caramel? Yummy. I will try making this. It looks amazing!


Cherry Blossoms October 17, 2009 um 9:53 pm

Your Banana Foster recipe sounds just as good as a $25 Gift Card to Macys! Thanks for the recipe!!!!!

CherryBlossomsDesign at hotmail


Mrs. G October 17, 2009 um 9:58 pm

Your tartlettes look yummy! Thanks for the opportunity to enter the contest.


natalie October 17, 2009 um 10:01 pm

omg that dessert looks divine!!! and the campaign is such a great idea!


Amy October 17, 2009 um 10:02 pm

YOu had me a bananas! 🙂


erica :) October 17, 2009 um 10:08 pm

Looks absolutely amazing!!!! I would love to make something like that! 🙂


Amy I. October 17, 2009 um 10:09 pm

Beautiful recipe and beautiful photos! Thanks for the giveaway opportunity!


Dragana October 17, 2009 um 10:12 pm

This looks like a winning recipe to me – bananas and caramel with my favorite almonds and hazelnuts. Can one bake these in traditional tart molds?


Corey October 17, 2009 um 10:21 pm

I'm pretty sure my husband would be super stoked if I made these. Does anyone still use the word "stoked"? Anyway…the $25 would help us buy Christmas presents, which would be awesome, since Christmas presents aren't happening much in my family this year.


Nora October 17, 2009 um 10:22 pm

The Banana Foster Tartelettes look fantastic!


Megan A. @ Megan Homemade October 17, 2009 um 10:28 pm

Those look yummy! Hope I win!


Linda Nguyen October 17, 2009 um 10:29 pm

yum! too bad i can't get any local bananas around here this time of year. but definitely will bookmark for another time. love your blog!


Stacey October 17, 2009 um 10:41 pm

Sounds delicious! I am on a banana spree of sorts right now too:)


Laura October 17, 2009 um 10:53 pm

As usual , your creation stunned me with it's delicious beauty.


Anonymous October 17, 2009 um 11:06 pm

Absolutely amazing pictures! I'm looking forward to trying this recipe…as soon as I get out of my current college student no-kitchen situation 🙂


Emily October 17, 2009 um 11:06 pm

the tarts look so pretty 🙂


Jessica October 17, 2009 um 11:22 pm

Ohmigosh I LOVE bananas. I eat them in everything. Would you believe I've never had bananas foster? I'd love to try these!


Amy October 17, 2009 um 11:33 pm

Incredible! Those are going to be on our table tomorrow, for sure!


Paragon2Pieces October 17, 2009 um 11:35 pm

every time i stop by here i am amazed, just amazed, at how every detail in every picture appears carefully thought-through. love it!


Jane October 17, 2009 um 11:47 pm

The dessert looks real good. I must say, Macys is a good place to shop and what they are doing is good.


Unknown October 17, 2009 um 11:48 pm

Everything you post always looks so good! Today I have to thank you for posting about the French Broad Chocolate Lounge. My family went today and when I took a bite of my son's mint chunk brownie, all I could think was "OH MY GOD!" Thank you for all the information and inspiration!!


Anonymous October 17, 2009 um 11:52 pm

mmm, these sound delicious! I really respect your attitude towards waste! Good for the planet, good for the budget, good for you.

And wow, I was just volunteering at a Feeding America event this past month! I was really surprising to see it pop up in your blog! I think that they're a wonderful organization. Its amazing how much they can actually do for those people who are worse off!


Kat October 17, 2009 um 11:55 pm

Nobody in my family likes bananas except me, and I'm allergic to them! However, I see sooo many ways this recipe could be adapted to other fruits on top. Or just plain. Let's just call caramel a fruit!


Lauren October 17, 2009 um 11:59 pm

I love the concept of this charity. My mom is very involved in a local charity focusing on at-risk kids & their families, so giving has always been a very important part of my life. Not to mention these tartelettes – simply delicious!


dicky October 18, 2009 um 12:16 am

love your blog! especially the hibiscus macarons…


Annie October 18, 2009 um 12:16 am

oh wow! those look delicious. Also I was just at Macy's today, I wish I had known about this 🙁


aandara October 18, 2009 um 12:24 am

Banana foster that must be delicious,,i usually make an upside down banana cake and my family love it


Anonymous October 18, 2009 um 12:27 am

Amazing pictures and you are right, anything with salted butter sauce is perfect.
I love these and will need to create a gluten free version, but it doesn't look too hard.
Thank you for the lovely recipe


Cindy October 18, 2009 um 12:33 am

I've done banana pie but never thought of doing tarts. They look delicious!


B October 18, 2009 um 12:36 am

The tartelettes are gorgeous! I will definitely make these for company at some point.


Damaris @Kitchen Corners October 18, 2009 um 12:38 am

this looks so good. I'm a fan of anything with bananas


april brooks October 18, 2009 um 12:45 am

Looks like a delicious recipe! Thanks for the giveaway.


Unknown October 18, 2009 um 12:48 am

I just love your recipes and most especially your food photography! I'm drooling over your Bananas Foster!!


