Waffles with Maple-Glazed Bananas

(Adapted from Williams Sonoma Kitchen)

6 Tbs. (3/4 stick) unsalted butter

3/4 cup maple syrup

3/4 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/4 cup dark rum (optional)

1 tsp. vanilla bean paste or extract

4 bananas, peeled and cut diagonally into slices

  1/2 inch thick

4 large waffles

Sweetened whipped cream for serving

Directions:

In a large sauté pan over medium heat, melt the butter with the maple syrup. Stir in the cinnamon, rum and vanilla and simmer for 1 minute.

Add the bananas to the pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bananas to a serving plate. Pour the maple syrup mixture into a sauceboat. Serve immediately with waffles and whipped cream. Serves 4.