Are you tired of throwing away overripe bananas, only to be reminded of their potential by the delicious aroma wafting from your kitchen? Well, today’s the day you can turn those mushy spuds into a culinary masterpiece! In this article, we’ll explore 18 delectable recipes that will showcase the sweet and simple magic of ripe bananas. From classic banana bread to indulgent banana ice cream (nice cream), we’ve got a treat for every taste bud.
In the following pages, you’ll discover mouth-watering treats like banana pancakes with maple syrup, banana chocolate chip muffins, and even banana fritters with honey drizzle. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast solution or a decadent dessert, these recipes will satisfy your cravings while reducing food waste in the process.
So go ahead, rip those bananas – it’s time to get baking!
Classic Banana Bread
Classic Banana Bread Recipe
Moist and delicious, this classic banana bread recipe is a staple in many households. With ripe bananas and simple ingredients, it’s an easy treat to whip up for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add mashed bananas, vanilla extract, and dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Banana Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these fluffy banana pancakes drizzled with pure maple syrup. This simple recipe yields a stack of golden brown pancakes packed with sweet, ripe bananas and the perfect amount of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Maple syrup for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the pan.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with pure maple syrup drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins
Moist and flavorful muffins packed with ripe bananas and dark chocolate chips, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Banana Oatmeal Cookies
These soft-baked cookies are a perfect blend of sweet and savory, packed with the natural goodness of bananas and rolled oats. A delicious treat for any time of day!
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, oats, and softened butter. Mix until smooth.
4. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the banana mixture; mix well.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
6. Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Banana Smoothie with Peanut Butter
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this indulgent banana smoothie, featuring the rich flavor of peanut butter. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a healthy snack or post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt (low-fat or non-fat)
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy, such as almond milk)
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine bananas, peanut butter, yogurt, and milk.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add honey if desired for an extra touch of sweetness.
4. Taste and adjust the flavor as needed.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and enjoy.
Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers
This classic Southern dessert is a perfect combination of creamy pudding, sweet bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this beloved treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 12-16 Vanilla Wafers
– Whipped cream and additional banana slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla extract and heavy cream.
5. Arrange Vanilla Wafers in a 9×13-inch dish.
6. Pour pudding mixture over wafers.
7. Top with sliced bananas.
8. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
9. Garnish with whipped cream and additional banana slices, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight)
Banana French Toast
Start your day with a delicious twist on classic French toast, infused with the sweetness of ripe bananas.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup or honey, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and cinnamon until well combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, place sliced bananas on top of the French toast during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve warm with melted butter, maple syrup, or honey, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Banana Ice Cream (Nice Cream)
This recipe transforms ripe bananas into a creamy and delicious dessert, perfect for hot summer days or as a healthy snack. With just three ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying this tasty treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (or non-dairy alternative)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and place them in a freezer-safe blender or food processor.
2. Add the heavy cream and salt to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth, creamy, and slightly chunky (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Stop the blender and scrape down the sides with a spatula as needed.
5. Return the blender to high speed and blend for an additional 30 seconds to ensure everything is fully incorporated.
6. Pour the nice cream into a bowl or cone and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe requires no cooking, just blending and freezing (just like traditional ice cream).
Enjoy your delicious Banana Nice Cream!
Banana Nutella Crepes
Sweet and indulgent crepes filled with ripe bananas and rich Nutella, perfect for a decadent breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1/4 cup Nutella
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, and milk.
2. Add melted butter and whisk until smooth.
3. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
4. Pour approximately 1/4 cup of batter into the pan and tilt to evenly coat the surface.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until edges start to curl and surface is dry.
6. Flip crepe and cook for an additional minute.
7. Spread 1 tablespoon of Nutella on each crepe, followed by a slice of banana.
8. Fold crepes in half and serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes (depending on the number of crepes you make)
Banana Coconut Energy Balls
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick pick-me-up or post-workout snack. Made with ripe bananas, coconut flakes, and rolled oats, they’re not only delicious but also packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth.
2. Add the coconut flakes, oats, and honey to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 energy balls.
4. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Banana Caramel Upside-Down Cake
This scrumptious cake is a perfect combination of ripe bananas, gooey caramel, and crunchy brown sugar topping. It’s an ideal dessert for any occasion or just a sweet treat to brighten up your day.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
– 2 tablespoons caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, eggs, baking powder, and salt.
3. Arrange banana slices in the prepared baking dish.
4. Pour batter over bananas, smooth the top, and drizzle with caramel sauce.
5. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Banana Walnut Loaf
Moist banana bread packed with crunchy walnuts and a hint of spice is the perfect treat to brighten up any day.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– Optional: brown sugar and chopped nuts for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, eggs, and softened butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Fold in chopped walnuts.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool on wire rack before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Banana Cinnamon Rolls
Start your day with a delicious twist on traditional cinnamon rolls by incorporating ripe bananas into the dough. These sweet treats are perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, sugar, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add mashed bananas, melted butter, and beaten egg. Mix until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Sprinkle with cinnamon and roll up tightly.
5. Cut into 12 equal pieces. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each roll.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Banana Chocolate Chip Bread
This delicious banana chocolate chip bread recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. The combination of ripe bananas, dark chocolate chips, and warm spices will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Banana Yogurt Parfait
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying treat that’s packed with protein and flavor. This easy-to-make parfait is the perfect combination of creamy yogurt, ripe bananas, and crunchy granola.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 cup plain yogurt (any type you prefer)
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the bananas into slices.
2. Layer the banana slices in a glass or parfait dish.
3. Spoon the yogurt over the bananas, leaving a small border at the top.
4. Sprinkle the granola over the yogurt.
5. If desired, drizzle with honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in minutes.
Banana Fritters with Honey Drizzle
These bite-sized banana fritters are a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the warmth of honey. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert, these crispy and fluffy treats will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Honey, for drizzling
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add granulated sugar, milk, and mashed bananas to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the batter into the oil, frying for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Remove fritters from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Drizzle warm honey over the fritters.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes (depending on the size of the fritters)
Banana Peanut Butter Overnight Oats
Start your day with a creamy and delicious breakfast that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of peanut butter. This overnight oats recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for busy mornings.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 mashed ripe banana
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: sliced banana and chopped peanuts for topping
Instructions:
1. In a jar or container, combine oats, almond milk, Greek yogurt, and mashed banana. Stir until well combined.
2. Add peanut butter and stir until smooth.
3. Cover the jar and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 4 hours).
4. In the morning, give the oats a quick stir and add salt to taste.
5. Top with sliced banana and chopped peanuts if desired.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! Let the oats sit in the fridge overnight or for at least 4 hours.
Banana Coconut Bread Pudding
Moist banana bread, toasted coconut flakes, and a hint of tropical flavor come together in this delightful dessert perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make bread pudding is sure to be a hit with your family and friends!
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale banana bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 ripe banana, mashed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the cubed banana bread and stir until well coated.
4. Fold in the toasted coconut flakes and mashed banana.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to go bananas with these 18 delicious recipes that showcase the sweet and simple versatility of ripe bananas! From classic banana bread to decadent banana nutella crepes, and from healthy banana smoothies to indulgent banana caramel upside-down cake, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned pro, these easy-to-follow recipes will inspire you to get creative with this versatile fruit.