Chocolate Torch Flambe with Caramelized Bananas

Slice bananas lengthwise into halves. Set aside.

Break dark chocolate into small pieces and place in a heatproof bowl. Set over a pot of simmering water (double boiler) — do not let the bowl touch the water.

Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer around the edges, about 3-4 minutes. Watch closely — you want steam, not boiling.

Pour hot cream over broken dark chocolate. Let sit 1 minute to melt, then stir from the center outward until silky and glossy.

Stir in butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue whisking until the ganache is smooth and slightly thickened, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and keep warm.

Melt butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until foaming subsides, about 1 minute.

Add brown sugar to the skillet — it will melt and bubble aggressively. Stir briefly to combine with butter, creating a caramel base.

Lay banana halves cut-side down into the caramel. Cook 2-3 minutes until the cut side is deeply golden and caramelized. Sprinkle cinnamon over the bananas.

Flip bananas and cook the other side for 1-2 minutes until softened but still holding shape. Remove skillet from heat.

Pour warm chocolate ganache over the caramelized bananas in the skillet — it should sizzle and bubble dramatically.

Sprinkle white sugar in an even layer over the top of the ganache. This is your torch fuel.

Using a butane torch on medium-high, apply flame directly to the white sugar layer. Move the torch in sweeping circles, 4-6 inches from the surface, for 60-90 seconds until the sugar caramelizes into a golden, crackling crust. The flame should turn from blue to orange as it hits the sugar.

Remove from heat immediately once the sugar is amber and caramelized. Let rest 30 seconds — the surface will continue to darken slightly.

Spoon portions onto dessert plates or serve directly from the skillet at the table with a flourish. Always place the hot skillet on a trivet, heat-safe pad, or protective surface to prevent damage to furniture and eliminate burn risk. Serve immediately while the crust is still crackling.