When life gives you ripe bananas, make one (or several) of these 18 scrumptious and healthy recipes! Whether you’re a fan of sweet treats or savory breakfasts, we’ve got you covered. From classic banana bread to creative banana-based snacks, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into a world of possibilities where bananas take center stage. We’ll explore the perfect blend of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds sing. So grab those ripe bananas and get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized!
Banana Oatmeal Breakfast Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins are packed with the goodness of ripe bananas, rolled oats, and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for breakfast on-the-go or as a snack to keep you energized throughout the morning.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 large egg
– Salt to taste
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, oats, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, egg, and cinnamon. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Classic Banana Bread
Moist and flavorful, this classic banana bread recipe is a timeless favorite. With ripe bananas and warm spices, it’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
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
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. If using walnuts, fold them into the batter.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Banana Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these moist and delicious banana pancakes, perfectly sweetened with a drizzle of pure maple syrup. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weekend breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
– Pure maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, combine mashed bananas, egg, and milk. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or oil if necessary.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface.
6. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with a drizzle of pure maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes you make)
Banana Smoothie with Spinach and Almond Milk
A delicious and healthy twist on the classic banana smoothie, this recipe adds a boost of nutrients from spinach and almond milk.
Ingredients:
• 2 ripe bananas
• 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
• 1/2 cup almond milk
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Add the bananas, spinach, almond milk, and honey (if using) to a blender.
2. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust the sweetness or consistency as desired.
4. Add ice cubes if you want a thicker, colder smoothie, and blend until well combined.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies
Looking for a deliciously soft and chewy cookie recipe? Look no further! These banana chocolate chip cookies are a perfect combination of ripe bananas, dark chocolate chips, and warm spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 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 large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, brown sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter, mashed bananas, and salt. Mix until just combined.
4. Stir in chocolate chips (and nuts if using).
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Banana Walnut Muffins
Start your day with a delicious and satisfying treat – these banana walnut muffins are packed with nutritious bananas, crunchy walnuts, and warm spices. Perfect for breakfast on-the-go or as an afternoon 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
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Banana French Toast
Start your day with a sweet twist on the classic breakfast favorite – Banana French Toast! This recipe combines ripe bananas, crispy bread, and creamy vanilla to create a delightful morning treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Butter or non-stick cooking spray for greasing
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Place coated bread slices on the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. While the French toast is cooking, spread mashed bananas onto each slice.
6. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Banana Ice Cream (Nice Cream)
Transform ripe bananas into a delicious and healthier ice cream alternative using just three simple ingredients! This recipe yields a creamy, dreamy treat that’s perfect for hot summer days or as a guilt-free dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk or other non-dairy milk
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and place them in a freezer-safe blender or food processor.
2. Add the almond milk and honey/maple syrup (if using) to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth, creamy, and slightly thickened. You may need to stop the blender and scrape down the sides a few times.
4. Pour the nice cream into a bowl or airtight container and cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
5. Freeze for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and freeze.
Enjoy your creamy banana nice cream as is, or get creative with toppings like chopped nuts, cocoa powder, or fresh fruit slices.
Banana Peanut Butter Energy Bites
These no-bake energy balls are a delicious way to get your daily dose of potassium and protein. Made with ripe bananas, creamy peanut butter, and wholesome oats, they’re perfect for a quick snack or post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth.
2. Add the peanut butter and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the oats, honey, and salt until a dough forms.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small energy balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake bites are ready in under 10 minutes.
Banana Yogurt Parfait
A refreshing and healthy treat that’s perfect for a quick snack or dessert. Layering ripe bananas with creamy yogurt and crunchy granola creates a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 cup plain yogurt (any type you like)
– 2 tablespoons granola
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the bananas into 1-inch slices.
2. Spoon about half of the yogurt into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Arrange the banana slices on top of the yogurt.
4. Sprinkle the granola over the bananas.
5. If using, drizzle the honey over the granola.
6. Top with the remaining yogurt.
7. Repeat the layers one more time, ending with yogurt on top.
Cooking Time: None! This parfait is ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your delicious Banana Yogurt Parfait!
Banana Chia Pudding
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast or snack by combining the natural sweetness of bananas with the health benefits of chia seeds. This simple recipe yields a creamy and refreshing treat that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and mash them in a bowl until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the chia seeds, almond milk, and honey (if using). Stir well to combine.
