20 Delicious Recipes with Ripe Bananas You Must Try

recipesforlife

March 31, 2025

Are you tired of the same old banana routine? Mashing them into a smoothie or slipping them into your lunchbox? It’s time to get creative and bring out the ripeness in those yellow wonders! With over 20 mouthwatering recipes featuring ripe bananas as the star ingredient, we’re about to take your snack game (and maybe even your baking skills) to the next level.

From sweet treats like banana bread and muffins to decadent desserts like banana cream pie and banana foster, our list has something for everyone. And don’t worry – we’ve got savory options too! Think banana oatmeal cookies or banana walnut cake. Whether you’re a busy bee on-the-go or a stay-at-home chef looking for inspiration, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Stay tuned for the full list of 20 scrumptious recipes that will make you fall head over heels in love with ripe bananas all over again!

Classic Banana Bread

Classic Banana Bread
Moist and flavorful, this classic banana bread recipe is a staple in any baker’s repertoire. With ripe bananas and simple ingredients, it’s easy to make and perfect for snacking or serving as a dessert.

Ingredients:

– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups 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 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 medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, 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 smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes

Banana Pancakes with Maple Syrup

Banana Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with a stack of fluffy banana pancakes drizzled with pure Canadian maple syrup. This classic breakfast combination is easy to make and sure to please the whole family.

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 melted butter
– 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 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 onto the skillet.
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 (optional).

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins

Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins
These scrumptious muffins combine ripe bananas with dark chocolate chips for a delicious breakfast or snack treat.

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 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, egg, 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 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Moist banana flavor pairs perfectly with the nutty goodness of oats in these soft and chewy cookies. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert, they’re also great for packing in lunchboxes.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, mix mashed bananas, butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes

Banana Pudding

Banana Pudding
Sweet Banana Pudding Recipe

This classic dessert is a warm-weather favorite, perfect for potlucks and picnics. With its creamy texture and sweet banana flavor, it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

Ingredients:
• 4 ripe bananas
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, egg yolks, and vanilla extract.
4. Arrange bananas in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Pour the wet ingredients over the bananas, making sure they’re fully covered.
6. Sprinkle sugar mixture evenly over the top.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until edges are golden brown.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Servings: 8-10

Banana Smoothie with Peanut Butter

Banana Smoothie with Peanut Butter
Kick-start your day or satisfy your snack cravings with this indulgent banana smoothie packed with creamy peanut butter goodness.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine bananas, peanut butter, and vanilla yogurt.
2. Add milk to the blender until desired consistency is achieved.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed for about 30 seconds, or until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or thickness as needed.
5. If desired, add ice cubes and blend until frosty.

Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy to prepare.

Banana French Toast

Banana French Toast
Kick-start your day with a delicious twist on classic French toast, infused with the natural sweetness of bananas!

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
– Pinch of salt
– Maple syrup or honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt.
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. Top with sliced bananas and drizzle with maple syrup or honey (if using).
6. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Banana Cream Pie

Banana Cream Pie
A classic dessert that combines the sweetness of bananas with a rich cream filling, all nestled in a flaky pastry crust.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups pie crust dough (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream and chopped walnuts for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust dough and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
3. Arrange the sliced bananas in the pie crust.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, sugar, and salt until stiff peaks form.
5. Pour the cream mixture over the bananas.
6. Dot the top of the filling with melted butter.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
8. Allow the pie to cool before serving. Top with whipped cream and chopped walnuts, if desired.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Banana Nutella Crepes

Banana Nutella Crepes
Start your day with a delicious twist on the classic French crepe, filled with sweet and nutty goodness.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 2 tablespoons Nutella
– Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, and salt until smooth.
2. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in about 1/4 cup of batter and tilt to evenly coat the bottom.
3. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until edges start to curl and surface is dry.
4. Loosen crepe with a spatula and flip onto a plate.
5. Spread 1 tablespoon Nutella on one half of the crepe, followed by sliced banana.
6. Fold the crepe in half to enclose filling.
7. Repeat with remaining batter and filling ingredients.
8. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until crepes are lightly browned.

Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total

Banana Ice Cream (Nice Cream)

Banana Ice Cream (Nice Cream)
This recipe transforms ripe bananas into a creamy and delicious ice cream without the need for an ice cream maker or heavy cream. A perfect treat for hot summer days, this banana nice cream is also vegan-friendly and refined sugar-free.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other non-dairy milk)
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)

Instructions:

1. Peel the bananas and place them in a freezer-safe blender or food processor.
2. Add the almond milk, maple syrup (if using), and blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Stop and scrape down the sides of the blender as needed to ensure all banana is well-mixed.
4. Pour the mixture into a container and cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
5. Place in the freezer for at least 2 hours, or overnight, until frozen solid.

