Are you looking for creative ways to use up those ripe bananas that are starting to turn brown on your counter? Look no further! Bananas are a staple fruit in many kitchens, and when they’re perfectly ripe, they can add natural sweetness and creamy texture to a variety of delicious dishes. From sweet treats like banana bread and muffins, to savory breakfast options like pancakes and oatmeal, bananas are incredibly versatile. And the best part? They’re readily available at most grocery stores year-round, making them a convenient ingredient for any meal or snack.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 creative recipes that showcase the humble banana in all its glory. From classic comfort foods to innovative twists on traditional dishes, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative with your ripe bananas.
Classic Banana Bread
Classic Banana Bread Recipe
Moist and flavorful banana bread that’s perfect for snacking or serving as a dessert. This classic recipe is easy to make and always a crowd pleaser!
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
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– Optional: nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, 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. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Banana Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this simple and delicious recipe for banana pancakes with a drizzle of maple syrup. The natural sweetness of bananas pairs perfectly with the richness of maple syrup, making for a delightful breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 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 butter, melted
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, combine mashed bananas, milk, egg, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
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.
6. Flip and cook for another minute.
7. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Banana Walnut Muffins
Moist banana muffins packed with crunchy walnuts and a hint of sweetness, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go. This recipe yields 12-15 muffins that are sure to become a favorite!
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 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
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. Fold in chopped walnuts.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers
A classic Southern dessert that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, this banana pudding combines ripe bananas, creamy custard, and crunchy vanilla wafers for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe bananas
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 package (8-10 wafers) Vanilla Wafers, crushed
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 minutes.
4. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla extract.
5. Cut bananas into 1-inch pieces and layer with pudding and crushed wafers in individual serving cups or a large bowl.
6. Top with whipped cream (optional) and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Banana Smoothie with Honey and Almond Milk
Start your day with a deliciously healthy smoothie that combines the natural sweetness of bananas, the subtle flavor of honey, and the creaminess of almond milk.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 tablespoon pure honey
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the bananas, honey, and almond milk to a blender.
2. Blend the mixture on high speed until 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 prefer a thicker, colder smoothie.
5. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is the desired texture.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and enjoy!
Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Moist banana flavor combines with hearty oatmeal to create a delightful cookie perfect for snacking or sharing. These soft-baked treats are easy to make and packed with wholesome goodness.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and baking soda.
3. Add softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. 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 French Toast
Start your day off right with this sweet and indulgent twist on classic French toast. Sliced bananas add natural sweetness and creamy texture to the crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Cinnamon or nutmeg for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and melted butter.
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 coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, sauté sliced bananas in a separate pan with a little butter until caramelized.
6. Assemble French toast by placing cooked bread slices on a plate and topping with caramelized banana slices.
7. Sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor (optional).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Banana Cream Pie
A classic dessert that’s sure to please, this banana cream pie is a staple of American baking. With its layers of flaky pastry, creamy filling, and sweet bananas, it’s a treat you’ll want to make again and again.
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 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Make the crust: Combine flour and butter in a bowl. Gradually add water, stirring with a fork until dough forms.
3. Roll out dough, place in a pie dish, and trim edges.
4. Bake crust for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly browned.
5. Prepare filling: In a separate bowl, combine bananas, heavy cream, sugar, salt, and cornstarch.
6. Pour filling into baked pie crust and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (for crust) + 2 hours (for filling)
Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the richness of dark chocolate chips, resulting in a soft-baked cookie that’s perfect for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Banana Ice Cream with Peanut Butter Swirl
Transform ripe bananas into a creamy dessert by freezing them, blending them with heavy cream, and adding a rich peanut butter swirl. This no-churn ice cream recipe is perfect for warm weather or anytime you crave a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Remove the bananas from the freezer and blend them into a smooth consistency using an immersion blender or a regular blender.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the banana mixture until well combined.
5. Soften the peanut butter to room temperature. Swirl it through the ice cream mixture in a zigzag pattern.
6. Cover and freeze for at least 2 hours to set.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking involved!)
Banana Nutella Crepes
Say goodbye to ordinary breakfasts with these scrumptious Banana Nutella Crepes. Thin, delicate crepes filled with the perfect balance of sweet banana and rich Nutella.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1/4 cup Nutella
– Powdered sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, and water.