Lisa~~ October 18, 2009 um 12:59 am

Oh these look delish!!


Jo October 18, 2009 um 1:12 am

Love your take on this banana foster recipe and the pastry tart looks really good. As usual fantastic pictures and presentation.


Ciao Chow Linda October 18, 2009 um 1:14 am

Your food looks like something from a 5-star restaurant.


Mercè October 18, 2009 um 1:17 am

Helen, as always beautiful pictures and fantastic recipe! You're better one is a lucky man! 😉


Rachel October 18, 2009 um 1:25 am

Those look ridiculously delicious!


Wendy October 18, 2009 um 1:28 am

ooooh, those do look tasty!!!


Cocoa Mango October 18, 2009 um 1:35 am

mmmm, now you've got me craving banana bread!


All That's Left Are The Crumbs October 18, 2009 um 1:50 am

I wish I could use leftover ingredients and come up with a recipe like this. It sounds heavenly. And anything with a drizzle of salted caramel is good in my book.


Anonymous October 18, 2009 um 1:53 am

Wow those look so good!!! Really cool of you to partner with Macys to help fight hunger. 🙂


♥peachkins♥ October 18, 2009 um 1:53 am

Banana foster? my daughter and hubby will absolutely love this!


Caminante October 18, 2009 um 2:08 am

As a born and bred South American, bananas and dulce de leche is one of my favorite combinations… and bananas and salted butter caramel seems like an equally yummy but sofisticated version!
Can't wait to try it!


A Bowl Of Mush October 18, 2009 um 2:16 am

Looks absolutely gorgeous!
Love your photos.


Lauren October 18, 2009 um 2:23 am

OMG, these look so amazing!! Thanks for sharing.


Michael October 18, 2009 um 2:24 am

The banana tarts look really, really tasty. Always enjoy your recipes; very creative – but most importantly they look do-able.


Abbie October 18, 2009 um 2:29 am

Mmm, delish!


Renee G October 18, 2009 um 2:36 am

I made an apple pie this afternoon. I wish I had seen your recipe first— it looks utterly delicious.
rsgrandinetti@yahoo(DOT)com


The Lovells October 18, 2009 um 2:43 am

mmmmm…yum. can't wait to try!


Melissa Zhang October 18, 2009 um 2:47 am

Those tartelettes sound amazing! :O


Ashley Dawn October 18, 2009 um 3:01 am

Way Yummo dessert AND a Macy's giveaway??!!! AWESOME. love your posts as always…


h October 18, 2009 um 3:33 am

Maaaan, there's a special spot in my stomach for desserts. Especially fruit-for-dessert.


Dani H October 18, 2009 um 3:57 am

This looks and sounds amazing! Thanks for the chance at the giveaway.


Bovine Bubbles and Hogwash LTD October 18, 2009 um 4:12 am

omg. love bananas foster


Rachelino October 18, 2009 um 4:12 am

I love something that you can put together quickly with what is in the pantry, but still incorporate fresh fruit. And a fruit that is available all year.


Esme October 18, 2009 um 4:28 am

Your banana fosters look delicious. I would not usually choose a desert like this-but your photos are telling me otherwise.


Anna October 18, 2009 um 4:29 am

I love your photographs and layouts (and stories) I've been going through some of your very very old posts and it's simply incredible how much your photography has changed and it makes me think that if I keep at it, I might have a chance too. This is a great charity to support and I love Macy's, and as usual those banana tarts look fabulous!


Ani October 18, 2009 um 5:09 am

What a wonderful way to keep the ole' muscles from cramping! Can't wait to try this recipe!!!! YUM!!!!


Lucy Vaserfirer October 18, 2009 um 5:21 am

I’m glad I’m not the only one who leaves little containers with lunch and dinner for my husband when I travel. Sometimes I think I go too far…but then I remember how much I love to spoil him!

I'm wondering, can you please share what type of tripod you used for that lovely first shot? Do you use some sort of boom apparatus to get that straight-down angle, or is there some other trick to it? I’m just starting to shop for my first tripod, so I would really appreciate any tips you can offer. Thanks!


SPRING OF LIFE CHURCH October 18, 2009 um 5:24 am

Perfection!! Say hi to B and tell him we enjoyed knowing he can cook too, The clams picture proved it.!


Angela October 18, 2009 um 5:30 am

would it need to be rescaled if I wanted to make it in a regular sized tart tin? Looks delicious but I don't have small tart pans


Lisa October 18, 2009 um 5:31 am

Those look amazing. I'd give anything to eat one.


AmyRuth October 18, 2009 um 5:34 am

Undeniably beautiful photography! Scrumptious description. I can't wait to make it. All the elements sound so magical and then you put them together! Mmmm
AmyRuth

Where can I get the tartelette rings?


terri October 18, 2009 um 5:38 am

what a fabulous cause! thanks for all you do to make this world a better place…

terri


Helene October 18, 2009 um 5:53 am

AmyRuth: I found these rings at Michaels for $1 each but you can also find them at JBPrince or Sur La Table.

Skip: you have enough crust and filling here for a standard 8-inch pie.

