Canada is famous for many things, but few ingredients are as iconic as pure Canadian maple syrup. Produced primarily in Québec, maple syrup has been a cherished part of Canadian kitchens for generations, inspiring everything from pancakes and baked beans to candies and decadent desserts.
One traditional favourite is the carré à l’érable, or maple square—a rich, creamy dessert that showcases the unmistakable flavour of real maple syrup. We wanted to honour that classic while giving it a fresh, modern twist.
The result is our Banana Bottom Maple Cream Square. Imagine the creamy comfort of banana cream pie paired with the deep, caramel-like sweetness of Canadian maple syrup. A layer of ripe bananas forms the base, topped with a buttery oat and graham crumb crust, followed by a silky maple cream filling and finished with maple whipped cream and toasted pecans. It’s a dessert that’s familiar, comforting, and uniquely Canadian.
Why You’ll Love This Dessert
This recipe combines simple ingredients with rich flavours and beautiful textures. The bananas add natural sweetness and creaminess, while the oat and graham crust provides a satisfying crunch. The maple cream filling is the true star, delivering a luxurious taste that celebrates one of Canada’s greatest culinary treasures.
Whether you’re serving it after a family dinner, bringing it to a holiday gathering, or simply looking for a new way to enjoy Canadian maple syrup, this dessert is guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
Bottom Layer
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced into ½ cm rounds
- 1½ cups rolled oats
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
Maple Cream Filling
- 1 cup pure Canadian maple syrup
- 1 cup whipping cream
- 3 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Maple Whipped Topping
- 1 cup whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- ½ cup toasted pecans, chopped
- A pinch of flaky sea salt
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Banana Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the banana slices in a single layer across the bottom of an 8 × 8-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Crumb Crust
In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Spread the crumb mixture evenly over the banana layer and gently press it into place.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow the crust to cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Maple Cream Filling
In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the maple syrup and whipping cream until hot but not boiling.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and cornstarch until smooth.
Slowly whisk a small amount of the hot maple mixture into the egg mixture to temper the eggs. Continue adding the hot liquid gradually while whisking.
Return everything to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens into a smooth, silky custard.
Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Assemble
Pour the warm maple cream over the cooled crust and smooth the surface.
Refrigerate for 3–4 hours, or until fully set.
Step 5: Finish the Dessert
Whip the cream until soft peaks form, then gently fold in the maple syrup.
Spread the maple whipped cream evenly over the chilled dessert.
Finish with toasted chopped pecans and a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
Serving Suggestions
For an extra-special presentation, cut the dessert into squares and serve each piece with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream. Finish with a light dusting of cinnamon for warmth and colour, and garnish with a few additional toasted pecans.
This dessert pairs beautifully with freshly brewed coffee, tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
MapleWow Tips
- Always use 100% pure Canadian maple syrup for the richest flavour.
- Choose bananas that are ripe with a few brown spots for maximum sweetness.
- Toast the pecans for 5–7 minutes before chopping to bring out their natural flavour.
- For an even richer dessert, add a very thin layer of dark chocolate between the cooled crust and the maple cream filling.
A Sweet Canadian Tradition with a Modern Twist
Canadian maple syrup has been bringing families together for generations, and recipes continue to evolve with new ideas and flavours. This Banana Bottom Maple Cream Square honours the traditional Québec maple square while introducing the creamy sweetness of banana for a dessert that’s both comforting and unexpected.
Whether you’re making it for a celebration, sharing it with friends, or enjoying a quiet evening at home, it’s a delicious reminder that some of Canada’s best traditions are meant to be reinvented.
Enjoy!
