Are you tired of throwing away those overripe bananas that seem to appear on your kitchen counter every week? Think again! With a few simple twists, these brown beauties can be transformed into a variety of delicious treats. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility and sweetness of overripe bananas.
From classic banana bread and muffins to decadent cakes and indulgent desserts, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast on-the-go or a satisfying snack to curb your cravings, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So go ahead, get creative, and give those bananas new life!
Classic Banana Bread
Classic Banana Bread Recipe
Moist, flavorful, and utterly delicious, this classic banana bread recipe is a timeless favorite that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich aroma and sweet taste, it’s sure to become a staple in your household.
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
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
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, mix mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir 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: 1 hour
Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins
Start your day with a deliciously moist and flavorful treat! These banana chocolate chip muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch 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
– 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 dry ingredients to 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 Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day with a stack of fluffy banana pancakes drizzled with pure maple syrup – the perfect blend of sweet and savory!
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Maple syrup (optional)
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. 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. Grease with butter if necessary.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (per batch)
Banana Oatmeal Cookies
A classic treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the wholesome goodness of oats and spices, these cookies are perfect for a cozy snack or breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp baking powder
– Pinch of salt
– 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 large bowl, combine mashed bananas, oats, flour, brown sugar, and baking powder. Mix until well combined.
3. Add softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Banana Nutella Swirl Cake
A moist and decadent cake that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the rich flavors of Nutella, swirled together for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup Nutella
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour in Nutella and mix until a swirly pattern forms.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool in pans before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers
A creamy and comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This banana pudding recipe combines ripe bananas, sweet vanilla pudding, and crunchy vanilla wafers for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 package (3.5 oz) vanilla pudding mix
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 1 package (12-16 wafers) Nilla Vanilla Wafers
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine pudding mix, milk, sugar, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add sliced bananas to the pudding mixture and stir gently.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, top with whipped heavy cream and crushed Vanilla Wafers.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Banana Smoothie with Peanut Butter
Start your day off right with a deliciously creamy banana smoothie infused with the rich flavor of peanut butter. This simple and satisfying recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt (low-fat or non-fat)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy, such as almond milk)
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine bananas, peanut butter, yogurt, and honey. Blend until smooth.
2. Add milk and blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
4. Add ice cubes if you want a thicker, colder smoothie. Blend until ice is crushed.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Banana French Toast Casserole
This sweet breakfast casserole combines the classic flavors of banana bread with the creamy richness of French toast. Perfect for a weekend brunch or special occasion, it’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of bread ( Challah or Brioche work well)
– 3 ripe bananas, sliced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract.
3. Add sliced bananas to the egg mixture; let them sit for 5 minutes to absorb the liquid.
4. Cut bread into 1-inch cubes and place half in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Arrange banana slices over the bread.
6. Top with remaining bread cubes, then pour melted butter over the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Banana Cream Pie with Graham Cracker Crust
A classic dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth, this Banana Cream Pie features a rich and creamy filling nestled in a crunchy graham cracker crust.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
– 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crust ingredients until well combined. Press into a 9-inch pie dish.
3. Bake crust for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together filling ingredients until smooth. Arrange sliced bananas in the baked crust.
5. Pour filling over bananas and smooth top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (crust only)
Banana Coconut Energy Balls
Boost your energy levels with these no-bake Banana Coconut Energy Balls! Made with wholesome ingredients, these bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick snack or post-workout pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth.
2. Add the oats, coconut, honey, vanilla extract, and salt to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Use your hands or a small cookie scoop to shape the mixture into 6-8 energy balls.
4. Place the energy balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None (no-bake recipe)
Banana Walnut Loaf
Moist and flavorful, this Banana Walnut Loaf is perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the flour mixture to the banana mixture; stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool on wire rack before serving.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Banana Caramel Upside-Down Cake
This classic dessert gets a boost from ripe bananas and a caramelized brown sugar crust, creating a sweet and indulgent treat. Perfect for a special occasion or just a cozy evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tbsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar, for caramelizing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
4. Arrange banana slices on the prepared pan.
5. Pour batter over bananas and smooth top.
6. Caramelize brown sugar by cooking it in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly, until golden brown.
7. Spread caramelized sugar evenly over the cake batter.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Banana Ice Cream with Cinnamon
This creamy treat combines ripe bananas with the warmth of cinnamon, creating a sweet and comforting dessert perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and place them in a freezer-safe blender or food processor.
2. Add the heavy cream, butter, cinnamon, and salt to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (including freezing time)
Banana Chocolate Chip Bars
Moist banana bars loaded with dark chocolate chips and a hint of warm spices, perfect for snacking or as a dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and brown sugar.
3. Add mashed bananas and mix until well combined.
4. Stir in softened butter until smooth.
5. Fold in dark chocolate chips and ground cinnamon (if using).
6. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are golden brown and center is set.
8. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Banana Cinnamon Roll Bake
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this Banana Cinnamon Roll Bake recipe, a delicious twist on classic cinnamon rolls. Moist banana-infused dough meets warm cinnamon and sweet glaze for a treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Add mashed bananas, beaten egg, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish. Smooth top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. While warm, drizzle with glaze (1 cup powdered sugar + 2 tablespoons milk). Dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Banana Peanut Butter Overnight Oats
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast that combines the creaminess of peanut butter and the natural sweetness of bananas. This overnight oats recipe is easy to prepare, healthy, and perfect for busy mornings.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened almond milk
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: honey or maple syrup (to taste)
Instructions:
1. In a jar or container, combine oats, sliced banana, and peanut butter.
2. Add almond milk and stir until the mixture is smooth.
3. Cover the jar and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
4. Just before serving, add a pinch of salt and any desired sweetener (honey or maple syrup).
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4 hours – 12 hours (depending on how long you want to let it sit)
Banana Fritters with Honey Drizzle
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these crispy, golden banana fritters drizzled with a rich honey glaze. Perfect as a snack or dessert, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Honey (about 1 tablespoon per serving)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the egg to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Fold in the mashed bananas until a dough forms.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the dough into the oil (about 1-inch in diameter).
7. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
9. Drizzle with honey while still warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (frying time)
Enjoy your delicious Banana Fritters with Honey Drizzle!
Banana Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This decadent cake combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with warm spices and a tangy cream cheese frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
For the frosting:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, eggs, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting with cream cheese frosting.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Summary
Are you tired of throwing away overripe bananas? Think again! These 18 delicious recipes will transform your brown bananas into mouth-watering treats. From classic banana bread to decadent banana nutella swirl cake, and from sweet banana pancakes to indulgent banana fritters, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick breakfast or a satisfying dessert, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and reduce food waste. So go ahead, get creative, and give new life to those overripe bananas!
