Pastry Chef Anna Polyviou's Banana Fun-Dae Split: A Sugar-Loaded Dessert Spectacle
The classic banana split is undergoing a bold, sugar-loaded transformation, as pastry chef Anna Polyviou elevates this nostalgic favourite into an all-out dessert spectacle. Her creation, the Banana Fun-Dae Split, is packed with fudgy brownies, rich chocolate sauce, and over-the-top toppings, pushing indulgence to new heights. This dessert is messy, playful, and unapologetically extra, perfectly reflecting Polyviou's signature style that celebrates fun and extravagance in every bite.
Recipe Details: Banana Fun-Dae Split
This dessert serves four people and combines a variety of sweet components for a truly decadent experience. The assembly process is designed to be as enjoyable as the eating, making it a perfect treat for gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients for Banana Fun-Dae Split
- 3 medium bananas, halved lengthways
- 8 scoops Neapolitan ice cream (strawberry, vanilla, and chocolate)
- Whipped cream in a can
- 4 maraschino cherries with stems
- 4 tablespoons peanut nibs
- Chocolate brownie, cut into cubes
- Chocolate fudge sauce, warm
Chocolate Brownie Recipe
To make the fudgy brownies required for this dessert, follow these steps carefully. The brownies are a key component, adding a rich, chocolatey texture that complements the other elements.
Ingredients for Chocolate Brownie
- ½ cup (100 g) unsalted butter
- 1½ cups (250 g) chopped dark chocolate
- ½ cup (100 g) caster sugar
- ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup (100 g) plain flour
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon cacao powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste
- Pinch of sea salt
Method for Chocolate Brownie
- Preheat oven to 165°C fan-forced. Line a 27 × 17 cm baking tin with baking paper.
- Melt butter and dark chocolate together, stirring until smooth and well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and sugars until fully combined.
- Slowly whisk the melted chocolate mixture into the egg and sugar mixture.
- Sift flour, baking powder, and cacao powder together, then fold into the wet ingredients along with vanilla paste and sea salt.
- Pour the batter into the prepared tin and smooth the top. Bake for 25–30 minutes until just set but fudgy in the centre.
- Allow the brownie to cool completely before cutting into cubes for use in the dessert.
Chocolate Fudge Sauce Recipe
This warm, glossy sauce adds a luxurious touch to the Banana Fun-Dae Split, enhancing the overall chocolate experience.
Ingredients for Chocolate Fudge Sauce
- ¼ cup (50 g) dark chocolate, chopped
- ½ cup (125 ml) thickened cream
- ¼ cup (50 g) brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons (25 g) unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste
- Pinch of sea salt
Method for Chocolate Fudge Sauce
- Place all ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce becomes glossy and slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and keep warm until ready to serve with the dessert.
To Assemble Banana Fun-Dae Split
- Spoon warm chocolate fudge sauce into a serving glass and add brownie cubes.
- Top with scoops of Neapolitan ice cream.
- Stand banana halves upright around the glass for a classic split presentation.
- Pipe whipped cream generously on top of the ice cream.
- Finish with additional chocolate fudge sauce, peanut nibs, and a maraschino cherry for the perfect garnish.
This dessert is not just a treat but an experience, encouraging creativity and indulgence in every layer. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a dessert enthusiast, the Banana Fun-Dae Split offers a playful twist on a beloved classic that is sure to impress.