Lucy: I did not use a tripod for the first picture but any tripod worth its name will give you the optionf of vertical, horizontal or top down pictures. Look for one that feels right in your hands and that you can manoeuver around easily.

Thanks everyone!


Mimi October 18, 2009 um 5:56 am

Your tart look so lovely.
Hunger is everyone's problem. It is great to see that Macy's is part of the solution.
Mimi


Unknown October 18, 2009 um 6:05 am

It's my first few times browsing ur site and I'm tempted to try everything because everything looks so yummy!


ephrat October 18, 2009 um 6:09 am

Wow, these look so elegant! And thank you for helping give to those who are less fortunate than ourselves.


Micco October 18, 2009 um 6:11 am

You always come up with the most creatively luxurious flavor combinations.


Michelle {lovely little things} October 18, 2009 um 6:18 am

Those look delicious. I'm a huge fan of bananas foster French toast, sadly I've never tried the original. I'm saving myself for Brennan's in New Orleans – I hear their bananas foster is amazing!


Diane Schmidt October 18, 2009 um 6:20 am

Oh they look so yummy!
so creative!


Sakim October 18, 2009 um 6:41 am

That looks so delicious!


Alexandra October 18, 2009 um 6:48 am

Such sexy simplicity!

Your premise of 'no waste' is what I've always lived by and am glad to see others live in the same manner!

My favorite photo is the dripping caramel sauce


Sweetly Sophisticated October 18, 2009 um 6:50 am

bananas and salted caramel!! that looks SO divine! my mouth is salivating…


JC October 18, 2009 um 7:20 am

This is a great campaign! I had already shop for cause on 17th and will be hosting a holiday party later this month as well.

Thanks for the Bananas Foster Tartelettes idea, will be handy for my party.


grace October 18, 2009 um 7:50 am

tartelettes on tartelette's blog. i love it. 🙂
great creation–there are certain combinations of ingredients that draw me in like a magnet, and this is one of 'em!


maia @ sac à poche October 18, 2009 um 8:04 am

They look more than delicious, I'd like to have one!! ciao


Vanille October 18, 2009 um 8:23 am

Mmmmhhh…des tartelettes qui plairaient à mon homme !


Liz@sg October 18, 2009 um 11:11 am

Hi. I have been silently following your blog for some time. You got me hooked on macarons. Lovely photos as always.


Toby October 18, 2009 um 11:28 am

Love your blog– always great food and great pictures.


Tovah October 18, 2009 um 11:46 am

I had bananas foster at my bachelorette party and they were wonderful. This tart also looks wonderful.


Brie: Le Grand Fromage October 18, 2009 um 12:48 pm

wow, such a beautiful dessert! a fantastic way to remind others not to waste food and bring attention to a great campaign. excellent post!


Aimée October 18, 2009 um 12:55 pm

Bananas and caramel? My dear, you have hit this one out of the park.

Here's hoping your better half picks…me!


sweettoothjie October 18, 2009 um 1:51 pm

hope more people can benefit from this event. thanks for the recipe. i tried the pear chocolate cake the other day, my mom and my friends loved them. thanks again


Jessica October 18, 2009 um 1:58 pm

These look amazing! Your sweetheart is a very lucky man – with an even luckier stomach!

I love what Macy's is doing – I'm eager to hear the results of the campaign and see how much money they raise.


Unknown October 18, 2009 um 2:29 pm

those look so good!


Lisa Marie October 18, 2009 um 2:31 pm

I love to come and look at your blog you always have such beautiful photos I just think they are amazing!


Tina October 18, 2009 um 2:36 pm

Oh my – I also love bananas anything… especially with your divine salted caramel sauce (I gave out tins to my friends for Christmas last year!).
Thanks for such amazing posts!


Unknown October 18, 2009 um 2:41 pm

You are an inspiration!


Lucy Vaserfirer October 18, 2009 um 3:29 pm

Thanks so much for the info!


Unknown October 18, 2009 um 3:36 pm

Oooh, the almond-hazelnut frangipane filling looks and sounds delicious! 🙂 My boyfriend loves bananas so maybe I will try this for him someday! Thank you!!


Amy A October 18, 2009 um 4:25 pm

These tarts look lovely!


Kim October 18, 2009 um 5:04 pm

Yummy!! Oh, how I only wish that I can bake…


SiSi Sparkles October 18, 2009 um 5:20 pm

Those look so delicious! Thanks for sharing some recipes too. Please enter me for the giveaway.
Thanks for the chance.
origamibysisi[at]gmail[dot]com


Branwen October 18, 2009 um 5:28 pm

Beautiful Tarts!


Sara's Test Kitchen October 18, 2009 um 5:33 pm

They look delicious. And what a great cause to bring attention to. Thank you for posting.


emily October 18, 2009 um 5:38 pm

mmmm, that looks so yummy!


Caroline October 18, 2009 um 5:49 pm

I've never liked bananas foster, but those look amazing! I may have to make those soon!


Brooke Rane October 18, 2009 um 6:01 pm

this recipe sounds divine—thanks for sharing! and thanks for the chance at winning a great giveaway!


