Got a bunch of overripe bananas on your counter? Don’t let them waste away! Our collection of 30 tasty overripe banana recipes is here to help. From classic banana bread to indulgent desserts and savory surprises, these recipes show how versatile this fruit is.
Ripe and overripe bananas are key in vegan baking. They add natural sweetness, moisture, and a creamy texture to your treats. In fact, 5 of our featured recipes use overripe bananas for extra moisture and sweetness. Whether you crave banana bread, chocolate chip banana muffins, or a refreshing smoothie, we’ve got you covered.
With 38 banana recipes to choose from, you’ll find lots of ideas for your overripe bananas. Our collection offers a variety of dietary options, including gluten-free choices. Get ready to delight your taste buds with ingredients like coconut lime, peanut butter, chocolate chips, and even unexpected twists like curry powder and apples.
Join the ranks of industry influencers like Small Town Woman, Beyond Frosting, Well Plated, Preppy Kitchen, and Handle the Heat. They’ve created some of these irresistible banana-infused recipes. Dive into our collection and see how easy it is to turn those spotty bananas into delicious treats that everyone will love.
Table of Contents
Transform Overripe Bananas into Delightful Treats
Don’t let overripe bananas go to waste! Use their natural sweetness to make tasty treats. You can make everything from banana bread to smoothies and desserts.
Embrace the Natural Sweetness of Ripe Bananas
As bananas ripen, their sugars grow stronger. This makes them great for sweet recipes. Overripe bananas add moisture and a caramel flavor to baked goods.
Using ripe bananas in your recipes means you can use less sugar. This makes your treats healthier and taste more natural.
| Recipe | Key Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Banana Bread | Overripe bananas, flour, butter, sugar | Moist, sweet, and comforting |
| Banana Smoothie | Ripe bananas, milk, yogurt, honey | Creamy, refreshing, and naturally sweet |
| Banana Oatmeal Cookies | Mashed bananas, oats, cinnamon, nuts | Chewy, wholesome, and satisfying |
Creative Ways to Use Up Overripe Bananas
There’s more to overripe bananas than banana bread. They can be used in many recipes, from desserts to breakfast. Here are some ideas:
- Banana ice cream: Blend frozen bananas for a healthier ice cream.
- Banana pancakes: Add mashed bananas to pancake batter for a tasty twist.
- Banana muffins: Mix bananas, flour, and add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips for a snack.
- Banana smoothie bowls: Blend bananas with milk and toppings for a nutritious meal.
“Overripe bananas are a gift from nature. They help us make delicious treats and reduce waste. Enjoy their sweetness and get creative in the kitchen!”
By using overripe bananas, you can turn waste into tasty treats. Next time you see them, make something everyone will love.
Mouthwatering Banana Bread Recipes
Banana bread is a timeless favorite. Its amazing smell and soft texture make it a hit with home bakers. Whether you like traditional recipes or new twists, there’s a banana bread for you.
Classic Banana Bread with a Twist
A simple banana bread recipe is often the most satisfying. A classic recipe, with over 5,500 votes and a 4.98 rating, shows its lasting appeal. Using ripe bananas makes the loaf sweet and moist. You can also add nuts, dried fruits, or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique touch.
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
Chocolate chip banana bread is perfect for those who love sweets. The chocolate chips add a rich flavor and texture. Use high-quality chocolate chips that stay melted during baking. Try different chocolates like dark, milk, or white to find your favorite.
Pro Tip: For an extra decadent twist, try swirling a ribbon of Nutella or melted peanut butter into your chocolate chip banana bread batter before baking.
Gluten-Free Banana Bread Options
Gluten-free banana bread is popular due to dietary needs. There are many tasty gluten-free recipes that don’t sacrifice flavor or texture. Use flours like almond, coconut, or gluten-free all-purpose blends for a moist and delicious loaf.
| Recipe | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Banana Bread | 10 mins | 55 mins | 1 hr 5 mins | 12 slices |
| Chocolate Chip Banana Bread | 15 mins | 60 mins | 1 hr 15 mins | 10 slices |
| Gluten-Free Banana Bread | 20 mins | 50 mins | 1 hr 10 mins | 8 slices |
Choosing the right banana bread recipe is key. Overripe bananas make the bread sweeter and more flavorful. If you have extra bananas, peel and freeze them for up to 3 months. This way, you’ll always have bananas ready for baking.
Indulgent Banana Desserts
Indulgent banana desserts offer a wide range of sweet treats. You can enjoy creamy banana pudding parfaits, decadent banana foster-inspired desserts, and luscious banana cheesecakes. These desserts are sure to impress anyone who loves sweets.
Banana Pudding Parfaits
Banana pudding is a beloved Southern dessert. These parfaits layer creamy banana pudding, vanilla wafers, and fresh banana slices. They are stunning and delicious, perfect for any event. Add homemade whipped cream and cinnamon for an extra special touch.