3. Add the mashed banana to the chia seed mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the pudding to thicken.
5. Give the pudding a good stir before serving, garnished with sliced bananas or chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Banana Nutella Crepes
These French-inspired crepes are filled with sweet and nutty goodness, perfect for a special breakfast or brunch treat. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create these delicious crepes at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 2 tablespoons Nutella
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, and milk until smooth.
2. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in 1/4 cup of batter and tilt to spread evenly.
3. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until edges start to curl. Loosen with a spatula and flip.
4. Place a few slices of banana on one half of the crepe, then drizzle with Nutella.
5. Fold the other half over the filling to form a triangle.
6. Repeat with remaining batter and fillings.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Banana Coconut Flour Pancakes
Start your day with a delicious breakfast treat that combines the natural sweetness of bananas, the creaminess of coconut, and the nutty flavor of flour. These pancakes are gluten-free and perfect for a healthy morning indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup coconut flour
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– Coconut oil or butter for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine bananas, coconut flour, unsweetened shredded coconut, baking powder, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. Crack in the egg and blend until well combined.
3. Add honey or maple syrup if using. Blend to incorporate.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Grease with coconut oil or butter.
5. Using 1/4 cup measuring cups, scoop batter onto the pan.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 pancakes (depending on size)
Banana Protein Shake
This refreshing shake is perfect for post-workout or as a healthy breakfast on-the-go. With the natural sweetness of banana, protein-rich whey and casein, and creamy almond milk, you’ll be fueled and satisfied.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 scoop whey protein powder (30g)
– 1/2 scoop casein protein powder (15g)
– 1 cup almond milk
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Combine the banana, whey protein powder, and casein protein powder in a blender.
2. Add the almond milk and chia seeds to the blender.
3. Blend on high speed for 30-45 seconds or until smooth and creamy.
4. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
5. Blend again until the ice is fully incorporated.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (blender)
Banana Overnight Oats
Start your day with a deliciously healthy twist on traditional oats! Banana Overnight Oats are a game-changer: creamy, sweet, and packed with nutritious goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for topping
Instructions:
1. In a jar or container, combine oats, almond milk, and honey. Stir until well combined.
2. Add sliced banana on top of the oat mixture.
3. Cover the jar with a lid and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours).
4. In the morning, give the oats a quick stir and add any desired toppings (such as chopped nuts or additional fruit).
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is perfect for a make-ahead breakfast that’s ready when you are.
Banana Caramel Flan
This creamy flan gets a boost of flavor and moisture from ripe bananas, while the caramel sauce adds a rich, buttery depth. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe bananas
– 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a blender, puree bananas until smooth.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar and eggs until pale and fluffy.
4. Add heavy cream, vanilla extract, and banana puree; whisk until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into 6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
8. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of each flan.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Banana Cinnamon Rolls
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying treat by baking these scrumptious Banana Cinnamon Rolls.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana, mashed
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon powder
– 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 flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
3. Add mashed banana, melted butter, beaten egg, and cinnamon powder. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
6. Spread with confectioners’ sugar. Roll up tightly, then cut into 12 equal pieces.
7. Place rolls on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch space between each.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Banana Sushi Rolls with Nut Butter and Granola
A creative twist on traditional sushi rolls, these bite-sized treats combine the natural sweetness of bananas with the nutty flavor of peanut butter and crunchy texture of granola.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup rolled oats granola
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed (dried seaweed sheets)
– Optional: honey or maple syrup for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Cut the bananas into 1-inch pieces.
2. Spread a small amount of peanut butter onto each banana piece, leaving a 1/4 inch border at one end.
3. Sprinkle a pinch of granola over the peanut butter.
4. Place a nori sheet flat on a surface. Arrange 2-3 banana pieces horizontally along the center of the seaweed, leaving a small border at each end.
5. Roll the nori sheet tightly but gently to form a compact roll.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None needed!
Summary
Are you tired of throwing away ripe bananas? Think again! We’ve got 18 delicious and healthy recipes to use up your overripe bananas. From classic banana bread and pancakes to creative treats like banana chia pudding and banana ice cream (nice cream), we’ve got a recipe for every occasion.
Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a sweet treat after dinner, our collection of banana recipes is sure to please. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and enjoy your bananas like never before!
I’m Brandon, the face behind the recipes. As a dedicated food enthusiast, I love experimenting with flavors and sharing my culinary adventures with you.