Mani October 18, 2009 um 6:30 pm

Thank you so much for raising awareness and as usual your recipes and pictures are a cut above the rest…..


Jingle October 18, 2009 um 6:32 pm

This looks amazing! My husband is a big Bananas Foster fan, and these would thrill him! Thanks!


Ash October 18, 2009 um 6:36 pm

Oh, I just love this!! such a cozy yummy dish!


Rebecca October 18, 2009 um 6:37 pm

I just recently found your site from The Pioneer Woman's site. I am really enjoying your posts. Your photography is beautiful. There is so much talent out there, and people like you and Ree have encouraged me to get in the kitchen more often and try out new things. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge with those of us that are unsure of what to do in the kitchen. 🙂


Ash October 18, 2009 um 6:38 pm

oops, that comment was meant for the spiced Quince crumbles… but your banana treat looks divine too!


Anonymous October 18, 2009 um 6:41 pm

As a kid, my dad would fry bananas in butter and sprinkle them with cinnamon sugar….a treat his Mom would make for him in Brazil…

I wonder, what is the origin of bananas foster???


Simo October 18, 2009 um 6:45 pm

Che meraviglia…sono dei piccoli capolavori!!!!!!


mirabelle October 18, 2009 um 7:01 pm

perhaps the salted butter caramel will make me like bananas more! 😉


Kirsten October 18, 2009 um 7:05 pm

You and your blog inspire me almost daily. Thank you for your art and for sharing it all with us!
Macy's is one of my most favorite stores! Mostly because of the awesome Martha Stewart kitchen stuff they sell there. Gotta love it!
Thanks!


Reesha October 18, 2009 um 7:40 pm

Yummy!! Does Macys ship these too?


Jaime October 18, 2009 um 7:53 pm

those look divine!! I love bananas foster


Rachelle October 18, 2009 um 7:54 pm

I have one word … Yummeee!


Cindy October 18, 2009 um 8:06 pm

such a great cause. we donate to the food bank of nyc around this time and will look into the program from macy's. thanks for the giveaway and i love those tarts!


Elysse October 18, 2009 um 8:33 pm

these look delicious! you can never have too many bananas…


Maegen October 18, 2009 um 8:46 pm

that looks sooooo good


Talia October 18, 2009 um 8:50 pm

If I could "throw together" something like this you'd have to roll me out of my house! How do you stay so svelte? Yum.


Emilie October 18, 2009 um 9:43 pm

I absolutely love your blog!! The photos are always so amazing =)


Lisa Johnson October 18, 2009 um 9:51 pm

A delicious recipe and giveaway! Thank you! ; )


Jenny October 18, 2009 um 10:20 pm

Those are some beautiful tarts, I love the drizzle on top.


shaz October 18, 2009 um 10:56 pm

What amazing tarts, love the photo of the caramel in the jug! Great work highlighting an important campaign too.


Robin October 18, 2009 um 11:10 pm

Those look amazing, even to me, someone who can take bananas only in small doses. I am right with you on the being frugal in the kitchen, I have sat in one friends kitchen amazed at what she considered to be trash. Not in my kitchen!!


Luca October 18, 2009 um 11:26 pm

Delicious! Can the cornstarch be left out?

Thanks,

Raluca


Elizabeth October 18, 2009 um 11:31 pm

yummm, i love bananas!


Amy October 18, 2009 um 11:39 pm

I check your site every day, love your photos and recipes. I would love to win the Macy's gift card!


linda October 18, 2009 um 11:45 pm

dear helen,
i admire your generosity of spirit
& i will definitely stop by macy's to donate.
thank you for making us more aware.


Evelyn October 18, 2009 um 11:45 pm

This looks yum!


[email protected] October 19, 2009 um 12:37 am

Thank you again for beautiful pictures and a great recipe. I'll try it at home and I'm pretty sure it'll pass!


angela@spinachtiger October 19, 2009 um 12:58 am

I completely understand being practical in the kitchen. I've been saving money to go to the food buzz festival and every food penny is accounted for. And, I will eat anything that has salty caramel.


Maria October 19, 2009 um 1:11 am

I hate wasting food too. That is why my neighbors love me:) They always get my baked goods. We really try hard not to waste, we reduce, reuse, and recycle:)


irene October 19, 2009 um 1:26 am

sounds like a great organization, thanks!


Rebecca October 19, 2009 um 1:52 am

Looks amazing!!


adamanderin October 19, 2009 um 2:02 am

Those look AMAZING!! I think it is time to go look for my midnight snack!


Julie @ Willow Bird Baking October 19, 2009 um 2:38 am

Sweet little banana tarts!! Mmm!


Marina October 19, 2009 um 2:50 am

Perfect reason to leave a comment. I've been wanting to mention that I think I was standing next to you the day you were taking pictures of Miette. Friday afternoon? I ordered a macaroon and I think you did too… I should have said hello, cause I read your blog all the time.


Nidhi October 19, 2009 um 2:59 am

How I wish I had read this yesterday. I would have replied better to the emails asking me "what should we get" when I hosted them for dinner. Great job, as usual, Helen!


