10 Ripe Banana Recipes

Are you staring at a bunch of overripe bananas on your kitchen counter, wondering what to do with them? Don’t throw them away just yet! Ripe bananas are not only incredibly versatile but also packed with natural sweetness, making them the perfect ingredient for a variety of delicious recipes. From delectable desserts to satisfying breakfast options, we’ve curated a collection of 10 mouthwatering ripe banana recipes that will have you reaching for those browned bananas in no time.

Bananas, with their soft texture and distinct flavor, lend themselves to countless culinary creations. Whether you’re a fan of classic banana bread or looking to explore more adventurous options, these recipes will help you transform those ripe bananas into delectable treats that everyone will love.

With each recipe, we’ll take you on a flavorful journey, showcasing the incredible potential of ripe bananas in creating delightful dishes. From fluffy pancakes and creamy smoothies to moist cakes and decadent ice creams, you’ll discover a range of irresistible options that celebrate the natural sweetness of bananas.

Not only are these recipes delicious, but they also provide a fantastic way to reduce food waste. Instead of discarding overripe bananas, these recipes allow you to make the most of every ingredient in your kitchen, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

So, if you find yourself with a bunch of ripe bananas, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure. Join us as we explore these 10 ripe banana recipes, sure to satisfy your cravings and add a touch of fruity sweetness to your day. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or an adventurous cook, these recipes are bound to become staples in your repertoire.

Get ready to indulge in the natural sweetness and versatility of ripe bananas. Let’s dive into these recipes and discover the endless possibilities of this humble yet delightful fruit!

Overnight Bananas Foster French Toast Casserole

Indulge in the rich and caramelized flavors of Bananas Foster combined with the classic comfort of French toast in this Overnight Bananas Foster French Toast Casserole. This make-ahead dish is perfect for special occasions or lazy weekend mornings when you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to a memorable breakfast. Join me as we explore the reasons why this indulgent casserole has become a beloved favorite among breakfast enthusiasts seeking a decadent and hassle-free morning treat.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its overnight preparation. By assembling the casserole the night before, you can simply pop it into the oven in the morning and enjoy a stress-free breakfast. The bread soaks up the custard overnight, resulting in a moist and flavorful casserole that requires minimal effort in the morning. It’s the perfect solution for busy mornings or when you want to maximize your time with family and friends.

Bananas Foster is known for its caramelized bananas, and this casserole captures that deliciousness. As the casserole bakes, the bananas become soft and caramelized, releasing their natural sweetness into the dish. The result is a gooey, caramelized banana layer that adds an extra level of indulgence and flavor.

Overnight Bananas Foster French Toast Casserole is a perfect dish for sharing. It’s ideal for brunch gatherings, family breakfasts, or special occasions. The casserole can be sliced into portions, making it easy to serve and enjoy with your loved ones. It’s a show-stopping centerpiece that will impress everyone at the table.

Ingredients

For the French Toast:

1 loaf (about 16 ounces) French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 ripe bananas, sliced
8 large eggs
2 cups milk (any kind you prefer)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Streusel Topping:

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes

For the Glaze:

1/2 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

For the French Toast:

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Arrange half of the bread cubes in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the sliced bananas.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Pour half of the egg mixture over the bread and bananas in the baking dish. Use a spatula to gently press down on the bread to make sure it absorbs the liquid.
Arrange the remaining bread cubes and bananas in the baking dish, then pour the remaining egg mixture over the top, making sure all the bread is coated.
Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 6 hours, to allow the bread to soak up the custard.

For the Streusel Topping:

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix the ingredients until crumbly and the butter is evenly distributed.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the streusel topping until ready to use.

Baking the French Toast:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and uncover. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the bread and bananas.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the French toast is golden brown and set in the middle.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

For the Glaze:

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and drizzling consistency.
Drizzle the glaze over the baked French toast casserole.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Banana Bars with Brown Butter Frosting

Prepare to be enchanted by the heavenly combination of sweet bananas and rich brown butter frosting in these Banana Bars with Brown Butter Frosting. These moist and flavorful bars showcase the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, enhanced by a luscious and nutty brown butter frosting. Join me as we explore the reasons why Banana Bars with Brown Butter Frosting have become a beloved favorite among dessert enthusiasts seeking a delectable and unforgettable treat.

