18 Delicious Banana Recipes for Every Occasion

18 Delicious Banana Recipes for Every Occasion
When it comes to bananas, there’s no denying their appeal. Whether you’re a fan of their sweet and creamy flavor or their convenient portability, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy these yellow wonders. But did you know that bananas are also an incredibly versatile ingredient? From baked goods to breakfast treats, from desserts to savory dishes, the humble banana can be used in countless creative recipes. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious banana recipes that are perfect for every occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick and easy snack or a show-stopping dessert.

Read on to discover some of our favorite banana-based creations…

Classic Banana Bread

Moist and flavorful, this classic banana bread recipe is a timeless favorite that’s perfect for any occasion.

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
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– Optional: walnuts or pecans for added texture

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, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and 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 moist and delicious banana pancakes, topped with a drizzle of pure Canadian maple syrup. This classic breakfast treat is easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

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
– 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, egg, milk, 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.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.

Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes

Chocolate Banana Muffins

These scrumptious muffins combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the richness of dark chocolate, creating a perfect treat for breakfast or snack time.

Ingredients:

– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)

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, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

Banana Foster French Toast

Elevate your breakfast game with this decadent Banana Foster French toast recipe, featuring caramelized bananas, brown sugar, and a hint of rum. This indulgent treat is perfect for special occasions or lazy Sunday mornings.

Ingredients:

– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon dark rum (optional)
– Cinnamon and nutmeg for sprinkling

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add sliced bananas and cook until caramelized, about 2-3 minutes per side.
2. Meanwhile, in a shallow dish, whisk together eggs and heavy cream. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Place the coated bread slices in the skillet with the caramelized bananas. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
4. Sprinkle brown sugar over the French toast and cook for an additional minute.
5. Serve warm, topped with remaining banana slices, a drizzle of rum (if using), and a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Banana Nutella Crepes

Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with this indulgent recipe that combines the creaminess of Nutella with the natural sweetness of bananas, wrapped in a delicate crepe.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup 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 mixing bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, and salt until smooth.
2. Add the melted butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
3. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in about 1/4 cup of batter and tilt to evenly coat the bottom.
4. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then flip and cook for another minute.
5. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of Nutella on each crepe, leaving a small border around edges.
6. Top with sliced bananas and fold the crepe in half to enclose.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on crepe size)

Banana Split Sundae

Combine the classic flavors of a banana split with the convenience of a sundae, and you’ll have a treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 1 cup vanilla ice cream
– 1/2 cup chocolate ice cream
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce
– 1 tablespoon whipped cream
– 1 cherry, pitted
– 1 sprinkle of sea salt (optional)

Instructions:

1. Scoop the vanilla and chocolate ice creams into separate bowls.
2. Place a slice of banana on top of each scoop.
3. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the banana slices.
4. Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the caramel sauce.
5. Top with whipped cream and place a cherry in the center.
6. If desired, add a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: None! This sundae is ready to eat as soon as you assemble it.

Grilled Banana S’mores

Elevate your s’mores game with this unique recipe that adds caramelized bananas to the mix. The result is a sweet and gooey treat that’s perfect for camping trips, backyard gatherings, or simply a fun dessert.

Ingredients:

– 4 ripe bananas
– 1 package of marshmallows
– 1 bag of graham crackers
– 1 bar of milk chocolate
– Cooking oil or non-stick spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the bananas into 1-inch thick pieces and brush with cooking oil or non-stick spray.
3. Grill the bananas for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, toast the marshmallows over the grill or in a toaster oven until golden brown.
5. Assemble the s’mores by placing a grilled banana slice on top of a graham cracker, followed by a toasted marshmallow and a piece of milk chocolate.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Banana Pudding Parfait

Elevate your dessert game with this simple yet impressive banana pudding parfait! Layers of creamy pudding, crunchy cookies, and ripe bananas create a sweet and satisfying treat.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup vanilla pudding mix
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup Nilla wafers, crushed
– Whipped cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, and salt until stiff peaks form.
2. Add the vanilla pudding mix and whisk until smooth.
3. Cut one banana into slices.
4. Layer the pudding, banana slices, and crushed cookies in a parfait glass or tall clear cup.
5. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Top with whipped cream, if desired.

Cooking Time: None! This dessert is served chilled and ready to enjoy.

Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Sweet Treat Alert: Banana Oatmeal Cookies!