Simones Kitchen October 19, 2009 um 3:08 am

These look absolutely delicious Helen. Love bananas!


Nads' Bakery October 19, 2009 um 3:15 am

Your photos are always so amazing!!


biqibiqi October 19, 2009 um 3:15 am

My housemates and I love bananas! I'm going to have to try this. Thanks!


Cat of Le Chat Designs October 19, 2009 um 3:25 am

What a beautiful reconstruction of bananas foster. As someone who lived in New Orleans for over 25 years, I appreciate your culinary artistry. I'd love to be your CA(chef's assistant) anytime. Kindest thoughts, Cat


Keri Grant October 19, 2009 um 3:27 am

What beauties….they look delicious! I think my husband would love these!


leebee86 October 19, 2009 um 4:07 am

MMM I cannot wait to try these!


Laura B. October 19, 2009 um 4:46 am

Looks delicious!


Jen October 19, 2009 um 5:18 am

I love the way your mind works! I just don't know how you come up with such delicious evilness! You are awesome!!


Renee October 19, 2009 um 5:37 am

I would love to eat this bananas foster right now. I'm not sure I will get around to making it for myself, but…. it will make a great dessert for company. I'll just skip the dinner part and serve just this fabulous dessert. My guests will swoon.


edina October 19, 2009 um 6:15 am

Those tartelettes look fabulous – my stomach is growling!


Helene October 19, 2009 um 6:31 am

Luca: the cornstarch is there to make the crumb/texture lighter. You could leave it out or use potato starch, tapioca starch or very fine powdered rice flour.

marina: Yes! I was there friday afternoon! The world sure is small 🙂


La Pastry Chef October 19, 2009 um 6:40 am

mmm salted butter caramel sauce.

Cute napkins 🙂


Jess Chou October 19, 2009 um 6:50 am

I was just thinking of making banana fosters. Gorgeous!


Ria Mathew October 19, 2009 um 6:56 am

Irresistible! I wish I was one of your neighbors!


sweetakery October 19, 2009 um 8:05 am

Wow, those look gorgeous!…yummm! im going to try this recipe!


Adi October 19, 2009 um 9:48 am

Love Macy's.

Love Banana Foster.

adiluria [at] yahoo [dot] com


NKP October 19, 2009 um 10:49 am

Mmm, I want those for breakfast!


Sophia Wang October 19, 2009 um 11:14 am

"I'm hungry"
-my stomach


adelle October 19, 2009 um 11:47 am

yum!!!


Allie October 19, 2009 um 12:06 pm

They look beautiful!!


Anonymous October 19, 2009 um 12:42 pm

I love your site. One day I will actually attempt to make a recipe. Yours are so beautiful that I don't want to let them down by trying one out!


Meg October 19, 2009 um 12:43 pm

I wish I liked bananas because these tarts look amazing!


Julie October 19, 2009 um 12:58 pm

I just found your blog and already I've bookmarked a bunch of recipes I *must* try 🙂


paula October 19, 2009 um 12:59 pm

what a great cause.

oh, and these look divine. kind of like I want to reach through my screen and enjoy.


RecipeGirl October 19, 2009 um 1:00 pm

I kind of laughed when I heard David say that about the 40 posts in draft too. I might have 3 in draft on a good day!

When I worked for a caterer back in college, bananas foster was my favorite thing to serve at parties. The guests loved it. These look like an amazing adaptation!


NikiTheo October 19, 2009 um 1:54 pm

I was just at Macy's yesterday and I had them round up my total (I spent $56 and some change, so they rounded it up to $60) for a donation. Waste drives me crazy! I hate when people leave food on their plate or throw it away, especially knowing that half of what was on their plate is probably the same amount of food that an entire family in a poor country is eating all day. I run a food team that serves homeless people at a shelter in the suburbs of Chicago (The organization is call PADS). I love feeding my friends and family all the time and it feels good when I make them happy, but it feels even better to know that the warm freshly home-cooked meal I made for a bunch of guys who aren't getting the nutrition they need to sustain a healthy lifestyle. I'm all for anything that has anything to do with providing hungry people good food!!!
And your tartelette looks so amazing, I kinda drooled just now 🙂


Unknown October 19, 2009 um 2:26 pm

Thanks for sponsoring such a great giveaway, Helen!


Janet October 19, 2009 um 2:38 pm

Fantastic use of extra bananas… And, as lovely as everything you create!

Was at Macy's yesterday to replace the Martha Stewart cake stand I broke. 🙁 Love everything they offer and appreciate your Give away!

Best to you – and continued success. Thanks for keeping it fun too!


Thao Phan October 19, 2009 um 2:38 pm

You are definatly going to get me to make this salted caramel thing that I've been seeing poping up all over the place. One of my gf brought me some salt and I'm definatly going to try it soon!


T from Pascere October 19, 2009 um 2:52 pm

These look amazing. I was just talking about making caramelized bananas last night and now this recipe!


HeatherClark October 19, 2009 um 3:03 pm

I just found your blog and love all the gorgeous food pictures, especially now that Gourmet has folded this is the perfect place to get my fix!


