1 1/2 cups maple syrup

3/4 cup heavy cream

3/4 cup chopped pecans

6 bananas, peeled and halved lengthwise and then crosswise

6 tbs unsalted butter

vanilla ice cream (optional)

banana chips (optional)

in a saucepan, combine the maple syrup, cream, and pecans. bring the liquid to a gentle boil over moderate heat, and cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until it is thickened, about 18-20 minutes. in a large skillet, saute the bananas in the butter over moderately high heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are browned lightly. transfer the bananas to a heated platter and spoon the sauce over them or, if desired, use the bananas and the sauce as a topping for the ice cream. garnish with banana chips, if using.

6 servings