Are you tired of throwing away those overripe bananas? Think again! Ripe bananas are actually a treasure trove of creative possibilities. Not only do they make perfect smoothies, but they can also add natural sweetness and creamy texture to a variety of sweet treats. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of ripe bananas.
From classic banana breads and muffins to innovative desserts like banana pudding and banana ice cream, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option or a show-stopping dessert, these easy and quick recipes will inspire you to get creative with your ripe bananas. So go ahead, grab those overripe bananas, and let the baking (and snacking) begin!
Banana Bread with Walnuts
This classic banana bread recipe gets a boost of flavor and texture from the addition of chopped walnuts. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or as a dessert, this moist and delicious loaf is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 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 medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a plate.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Banana Pancakes with Maple Syrup
These moist and delicious banana pancakes are infused with the sweetness of ripe bananas and the warmth of maple syrup. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick breakfast on-the-go.
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 dry ingredients to the wet 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.
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 maple syrup drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Banana Muffins with Chocolate Chips
These soft and fluffy muffins are packed with ripe bananas and sweet chocolate chips, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time!
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
– 2 large eggs
– 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, eggs, 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 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Banana Smoothie with Yogurt
Start your day with a delicious and healthy banana smoothie made with yogurt! This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack that’s packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt (low-fat or non-fat)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add ice cubes if you want a thicker consistency.
4. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is the desired thickness.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Brighten up your day with these moist and flavorful Banana Oatmeal Cookies, packed with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas.
Ingredients:
• 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, butter, egg, and vanilla extract (if using). Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture; mix until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool on wire rack for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Banana French Toast
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying breakfast treat by making Banana French Toast. This recipe combines the warmth of French toast with the natural sweetness of bananas, creating a delightful breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup or honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and cinnamon.
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. While the French toast is cooking, top each slice with a few banana slices.
6. Serve warm with maple syrup or honey, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers
This creamy banana pudding is a timeless dessert favorite, elevated by the addition of crunchy vanilla wafers. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a comforting treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12-16 vanilla wafers, crushed
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until pudding thickens slightly.
4. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Arrange sliced bananas in individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Pour warm pudding over bananas.
7. Top with crushed vanilla wafers.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Banana Ice Cream with Peanut Butter
Banana Ice Cream with Peanut Butter Recipe
This creamy dessert combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of peanut butter, perfect for a warm-weather treat.
Ingredients:
• 3 ripe bananas
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
• Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Peel and freeze the bananas for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the frozen bananas, heavy cream, sugar, peanut butter, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Once the ice cream is almost set, transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours to firm up.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (including freezing time)
Banana Fritters with Cinnamon Sugar
Sweet and crispy banana fritters coated in a warm cinnamon sugar mixture – a perfect treat for any time of day!
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Cinnamon sugar mixture (see below)
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add mashed bananas, sugar, and egg to the bowl. Mix until combined.
3. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the banana mixture into the oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
5. Fry fritters for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. While still warm, toss fritters in cinnamon sugar mixture to coat.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the size of your fritters)
Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Moist and delicious banana cake paired with a tangy cream cheese frosting – a match made in heaven!
Banana Cake:
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Add softened butter and mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until combined.
Banana Granola Bars
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these moist and crunchy banana granola bars, perfect for a quick snack or on-the-go breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, oats, brown sugar, honey, and chopped walnuts. Mix until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Banana Waffles with Honey
Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast treat that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the warmth of waffles and the richness of honey.
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 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Honey, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, egg, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Pour the banana mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Pour approximately 1/4 cup of batter onto the center of the waffle iron and cook for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with a drizzle of honey.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on your waffle iron’s cooking time.
Banana Scones with Dried Cranberries
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with these moist and flavorful scones, packed with the sweetness of ripe bananas and the tartness of dried cranberries.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
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, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until coarse crumbs form.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together mashed bananas, heavy cream, egg, and honey.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Fold in dried cranberries.
7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch of space between each scone.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Yield: 12-15 scones
Banana Yogurt Parfait
A classic dessert that’s easy to make and deliciously healthy! This Banana Yogurt Parfait recipe combines fresh bananas, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola for a satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 cup plain yogurt (low-fat or non-fat)
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the bananas into 1-inch slices.
2. Layer the banana slices, yogurt, and granola in a parfait glass or tall clear cup.
3. Drizzle with honey, if desired.
4. Repeat the layers one more time, ending with yogurt on top.
5. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your Banana Yogurt Parfait!
Banana Chia Pudding
This creamy and nutritious pudding is a great way to start your day or as a healthy snack. With the natural sweetness of bananas, the earthy flavor of chia seeds, and the creaminess of Greek yogurt, this recipe is a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and almond milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid.
2. Peel the bananas and mash them in a separate bowl.
3. Add the Greek yogurt, honey (if using), and salt to the mashed banana. Mix well.
4. Combine the chia seed mixture with the banana mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None
Serving Suggestions: Top with fresh fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of honey for added flavor and texture.
Banana Crepes with Nutella
Banana Crepes with Nutella Recipe
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these delicate crepes filled with caramelized bananas and a drizzle of rich Nutella.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 3 ripe bananas, sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Nutella
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, and milk.
2. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in about 1/4 cup of the batter and tilt to evenly coat the surface.
3. Cook for 2 minutes or until edges start to curl. Loosen with a spatula and flip.
4. Cook the other side for an additional minute.
5. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced bananas and cook for about 2-3 minutes or until caramelized.
6. Assemble crepes by spreading a spoonful of Nutella on each, followed by a few slices of banana.
7. Fold the crepe in half to enclose the filling.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Banana Energy Bites
Looking for a healthy snack that’s packed with natural energy? These Banana Energy Bites are the perfect solution! Made with ripe bananas, rolled oats, and a hint of honey, these bite-sized treats are easy to make and provide a boost of sustained energy.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine bananas, oats, honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 energy bites.
3. Place the energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! These energy bites are no-bake, so you can enjoy them right away.
Banana Bread Pudding
Banana Bread Pudding Recipe
Transform your banana bread into a decadent pudding that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale banana bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and melted butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches a simmer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Add the banana bread cubes to the pudding mixture and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and a pinch of salt.
6. Gradually pour the warm pudding mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
7. Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until set.
Serve warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy!
Banana Cobbler with Whipped Cream
This comforting dessert is a staple of American cuisine, and our recipe makes it easy to bring it to your table. Sweet ripe bananas are topped with a crispy, buttery crust and served with a dollop of whipped cream for the perfect treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– Vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine sliced bananas and granulated sugar. Let it sit for 15 minutes, allowing the bananas to release their juices.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add melted butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
4. Pour banana mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with crumbly mixture.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Add vanilla extract, if desired.
7. Serve warm cobbler with whipped cream on top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Banana Jam with Toast
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this sweet and simple banana jam recipe, paired perfectly with toasted goodness.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 loaf of bread (white or whole wheat), sliced and toasted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the mashed bananas, sugar, honey, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and turns golden brown (about 15-20 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Spread the warm banana jam on toasted bread slices. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of ripe bananas with these 20 delicious and easy recipes! From sweet treats like Banana Bread with Walnuts, Banana Muffins with Chocolate Chips, and Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, to savory options like Banana Oatmeal Cookies and Banana Scones with Dried Cranberries. You’ll also find quick and healthy choices like Banana Smoothie with Yogurt and Banana Granola Bars. Plus, indulge in indulgent treats like Banana Ice Cream with Peanut Butter and Banana Fritters with Cinnamon Sugar. Whatever your craving, there’s a recipe for you!
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