Anonymous October 19, 2009 um 3:09 pm

Love anything with salted caramel!


Mom October 19, 2009 um 3:13 pm

I love your blog. It inspires me.


Yossi October 19, 2009 um 3:20 pm

You're blog has been an inspiration to me. Thanks! 🙂


Anonymous October 19, 2009 um 3:39 pm

Lovely as usual, Helen!


Nico October 19, 2009 um 3:40 pm

I also did banana foster this weekend, delicious!!
I'm in for the gift card.
thanks


Jenny Tan October 19, 2009 um 3:56 pm

Absolutely Yummy! 🙂 Will have to try it some day. THanks for sharing Helen!


Whisk-At-Hand October 19, 2009 um 4:07 pm

Yum! These look beautiful and delicious. And the reflection in the spoons is really cool! Thanks for the giveaway!


Heather Sabra October 19, 2009 um 4:14 pm

A great combination(banana-almond-caramel)and a great cause.


Craig October 19, 2009 um 4:21 pm

Wow! Another amazing looking tart that is based on my favorite dessert of all time. I will definitely be trying to impress the wife with this one.


Vivian October 19, 2009 um 4:24 pm

I _especially_ love your recipes lately because I love salted butter too! Thanks for the lovely posts


Dandy October 19, 2009 um 4:24 pm

My fiance doesn't waste food ever. He is of the restaurant mentality also. So veg scraps make a stock and if we have shrimp the shells get roasted and added to it. Its a nice balance because I only see a recipe and he sees what we can do with everything else.

That recipe looks to die for.


fresh365 October 19, 2009 um 4:25 pm

What a wonderful idea to donate. And of course I can't resist Bananas Foster!


Dolce October 19, 2009 um 4:28 pm

These tartlettes are so posh looking and such a cute upscale from the regular banana foster!


lilmissfoodie October 19, 2009 um 4:36 pm

i love your photos! every morning, i wake up and check to see if there's a calming new photo that i can leave on my web browser as background all day! 🙂 (not without salt is also great for that! thanks for the tip!)


White Toast with Butter October 19, 2009 um 4:47 pm

What is the latest on your book? This is my comment to enter the giveaway too!


The Duo Dishes October 19, 2009 um 5:10 pm

We do our best not to waste food. It's a shame to see people just throw stuff away. This is a great cause.


Eunice October 19, 2009 um 5:20 pm

mouthwatering as always!


From My Heart To His October 19, 2009 um 5:24 pm

I love your website. It's very artistic…and yummy!


Anonymous October 19, 2009 um 5:58 pm

I don't like bananas, but something about them being caramelized makes it…sort of ok. Yum.


Anonymous October 19, 2009 um 7:10 pm

I love your sweet blog and tweets. Inspiring 🙂


Jeannette October 19, 2009 um 7:19 pm

macys gift cards?? that's just perfect for the christmas holiday!! i have some girlfriends to shop for still!!


Fun Frazzled Follower October 19, 2009 um 7:24 pm

I think this is a perfect desert for fall…. I can't wait to get this in front of dinner guests.


Mela October 19, 2009 um 7:51 pm

Delicious! My mom and I were talking about what to do with all of the new ripe bananas on thier tree- this is perfect. Thanks!


Risa F October 19, 2009 um 8:05 pm

I adore you, hey could you swing by my place…I am in terrible need of a macaron lesson.


Muffin October 19, 2009 um 8:13 pm

Your pictures are simply amazing. And the food looks even more delightful. I wish I could try them all! Mmmm!


Julie October 19, 2009 um 9:00 pm

Frangipane with anything is wonderful, but with bananas and caramel? That sounds like magic.


BentoGirl October 19, 2009 um 9:01 pm

Wow – this looks AMAZING! I'm gonna have to try this soon. like this week. no, i can't wait that long….it'll have to be tonight!


manda October 19, 2009 um 9:44 pm

I think I might actually be able to make these!! YUMMM!!!!


paddlemama October 19, 2009 um 10:30 pm

Love all the banana recipes!


Unknown October 19, 2009 um 10:53 pm

Thanks for promoting such a great cause!

Those tartelettes look awesome!


Margo October 19, 2009 um 11:33 pm

Have you read Hungry Planet: What the World Eats? It's awesome, seriously. The authors (a writer and a photographer) visited families around the world and then took a picture of each family with a week's worth of groceries – from a family in Paris to refugees in Sudan. I think you'd love it.


Lola October 19, 2009 um 11:42 pm

These tarts look absolutely fabuluous and full of flavour..thanks for the post,and waiting for more of these amazing recipes.


Sarah October 19, 2009 um 11:51 pm

Delicious! This would be an excellent recipe for our baking club, Easy Bake Coven.


margot October 19, 2009 um 11:59 pm

Beautiful!!!
Delicious!!!
Very nice fhotos.
Margot


Littlefoot October 20, 2009 um 12:03 am

Is there anything edible on this earth that you can't make into an artistic masterpiece? Methinks not 🙂
Bananas Foster is a family favorite. I will definitely be making this for my loved ones.