Banana Bars are known for their moist and tender texture, and these bars are no exception. The ripe bananas contribute to the moisture, ensuring each bite is soft, rich, and delectable. The bars remain moist even after baking, making them a satisfying and delightful dessert.

The addition of a luscious brown butter frosting takes these bars to a whole new level of indulgence. Brown butter adds a depth of flavor with its nutty and caramelized notes, creating a perfect complement to the sweetness of the banana bars. The creamy and rich frosting adds a velvety smoothness that makes each bite truly heavenly.

Banana Bars with Brown Butter Frosting offer a heavenly dessert experience, combining the intense flavor of ripe bananas with the richness of brown butter frosting. With their intense banana flavor, moist texture, simple preparation, versatility, and crowd-pleasing nature, these bars are an irresistible choice for any dessert lover. So, grab your ripe bananas, butter, and baking essentials, and get ready to savor the delightful flavors of Banana Bars with Brown Butter Frosting—a truly unforgettable treat that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread Bars:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3-4 bananas)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Brown Butter Frosting:

1/2 cup unsalted butter
3 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3-4 tablespoons milk

Instructions

For the Banana Bread Bars:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Stir in the mashed bananas until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, mixing until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely before frosting.

For the Brown Butter Frosting:

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, swirling the pan occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
In a mixing bowl, combine the brown butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 3 tablespoons of milk. Beat until smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled banana bread bars.
Cut into squares and serve.

Nutella Banana Bread

Nutella Banana Bread boasts a moist and tender texture that melts in your mouth. The addition of Nutella to the batter adds moisture and richness, ensuring that every bite is soft, moist, and packed with flavor. The bananas contribute to the overall texture, making the bread even more tender and satisfying.

Nutella Banana Bread can be enjoyed in various ways, allowing for versatility in serving. Serve it warm as is, or spread an extra layer of Nutella on top for an added indulgence. Enjoy a slice for breakfast or as a delightful snack. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. The options are endless, and you can get creative with how you savor this delicious bread.

Nutella Banana Bread brings together the rich and indulgent flavors of Nutella with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, resulting in a mouthwatering treat that will satisfy your cravings. With its irresistible flavor fusion, moist texture, easy recipe, versatile serving options, and crowd-pleasing nature, this bread is a perfect choice for any dessert lover. So, grab a jar of Nutella, some ripe bananas, and get ready to enjoy the delightful flavors of Nutella Banana Bread—a decadent twist on a classic favorite that is sure to leave you wanting more.

Ingredients

2 large ripe bananas
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1/4 cup sour cream
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup Nutella (or hazelnut chocolate spread)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
Add the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Warm the Nutella in the microwave for a few seconds to soften it. Spoon dollops of Nutella over the batter in the pan.
Pour the remaining banana bread batter over the Nutella dollops and use a knife to swirl the Nutella into the batter.
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Oatmeal Peanut Butter and Banana Pancakes

Start your day with a wholesome and indulgent treat by savoring the delightful flavors of Oatmeal Peanut Butter and Banana Pancakes. These pancakes combine the nutty richness of peanut butter, the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, and the hearty goodness of oatmeal, resulting in a satisfying breakfast that will leave you energized and ready to tackle the day ahead. Join me as we delve into the reasons why Oatmeal Peanut Butter and Banana Pancakes have become a beloved favorite among breakfast enthusiasts seeking a nutritious and delectable start to their mornings.

Oatmeal Peanut Butter and Banana Pancakes offer a nutritional powerhouse to kick-start your day. Oats are packed with dietary fiber, which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied. Ripe bananas provide potassium, vitamin C, and natural sweetness, while peanut butter offers a source of protein and healthy fats. Together, these ingredients create a balanced and nutritious breakfast option.

