One of the major differences between the laws of Shabbat and those of holidays is that it is permitted to cook on holidays even though it is forbidden on Shabbat. Anything that is going to be served on shabbat needs to be able to be made ahead and served no less than several hours later. For many desserts this is no problem, but it can be somewhat limiting. That is why on holidays I like to make things that I wouldn’t be able to make on shabbat, like molten chocolate cakes and souffles.

These banana souffles are simple to put together and look very impressive. I have to confess that I am not a huge fan of dessert souffles, I find them a bit too airy and not quite satisfying. Don’t get me wrong, I wouldn’t turn a souffle away, but it is never what I choose to when presented with other options. However, for those who would disagree with me about souffles (and I know there are many who do) these banana souffles are delicious. With just enough sweetness, they are a light and delicious way to end a meal. They also happen to be completely fat free! The recipe can easily be doubled or tripled to feed a crowd at the seder, just pop the souffles into the oven as people are finishing dinner for a stunning presentation.

The banana base can be made the day before and kept refrigerated, just bring it back to room temperature before adding the egg whites. The souffles can be prepared in advance (no more than about 12 hours). Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. They will not be quite as tall as if the egg whites are added immediately before baking, but the convenience of being able to make them earlier in the day and just pop them in the oven as people are finishing their meal is worth the minor difference.