Holly M. Wendt October 20, 2009 um 12:26 am

Such gorgeous tartelettes, and even more beautiful to see so many people championing a good cause.


China Team October 20, 2009 um 1:08 am

Love the idea of Bananas Foster in tartelette form. And, I too, hate waste, so this is great!


www.DE HARINA Y DE MAIZ.com October 20, 2009 um 2:09 am

i´ll definietely be making these soon.
i still have to practice on the salted caramel sauce to make perfect. loved the pics.
greetings from Mexico!


Meryl October 20, 2009 um 3:16 am

I love your recipes and photos!


Sarah October 20, 2009 um 3:58 am

There are so many comments on this post!!


Ivy October 20, 2009 um 4:25 am

I had extra banana's last week and made a 2 layer banana cake with buttershots cream cheese frosting. It came out pretty good. It's fun to be creative with brown bananas.:)


Janet October 20, 2009 um 4:40 am

Those look delicious!


Sarah October 20, 2009 um 4:46 am

YUM, I've always wanted to try banana's foster, and this looks a little less intimidating!


amna October 20, 2009 um 5:09 am

one dollar feeds seven? that's amazing!


Betsy October 20, 2009 um 7:22 am

These tartelettes look lovely. I've just begun reading your blog and am enjoying it!


Unknown October 20, 2009 um 12:41 pm

Beautiful dessert! And a wonderful cause for Macy's to support.
~ Kathy


The Witbecks October 20, 2009 um 12:55 pm

I just love bananas fosters! I can't wait to try this!!!


Anonymous October 20, 2009 um 1:36 pm

Bananas are sooo good for you and are said to promote excellent circulation. This is a great way of helping yourself and treating yourself at the same time! –Jude


Marilyn October 20, 2009 um 2:31 pm

This sounds completely delicious! I love bananas foster-with shortbread crust they would be so much better!


Barbara October 20, 2009 um 3:21 pm

You inspire me to bake again. Thank you!


Diana October 20, 2009 um 3:40 pm

Looks so delectable!


Jennifer October 20, 2009 um 4:01 pm

I love your photos! I don't even really like bananas, but your tartlettes look great.


Emily R. October 20, 2009 um 4:02 pm

My dad used to make us bananas foster as a special treat. I will definitely be making these sometime very soon.


Macaroni and Cheesecake October 20, 2009 um 4:20 pm

Those sound great! What a great idea to promote what Macy's is doing to feed the hungry.


Hailey October 20, 2009 um 4:30 pm

It's nice to see there are other foodies' who hate waste! Thanks for the "come together" awareness. Nice twist on the Banana's Foster…looks delicious!


Space Monkey 1138 October 20, 2009 um 4:34 pm

What a great idea! Looks incredible!


It's Me – Jen E! October 20, 2009 um 4:38 pm

Bananas Foster AND Macy's – these are a few of my favorite things!!


Patricia Scarpin October 20, 2009 um 4:57 pm

The banana tartelettes got my so hypnotized I almost forgot to comment, darling! That luscious, shiny caramel… OH, my!

This is a wonderful initiative, Helen.


Renuka October 20, 2009 um 5:05 pm

Hi,
I am new to Macarons and your site helped me a lot…I cannot believe I missed out on these great treats, thanks to my first visit to Paris earlier this month I had a chance to savor the ones at Pierre Hermes and I was hooked.I have not stopped baking and experimenting since then. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge with us . Your husband is a lucky man and I hope one day I can say the same of my husband.By the way I did participate in the donate $5 at Macy's.
Thanks Helen and keep post all those sumptious recipe and even more beautiful photographs on your blog.


Unknown October 20, 2009 um 5:33 pm

yum! bananas foster is one of my major food weaknesses. in any shape or form, it makes me smile 🙂 thanks for this new recipe!


Shauna October 20, 2009 um 6:11 pm

These look divine! Every element sounds amazingly delicious on their own, so I can only imagine what it is like when they are put together.


Natalie October 20, 2009 um 6:19 pm

Wow, this looks DELICIOUS! I can't stop salivating. Hmm, maybe too much information there…


Crystallin October 20, 2009 um 6:22 pm

Your photography leaves me starving! I can't wait to make these. I even think I have all of the ingredients. so much for making Banana bread.


The Ellsies October 20, 2009 um 6:51 pm

Thanks for the giveaway!


Unknown October 20, 2009 um 6:54 pm

AB loves bananas foster… i will definitely have to try this recipe ASAP!


Aditi Fogispap October 20, 2009 um 7:09 pm

I love the fruit as it is, but this recipe looks yummy!


Mariel October 20, 2009 um 7:20 pm

Your photos are always so inspiring. I think I will make this soon, but substitute my cinnamon ice cream for the vanilla. This is adorable and a wonderful new take on the normally sloppy looking bananas foster. Thanks.


Sandra October 20, 2009 um 7:32 pm

I love your blog! I'm adding it to my new rss feed now 🙂 The photos, the recipes, the stories. It's all fantastic.


***ANDREA*** October 20, 2009 um 8:12 pm

This looks delicious!