Oatmeal adds a hearty and satisfying texture to the pancakes. The oats provide a slight chewiness and a subtle nutty flavor, enhancing the overall eating experience. Combined with the creamy mashed bananas, the pancakes have a moist and tender texture that is both comforting and filling. So, gather your oats, ripe bananas, and peanut butter, and get ready to indulge in the delightful flavors of Oatmeal Peanut Butter and Banana Pancakes—a breakfast treat that combines nutrition and taste in every bite.

Ingredients

1 cup oats
1 ripe banana
2 tablespoons peanut butter
1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
Cooking oil or butter for greasing the pan

Instructions

Place the oats in a blender or food processor and pulse until they resemble a coarse flour-like consistency.
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth.
Add the peanut butter, milk, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and honey or maple syrup (if using) to the bowl. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.
Add the oat flour to the bowl and stir until just combined. The batter will be thick.
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with cooking oil or butter.
Spoon about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Use the back of a spoon to spread the batter into a round shape.
Cook the pancakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the pancakes from the skillet and repeat the process with the remaining batter.
Serve the pancakes warm with your favorite toppings, such as sliced bananas, peanut butter, maple syrup, or chopped nuts.

Strawberry Banana Bread

Experience the perfect marriage of juicy strawberries and ripe bananas in Strawberry Banana Bread—a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. This moist and flavorful bread combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the vibrant freshness of strawberries, creating a delightful treat that will leave you craving for more. Join me as we explore the reasons why Strawberry Banana Bread has become a beloved favorite among baking enthusiasts seeking a fruity and delicious twist on traditional banana bread.

This bread not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides nutritional benefits. Ripe bananas are a great source of potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. Strawberries are packed with antioxidants and are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. By incorporating these fruits into the bread, you’re adding a dose of natural goodness to your treat.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
1 cup chopped strawberries
1/2 cup buttermilk

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Add the mashed bananas and mix until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Gently fold in the chopped strawberries.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for

Skinny Root Beer Banana Smoothie

Quench your thirst and satisfy your cravings with the Skinny Root Beer Banana Smoothie—a delightful and healthier twist on a classic soda float. This refreshing smoothie combines the nostalgic flavors of root beer with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, offering a guilt-free indulgence that you can enjoy any time of the day. Join me as we explore the reasons why the Skinny Root Beer Banana Smoothie has become a beloved favorite among those seeking a lighter and more nutritious alternative.

The Skinny Root Beer Banana Smoothie is made with light and nutritious ingredients that provide flavor and health benefits. By using diet or low-calorie root beer and incorporating ripe bananas, you can significantly reduce the calorie and sugar content compared to traditional soda floats. Ripe bananas also offer essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, making this smoothie a nourishing choice.

Ripe bananas serve as the creamy base for this smoothie, adding natural sweetness and a smooth texture. Bananas are also a great source of potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, making them a nutritious addition to your smoothie. They provide a satisfying thickness to the drink while offering a subtle flavor that complements the root beer perfectly.

Ingredients

1 ripe banana
1 cup low-fat vanilla yogurt
1/2 cup root beer (diet or regular)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup ice cubes

Instructions

Peel the ripe banana and place it in a blender.
Add the low-fat vanilla yogurt, root beer, vanilla extract, and ice cubes to the blender.
Blend on high speed until all the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust the sweetness or thickness by adding more root beer or yogurt if desired.
Pour the smoothie into glasses and serve immediately.

Skinny Banana Nutella Dip

Skinny Banana Nutella Dip is made with lighter and healthier ingredients that allow you to enjoy the flavors you love without the guilt. By using reduced-fat or homemade Nutella alternatives and incorporating ripe bananas, you can significantly reduce the calorie and fat content compared to traditional recipes. This dip provides a nutritious and satisfying option for those seeking healthier indulgences.

Skinny Banana Nutella Dip can be enjoyed in various ways, allowing for versatility in serving. Use it as a dip for sliced bananas, strawberries, or other fresh fruits to add a touch of indulgence to your snack time. Spread it on whole wheat toast or rice cakes for a satisfying and guilt-free breakfast or afternoon treat. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and find your favorite way to enjoy this delightful dip.