Cooking Time: 2 hours (or less)

Banana Walnut Cake

Banana Walnut Cake
This scrumptious banana walnut cake is a perfect treat for any occasion. The combination of ripe bananas, crunchy walnuts, and subtle spices creates a delightful flavor profile that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)

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. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, and butter. Beat until smooth.
4. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. Mix well.
5. Gradually add flour mixture to the wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
6. Fold in chopped walnuts.
7. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Banana Caramel Upside-Down Cake

Banana Caramel Upside-Down Cake
Banana Caramel Upside-Down Cake Recipe

This moist and decadent cake is filled with caramelized bananas, gooey brown sugar, and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for a special occasion or just because!

Ingredients:

– 3 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23cm x 33cm) baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced bananas and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 5 minutes).
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in flour.
5. Arrange cooked banana slices in the prepared baking dish.
6. Pour batter over bananas, spreading evenly to cover.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Banana Coconut Bread

Banana Coconut Bread
This scrumptious banana coconut bread is perfect for a sweet treat or breakfast on-the-go. The combination of ripe bananas, toasted coconut flakes, and warm spices creates a delightful flavor profile that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, coconut, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a separate bowl, mix mashed bananas, yogurt, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes

Banana Cinnamon Rolls

Banana Cinnamon Rolls
Moist banana-filled cinnamon rolls wrapped in a sweet, sticky glaze – what’s not to love?

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 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 yeast, flour, sugar, and salt. Gradually add warm water, stirring until dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Spread mashed bananas over the center, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Sprinkle cinnamon and sugar evenly over the bananas. Fold the edges over the filling to form a roll.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Drizzle with melted butter while still warm.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

Banana Chocolate Chip Bread

Banana Chocolate Chip Bread
Moist banana bread meets rich chocolate chips in this sweet treat perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Ingredients:

– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

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 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 chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes

Banana Peanut Butter Smoothie Bowl

Banana Peanut Butter Smoothie Bowl
Start your day off right with this deliciously healthy smoothie bowl packed with creamy banana and peanut butter goodness.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup frozen yogurt (plain or flavored)
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tsp honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Toppings: sliced banana, granola, chopped nuts, and shredded coconut

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine bananas, peanut butter, frozen yogurt, and almond milk.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
3. Pour the mixture into a bowl.
4. Drizzle with honey to taste.
5. Top with your favorite toppings.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes (blending time only)

Enjoy your delicious Banana Peanut Butter Smoothie Bowl!

Banana Foster

Banana Foster
Experience the rich flavors of New Orleans with this classic dessert recipe, featuring caramelized bananas, brown sugar, and rum.

Ingredients:

– 4 ripe bananas, sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 scoop vanilla ice cream
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add sliced bananas and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until caramelized.
3. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the bananas and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. If using rum, carefully add it to the pan and ignite (be careful not to burn yourself).
5. Once the flames have died down, remove from heat.
6. Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of the banana mixture.
7. Serve immediately, topped with whipped cream and chopped nuts if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Banana Chia Pudding

Banana Chia Pudding
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the nutritious benefits of chia seeds, creating a delicious and healthy dessert or snack. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a creamy pudding that’s perfect for any time of day.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/4 cup chia seeds
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the bananas, chia seeds, and almond milk. Blend until smooth.
2. Add the honey and salt, blending until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into a jar or container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the chia seeds to gel.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with sliced bananas or chopped nuts if desired.

Cooking Time: 4+ hours (depending on refrigerator temperature)

Banana Almond Butter Toast

Banana Almond Butter Toast
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying breakfast by combining ripe bananas, creamy almond butter, and crunchy toast.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 2 tbsp almond butter
– 4 slices whole grain bread (toasted)
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread 1-2 tbsp of almond butter on each slice of toast.
3. Top with a few slices of banana.
4. Sprinkle a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Banana Sourdough Pancakes

Banana Sourdough Pancakes
Take your breakfast game to the next level with these deliciously moist and flavorful banana sourdough pancakes. Perfect for a lazy Sunday morning or a quick weekday treat.

Ingredients:

– 1 ripe banana, mashed
– 1 cup sourdough starter (active)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Honey or maple syrup (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add mashed banana, sourdough starter, egg, milk, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Whisk until smooth.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the pan.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Serve warm with honey or maple syrup, if desired.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes (depending on pancake size)

Summary

Get creative with ripe bananas and try out these 20 mouth-watering recipes! From classic banana bread to decadent banana cream pie, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in sweet treats like banana chocolate chip muffins and caramel upside-down cake, or opt for healthier options like banana smoothies and oatmeal cookies. Get inspired with creative twists like peanut butter-stuffed French toast and Nutella-filled crepes. Whether you’re a fan of classic comfort foods or trendy breakfasts, this list has got you covered. Dive in and discover your new favorite recipe!

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