Must-Try Desserts: Incorporating Banana Extract for Enhanced Flavor with Cool Runnings Foods in Canada

Introduction: A Taste of the Tropics

As Canadian palates continue to diversify and embrace global flavors, banana extract emerges as a versatile and

delicious ingredient to elevate your dessert recipes. Known for its strong, sweet flavor, banana extract provided

by Cool Runnings Foods is a perfect addition to your baking arsenal. In this blog, we'll explore some delightful

desserts where banana extract can shine, bringing a rich, tropical flair to traditional treats.

Why Use Banana Extract?

Banana extract is made by distilling real bananas into a concentrated form, capturing the essence of this beloved fruit in every

drop. Unlike mashed bananas, the extract imparts a more intense banana flavor without altering the texture of

your desserts. It’s an excellent choice for when you want a burst of banana taste without additional moisture.

Desserts to Transform with Banana Extract

1. Banana Cream Pie

Elevate this classic dessert using banana extract to intensify the banana flavor in the filling. Combine it with

fresh bananas and a creamy custard set in a flaky pie crust, topped with whipped cream for a decadent finish.

• Ingredients:

• 1 pre-baked pie shell

• 3 bananas, sliced

• 2 cups whole milk

• ¾ cup sugar

• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tablespoon banana extract

• Whipped cream, for topping

• Method:

1. In a saucepan, mix sugar, flour, and salt. Gradually stir in milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring

2. constantly, until thickened.

3. Beat eggs in a separate bowl. Gradually incorporate some of the hot mixture into the eggs to

4. temper them, then add the egg mixture back into the saucepan.

5. Bring to a gentle boil and stir in banana extract. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

6. Layer bananas in the pie shell and pour the custard over the bananas. Chill until set.

7. Top with whipped cream before serving.

2. Banana Foster Cheesecake

This dessert combines the creamy texture of cheesecake with the caramelized sweetness of banana foster.

Banana extract in the cheesecake batter enhances the fruit's natural flavors, creating a rich and cohesive taste.

• Ingredients:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs

• 3 tablespoons sugar

• 3 tablespoons butter, melted

• 3 packages (8 ounces each) of cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon banana extract

• 3 large eggs

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed

• ½ cup brown sugar

• ½ cup butter

• ¼ cup dark rum

• Method:

1. Mix graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter and press into the bottom of a

2. springform pan. Bake at 325°F for 10 minutes.

3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and banana extract, then add eggs one at a time.

4. Fold in mashed bananas.

5. Pour filling over crust and bake for about 50-60 minutes.

6. For the topping, combine brown sugar and butter in a skillet until melted. Add sliced bananas

7. and rum; cook until bananas are soft.

8. Let cheesecake cool, then top with banana foster mixture.

Conclusion: Embracing Banana Extract in Your Baking

Using banana extract from Cool Runnings Foods in your desserts is a simple way to infuse robust banana flavor

into your baking projects. Whether you’re crafting a pie, a cake, or a batch of cookies, a little extract goes a long

way in enhancing the overall flavor profile of your sweets. Explore these recipes and discover how versatile

banana extract can be in your culinary creations right here in Canada. Happy baking!

Frequently Asked Question

Q: What is banana extract?

A: Banana extract is a concentrated flavoring made from pure bananas. It provides a strong

banana flavor without the additional moisture of using actual fruit, making it ideal for enhancing desserts and baked goods.

Q: How do I use banana extract in my baking?

A: Banana extract can be used in any recipe where you want to add banana flavor. Typically,

a few drops or teaspoons, depending on the recipe size and desired flavor intensity, is enough

to impart a rich banana taste to cakes, cookies, smoothies, and desserts.

Q: Can I substitute banana extract for fresh bananas?

A: While banana extract can enhance the banana flavor in recipes, it does not provide the same texture or bulk as

fresh bananas. It is best used in conjunction with, rather than as a substitute

for, fresh bananas in recipes that require the fruit's physical presence for moisture and structure.

Q: Is banana extract suitable for vegan and gluten-free recipes?

A: Yes, banana extract from Cool Runnings Foods is suitable for both vegan and gluten-free

diets. It does not contain any animal products or gluten, making it a versatile addition to various

dietary needs.

Q: How much banana extract should I use in my recipes?

A: The amount of banana extract needed can vary depending on the recipe and how prominent

you want the banana flavor to be. Generally, starting with 1 teaspoon of extract per batch of cake

or cookies is a good guideline. Adjust according to taste.

Q: How should I store banana extract?

A: Keep banana extract in a cool, dark place such as a pantry or cupboard. Properly stored, it can

last for a long time, retaining its flavor and potency. Ensure the cap is tightly sealed after each use

to prevent evaporation and degradation of flavor.

Q: Can banana extract be used in beverages?

A: Absolutely! The banana extract can be a delicious addition to beverages, such as smoothies, milkshakes, or

cocktails, giving them a robust banana flavor without the thickness that actual bananas would add.

Q: Are there any health benefits to using banana extract?

A: While banana extract does provide the flavor of bananas, it does not contain the same nutritional benefits as the

whole fruit, such as fiber. However, it is a low-calorie way to add flavor to dishes

without adding sugar or fat.

Q: Where can I purchase Cool Runnings Foods' banana extract in Canada?

A: You can purchase our banana extract and other products at various grocery stores across

Canada or directly from our website. Visit the Cool Runnings Foods website to find a store near

you or to

order online.

Q: What are some creative ways to use banana extract besides baking?

A: Banana extract is not limited to baked goods. Try adding it to pancake batter, oatmeal, yogurt,

or even tea for a tropical twist. It's also great in homemade ice cream and frosting recipes.