Ingredients

For the Banana Nutella Dip:

2 ripe bananas
1/4 cup Nutella or other chocolate-hazelnut spread
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional toppings: chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or sprinkles

For the Pie Crust Star Dippers:

1 pre-made pie crust
1 tablespoon melted butter
1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Instructions

For the Banana Nutella Dip:

In a bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
Add the Nutella and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.
If desired, stir in optional toppings such as chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or sprinkles.
Transfer the Banana Nutella Dip to a serving bowl and set aside.

For the Pie Crust Star Dippers:

Preheat the oven to the temperature specified on the pre-made pie crust package.
Roll out the pie crust on a lightly floured surface.
Using a star-shaped cookie cutter, cut out star shapes from the pie crust.
Place the star-shaped pie crusts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Brush the melted butter over the pie crust stars.
Sprinkle granulated sugar over the buttered pie crust stars.
Bake in the preheated oven according to the package instructions or until the pie crust stars are golden brown and crispy.
Remove the pie crust stars from the oven and let them cool completely.

To serve:

Arrange the Pie Crust Star Dippers around the bowl of Banana Nutella Dip.
Serve and enjoy!

Caramel Banana Swirls

The star of Caramel Banana Swirls is the humble banana, which brings natural sweetness and creaminess to the dessert. Bananas are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to your sweet indulgence. When combined with caramel, they create a heavenly flavor combination.

Caramel sauce adds a luxurious and buttery element to the Caramel Banana Swirls. The smooth and velvety texture of the caramel complements the creamy bananas, creating a delightful contrast. Whether you use store-bought caramel sauce or make your own from scratch, its rich and sweet flavor will elevate the dessert to new heights of deliciousness.

Creating Caramel Banana Swirls is a simple and fuss-free process. Start by slicing ripe bananas into rounds. Drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the banana slices, allowing it to cascade down the sides. The caramel can be warmed slightly to make it more pourable. Finally, refrigerate the swirls for a short while to let the caramel set. The result is a visually appealing and delectable dessert that requires minimal effort.

Take your Caramel Banana Swirls to the next level by adding your favorite toppings and mix-ins. Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as toasted almonds or pecans, for a delightful crunch. Dust the swirls with a touch of cinnamon or cocoa powder to enhance the flavor profile. You can even experiment with a drizzle of melted chocolate or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent twist.

Ingredients

1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup hot water
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Add the mashed bananas and sour cream to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
In a small bowl, mix the cocoa powder and hot water until smooth. Add this cocoa mixture to half of the banana bread batter and mix until well combined.
Spoon alternating dollops of the plain banana bread batter and the chocolate batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Use a knife to gently swirl the batters together, creating a marbled effect.
Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips over the top of the batter.
Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Banana Cookies

Banana cookies are one of my all-time favorite treats, and for good reason. These soft and chewy cookies are packed with sweet banana flavor and make for the perfect snack or dessert. Here are a few reasons why I think banana cookies are so great:

Firstly, banana cookies are a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas. We all know how quickly bananas can turn brown and become too mushy to eat, but instead of throwing them away, we can use them to make delicious cookies. Not only is this a great way to reduce food waste, but it also adds a natural sweetness to the cookies. Another reason why I love banana cookies is that they are incredibly versatile. You can add all sorts of add-ins to these cookies, such as chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit, to give them a unique twist. They are also great for those with dietary restrictions, as they can be made vegan or gluten-free by using appropriate substitutes.

Banana cookies are also quite easy to make. Unlike some other cookie recipes that require multiple steps or hard-to-find ingredients, banana cookies can be made with just a few basic ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. This makes them a great option for beginner bakers or for those who want a quick and easy treat. Finally, banana cookies are just downright delicious. The natural sweetness of the bananas pairs perfectly with the buttery flavor of the cookie, resulting in a flavor that is both comforting and satisfying. They are also great for any occasion, whether you are enjoying them with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a late-night snack.

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1 large ripe banana, mashed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the mashed banana and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, mixing until just combined.
Stir in the chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

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