These soft-baked cookies combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the wholesome goodness of rolled oats, making them a perfect snack or dessert for any time of day.

Ingredients:

– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mashed bananas, oats, sugar, and egg until well combined.
3. Add softened butter and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. If using walnuts, fold them into the mixture.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.

Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes

Banana Smoothie Bowl

A refreshing and nutritious breakfast or snack option, this Banana Smoothie Bowl is a perfect way to start your day with a boost of energy and flavor. This recipe combines ripe bananas with creamy yogurt and sweet honey for a deliciously smooth base, topped with crunchy granola and fresh fruit.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Fresh sliced strawberries or kiwi for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine bananas, yogurt, and honey. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into a bowl.
3. Top with rolled oats and chopped walnuts (if using).
4. Garnish with fresh sliced strawberries or kiwi.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Banana Coconut Curry

This unique curry combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the rich flavor of coconut milk, creating a deliciously unique and aromatic dish. Perfect for adventurous eaters looking to try something new!

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add curry powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add coconut milk and bananas; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
8. Serve warm over rice, naan, or with your favorite accompaniments.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Banana Cream Pie

Satisfy your sweet tooth with this classic banana cream pie recipe, featuring a flaky crust, creamy filling, and caramelized bananas.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 3 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Prepare the crust: Combine flour, butter, and water in a bowl. Mix until a dough forms. Roll out to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange the bananas: Place sliced bananas on the bottom of the pie crust.
4. Prepare the filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract.
5. Assemble the pie: Pour the cream mixture over the bananas, then roll out the remaining crust to fit the top of the pie.
6. Bake: Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Banana Chia Pudding

A delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack option, this Banana Chia Pudding recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the health benefits of chia seeds. With only a few simple ingredients and no cooking required, you can enjoy a tasty and healthy treat in just a few minutes.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/4 cup chia seeds
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and almond milk. Stir well to combine.
2. Add sliced bananas to the bowl and stir gently to distribute evenly.
3. If desired, add honey or maple syrup and stir to combine.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Cooking Time: None

Banana Walnut Waffles

Start your day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast treat that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas and the crunch of toasted walnuts. These banana walnut waffles are perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick weekday breakfast on-the-go.

Ingredients:

– 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 4 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Vegetable oil for greasing the waffle iron

Instructions:

1. Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Grease the waffle iron with vegetable oil and cook for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Repeat with remaining batter.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on waffle iron)

Banana Ice Cream

No churn needed! This recipe transforms ripe bananas into a creamy and delicious ice cream without any ice or cream. Perfect for warm weather or as a healthy dessert option.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Peel the bananas and place them in a freezer-safe blender or food processor.
2. Add the vanilla extract and salt to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until it’s smooth, creamy, and pale yellow (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Pour the mixture into a container with an airtight lid.
5. Place the container in the freezer and let it freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Cooking Time: None! Let the banana ice cream chill in the freezer until it’s ready to scoop and enjoy.

Banana Caramel Tart

Sweet and indulgent, this Banana Caramel Tart is a perfect dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 3 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. Arrange the sliced bananas on the pie crust, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the bananas, followed by the heavy cream, butter, and vanilla extract.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
6. Allow the tart to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Banana Cinnamon Rolls

Transform your breakfast or brunch game with these scrumptious Banana Cinnamon Rolls! Moist banana-infused dough is swirled with a sweet cinnamon mixture, creating a delightful treat that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Fold in mashed bananas and cinnamon mixture.
4. Knead dough for 10 minutes.
5. Roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into 12 equal pieces.
6. Roll each piece into a log shape, curling towards the center.
7. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each roll.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve warm and enjoy!

Banana Stuffed French Toast

Start your day with a sweet treat that combines the warmth of French toast with the natural sweetness of bananas. This Banana Stuffed French Toast recipe is easy to make and perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients:

– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Cinnamon sugar, for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs and milk 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 on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, place a few slices of banana in the center of each toasted bread slice.
6. Fold the bread over the banana to form a square or triangle shape.
7. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar (if using) and serve warm.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Summary

Get ready to go bananas with these 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of this delicious fruit! From classic banana bread and pancakes, to decadent chocolate muffins and creamy puddings, there’s something for every occasion. Try your hand at grilling bananas for s’mores or stuffing them into French toast. Or indulge in a sweet treat like banana split sundae or caramel tart. Whatever your taste buds desire, this collection of recipes is sure to satisfy!