2. Add melted butter and whisk until smooth.
3. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
4. Pour about 1 tablespoon of batter into the pan and tilt to evenly coat.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until edges start to curl.
6. Loosen crepe with a spatula and flip.
7. Spread 1/2 banana slice and 1 teaspoon Nutella on each crepe.
8. Fold crepe in half and enjoy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on crepe size)
Banana Foster
A classic New Orleans dessert, Banana Foster is a sweet and indulgent treat that combines caramelized bananas with brown sugar, butter, and rum. This recipe serves four.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas, sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (optional)
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– Ice cream or whipped cream for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced bananas and cook until caramelized, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the bananas and cook for an additional minute.
4. If using rum, carefully add it to the skillet and ignite (be careful, as the flames will quickly die down).
5. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.
6. Serve the Banana Foster warm over ice cream or whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Banana Caramel Cake
This moist banana cake infused with caramel goodness is the perfect dessert for any occasion. With its rich flavor and velvety texture, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add mashed bananas, caramel sauce, and flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Banana Yogurt Parfait
Kick off your day with a deliciously healthy breakfast or snack that’s as easy to make as it is tasty! This simple recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas, the creaminess of yogurt, and crunchy texture of granola for a treat you’ll love.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the bananas into 1-inch slices.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt and honey (if using).
3. Layer the banana slices, yogurt mixture, and granola in a glass or parfait dish.
4. Repeat the layers one more time, ending with the yogurt on top.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assemble just before serving)
Banana Coconut Bread
This delicious banana coconut bread recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the creamy richness of coconut. Perfect for a snack or dessert, this loaf is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon 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 bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, coconut, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add mashed bananas, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Banana Peanut Butter Smoothie
Start your day with a delicious and satisfying smoothie that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the rich flavor of peanut butter.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tsp honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, peanut butter, yogurt, and milk.
2. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the honey and blend for another second or until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness or consistency as needed.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes (blending time)
Banana Cinnamon Rolls
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying breakfast treat that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the warmth of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 package active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 3 tablespoons warm water
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 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 mixing bowl, combine yeast and warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, salt, sugar, melted butter, mashed bananas, beaten egg, and cinnamon to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., rectangles or circles).
6. Place rolls on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each roll.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Banana Chia Pudding
This recipe is a delicious and healthy dessert option that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the nutritious benefits of chia seeds. With only a few simple ingredients, you can create a creamy and indulgent pudding that’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or as a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/4 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the chia seeds and almond milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid.
2. In a separate bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until they’re smooth.
3. Add the honey and salt to the mashed bananas and mix well.
4. Combine the chia seed mixture with the banana mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight to allow the pudding to set.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with sliced bananas or a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (or overnight)
Banana Blueberry Muffins
Moist banana-infused muffins loaded with fresh blueberries make for a perfect breakfast or snack option. This easy-to-make recipe yields a dozen tender and flavorful treats.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 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, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients; stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
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 Toffee Bars
Elevate your snack game with these gooey, caramel-filled bars that combine the natural sweetness of bananas with a crunchy toffee topping. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup toffee bits (or chopped peanut butter cups)
– Optional: chopped nuts or sea salt for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter; mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
3. Press half of the mixture into prepared baking dish. Arrange sliced bananas on top.
4. Sprinkle remaining crust mixture over bananas. Top with toffee bits (or peanut butter cups).
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and set. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get creative with ripe bananas and try out these delicious recipes! From classic banana bread to decadent banana cream pie, we’ve got you covered. Enjoy sweet treats like banana pancakes with maple syrup, banana walnut muffins, or banana oatmeal cookies. Indulge in creamy desserts like banana pudding with vanilla wafers or banana ice cream with peanut butter swirl. Or try out savory options like banana French toast or banana chia pudding. Whatever your taste buds desire, we’ve got a recipe to make you go bananas!
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