Stephanie October 20, 2009 um 8:14 pm

Those look absolutely amazing!! I just wish my husband liked bananas!


alee October 20, 2009 um 8:14 pm

Not sure if my previous try made it. I think these banana foster tartelettes look amazing. I also have a lot of frozen peaches and hope to try the peach pate a fruits some time soon.


Unknown October 20, 2009 um 9:02 pm

OH… just looking at these tartelettes made my whole day! I will do almost anything or salted caramel… And I will definitely join in on the Macy's Come Together campaign and donate… Thanks!


Em October 20, 2009 um 9:25 pm

I've had Bananas Foster on my To Make list for so long. Maybe this will finally give me the motivation!


Heidi October 20, 2009 um 9:31 pm

Those tartlettes look amazing! And yay, gift card giveaway! I'm in!

[email protected]


Jelli October 20, 2009 um 9:36 pm

I'm so happy to see that Macy's is really doing something to benefit society! My husband and I love having guests over, but with a very limited budget, are only able to host a few times per month. We'd love to have these gift certificates to be able to purchase Christmas gifts this year. We barely scraped by to purchase airfare to visit my family in the USA (his 1st visit to meet my extended family!!) and really have no idea what to do about gifting besides delicious baked goods (which are always a pleasure to give and receive). Thanks for a great original recipe and once again for spreading the holiday cheer with Macy's.


Angela October 20, 2009 um 9:47 pm

this looks delicious!


Anonymous October 20, 2009 um 9:57 pm

These tarts look and sound delicious. How cool that Macy's contacted you to get involved in such a great cause!

Ashley


Megan Swartz October 20, 2009 um 10:28 pm

Sounds delicious! I am jealous!


The Girl October 20, 2009 um 11:31 pm

Your hubby sounds like mine! Bananas are a fav in our house. I'm definitely going to have to take a stab at this one.


Caroline October 20, 2009 um 11:35 pm

YUM


Rhonda October 20, 2009 um 11:51 pm

Your pictures are just awesome. The tarts look so delicious. And yes, I plan recipes around using all that I can to not waste as taught to us by my grandparents.


Abby October 21, 2009 um 12:18 am

I love bananas and so does my little one! He'd be all over this (even with the nuts – he's not allergic.)


Anonymous October 21, 2009 um 1:35 am

Those are wonderful pictures as always! I love it. I can not wait to give it a try.

Sumeyye Sazak


Erin October 21, 2009 um 3:18 am

The bananas foster dessert looks delicious! I love all your photos.


Nutmeg Nanny October 21, 2009 um 3:25 am

Beautiful tarts! I think it's great that you getting involved in Come Together campaign. I was watching my tivoed Top Chef and I learned a lot about this great program. Good for you for getting involved:)


Lismi October 21, 2009 um 3:45 am

Mmmm…. *drooling*
Beautiful work as usual =).Thank you for sharing this.
Good on Macy and you for raising this hunger awareness Helen. It's hard to believe that even with $1 we can feed 7 people.


Kathy Walker October 21, 2009 um 4:11 am

These look delectable. I love bananas foster and this is a wonderful way to serve them…ice cream on the side? 🙂


SaraLe October 21, 2009 um 4:15 am

Love your site.

f117f4(at)comcast(dot)net


SaraBeth October 21, 2009 um 4:22 am

this recipe looks delicious. can't wait to try it!


Cakelaw October 21, 2009 um 4:44 am

Goodness, these tarts look delicious!!


Bellameru October 21, 2009 um 4:56 am

Mmm, bananas P:


suri October 21, 2009 um 8:41 am

lovwe the blog and what you are doing promoting this charity
suri


momgateway October 21, 2009 um 3:27 pm

Pretty photos and simple recipes to try!


Mary Anna October 21, 2009 um 4:49 pm

I read your blog everyday to get my recommended daily allowance of sugar! It's like food porn! Keep up the good work!


Miriam Leigh October 21, 2009 um 5:24 pm

I'm so into bananas foster *anything*… I can't wait to try these. They look so rich and light at the same time… lovely.


Pity October 21, 2009 um 5:43 pm

these look so delicious i have to bake them because i definitely MUST try them! lovely photos and plates and everything, as always,
cheers!


Unknown October 21, 2009 um 7:07 pm

Damn you're good.


Anu October 21, 2009 um 7:20 pm

lovely banana dessert 🙂


Nama October 21, 2009 um 8:25 pm

Your tarts, as always, are divine. I love your photos! And I love Macys. Maybe I'll get lucky?


Yudith October 21, 2009 um 11:56 pm

I have been thinking about doing this actually–thanks for the reminder! Gorgeous blog!


pastry studio October 23, 2009 um 1:19 am

I love Bananas Foster and the addition of nuts and sable to the mix make this all the more irresistible. Mesmerizing photos as always!


TheIsom8 October 26, 2009 um 3:42 pm

I love banana treats. This might be one that even my banana picky husband loves…thank you for sharing!


mouni October 27, 2009 um 4:50 pm

your photos are amazing! despite the effect that my english is bad (because i speak french), i tried to read and follow your blog every week 🙂

Mouni


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