Print

Old-Fashioned Banana Marlow (1930s Ice Cream Classic)

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A nostalgic, no-churn frozen dessert from the 1930s made with marshmallows, ripe bananas, whipped cream, and maraschino cherries—creamy, fruity, and bursting with vintage charm.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 32 regular marshmallows or 4 cups mini marshmallows
  • ¾ cup whole milk
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 cup mashed bananas (ripe)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1½ cups heavy cream (cold)
  • ½ cup maraschino cherries, chopped

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan over low heat, combine the marshmallows and milk. Stir occasionally until smooth and fully melted.
  2. Remove from heat. Stir in the lemon juice, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and let cool completely.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream to stiff peaks. Do not overwhip.
  4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cooled banana-marshmallow mixture in 3 batches, maintaining a light, airy texture.
  5. Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries.
  6. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch shallow casserole dish, cover, and freeze.
  7. Optional: Every 40 minutes for the first 2–3 hours, gently stir the mixture to incorporate frozen edges and ensure a creamy texture.
  8. Before serving, let the Banana Marlow sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to soften for easy scooping.

Notes

  • Use fully ripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness.
  • A dash of rum extract or chopped toasted walnuts adds a delicious twist.
  • Serve in vintage dessert cups topped with an extra cherry for authentic 1930s presentation.
  • Stirring during the initial freeze helps avoid icy texture and keeps the dessert smooth.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/old-fashioned-banana-marlow-1930s-ice-cream-classic/