Grilled Banana Splits

Grilled Banana Splits - from Great Grilling by Safeway

Serves 4

Prep time: About 5 minutes
Grill time: About 10 minutes

Ingredients:
4 large firm-ripe bananas, unpeeled, skins washed with detergent before using
1 bar (4 oz) milk chocolate, broken into small pieces
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 pint ice cream
1 cup whipped cream, lightly sweetened
1/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts (optional)
4 maraschino cherries (optional)
alternate idea - skip the cinnamon, add mini marshmallows

Preparation:
1. Prepare a charcoal or gas grill for direct, medium-high heat the charcoal or gas flame is directly under the cooking area and you can comfortably hold your hand just above grill only 3 to 4 seconds). While grill heats, cut into each unpeeled banana lengthwise, making a deep slit but taking care to avoid cutting all the way through. Slip pieces of chocolate into each pocket and sprinkle with some of the cinnamon. Wrap each banana in foil sprayed with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Lay bananas on grill (close lid if using gas) and cook, turning once, until slightly soft when squeezed with tongs, about (5 to) 10 minutes.

3. Carefully unwrap each banana and place on plate with the cut side facing up. Top each with small scoops of ice cream; add a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkling of chopped walnuts, and a cherry, if desired.

Note: The banana skins turn black when grilled.