Banana Foster-Inspired Treats
Bananas Foster is a famous New Orleans dessert. It combines caramelized bananas with butter and brown sugar sauce, sometimes flambéed with rum. You can make lighter versions that still taste amazing. Try grilling bananas with brown sugar and cinnamon, then serve over vanilla ice cream.
Banana Cheesecake Delights
Cheesecake and bananas are a perfect pair. Imagine a smooth banana cheesecake on a graham cracker crust, topped with caramel and bananas. This treat is sure to delight your taste buds. Try making banana cheesecake bites or adding chocolate chips for extra decadence.
| Dessert | Key Ingredients | Preparation Time |
|---|---|---|
| Banana Blondies | Butter, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, flour, mashed banana | 15 minutes |
| Banana Cream Pie | Pie crust, vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, whipped cream | 30 minutes |
| Banana Bundt Cake | Flour, sugar, butter, eggs, mashed bananas, vanilla extract | 20 minutes |
| Banana Oatmeal Cookies | Oats, flour, butter, sugar, eggs, mashed banana, chocolate chips | 10 minutes |
Creating indulgent banana desserts is all about using ripe bananas. Next time you have overripe bananas, turn them into these irresistible treats. They will surely make you and your guests happy.
Healthy Banana Smoothie and Shake Recipes
Healthy banana smoothies and shakes are perfect for a quick snack or breakfast. They’re easy to make and full of nutrients. Whether you need a quick energy boost or a meal replacement, these recipes are great.
The Easy 5 Minute Banana Smoothie is a favorite, with a 4.9 out of 5 rating from 43 reviews. It’s quick to make and can be for 2 kid-size smoothies or 1 large one. Here’s what you get per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 122 |
| Protein | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 23g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Total Sugars | 16g |
| Total Fat | 2g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 5mg |
Feel free to add your own twist. Mix in 1/2 to 1 cup of fresh greens or 1/2 cup of your favorite fruits. For a non-dairy version, swap the yogurt for more banana or nut butter.
This recipe has hundreds of ratings and reviews, making it a 5-star hit. People love to add different ingredients like almond milk or cocoa powder. Some even use chocolate whey protein powder for extra flavor.
Frozen bananas are a game-changer for smoothies. They’re a great way to use up overripe bananas. Just cut and freeze them for future smoothies.
This recipe is perfect for those who love to customize and are short on time. It’s a favorite among health-conscious people and busy families. So, next time you have overripe bananas, make a delicious and healthy smoothie!
overripe banana recipes for Breakfast and Brunch
Start your day with these tasty banana breakfast recipes and brunch ideas. They use overripe bananas to make delicious dishes like banana pancakes, waffles, oatmeal bake, and stuffed French toast. These recipes will satisfy your morning hunger and use up those ripe bananas.
Banana Pancakes and Waffles
Make fluffy banana pancakes or crispy waffles for a great breakfast. Overripe bananas add sweetness and moisture. Try adding chocolate chips, nuts, or berries to make them your own.
Banana Oatmeal Bake
Try a banana oatmeal bake for a hearty breakfast. It’s made with bananas, oats, milk, and spices. Bake it for 25 minutes for a warm, comforting meal.
Banana-Stuffed French Toast
Make your French toast special with a banana filling. Sandwich mashed bananas between bread, dip in egg and milk, and cook until golden. Add maple syrup, cinnamon, or whipped cream for extra flavor.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 361 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 57g |
| Protein | 10g |
| Fat | 11g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 6g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 3g |
| Trans Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 62mg |
| Sodium | 173mg |
| Potassium | 566mg |
| Fiber | 7g |
| Sugar | 20g |
| Vitamin A | 137IU |
| Vitamin C | 6mg |
| Calcium | 95mg |
| Iron | 3mg |
Discover 18 banana breakfast recipes and 23 breakfast casseroles. You’ll find something for every morning. From protein-packed smoothies to quick banana oatmeal bakes, these ideas will be loved by your family.
Banana Muffins and Cupcakes Galore
Muffins and cupcakes are great for using up overripe bananas. They mix the sweetness of bananas with different flavors and textures. Whether you want a classic banana nut muffin or a banana cupcake with cream cheese frosting, these recipes will satisfy your cravings.
Banana Nut Muffins
For a classic banana muffin with a nutty twist, try these banana nut muffins. They have mashed bananas, crunchy nuts, and a hint of cinnamon. This mix is perfect for breakfast or a snack. Here’s what you need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 very ripe bananas, mashed
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs, room temp
- ½ cup sour cream, room temp
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Mix the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another. Combine them, add the nuts, and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes. You’ll get moist, flavorful banana nut muffins perfect for any time.
Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins
For a sweet twist, add chocolate chips to the classic banana muffin recipe. The mix of ripe bananas and chocolate is irresistible. Use the same recipe but add 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Bake as directed for delicious banana chocolate chip muffins.
Banana Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
For a decadent treat, try banana cupcakes with cream cheese frosting. The moist banana cake and creamy frosting make them perfect for special occasions. Here’s what you need:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Baking soda | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Very ripe bananas, mashed | 3 |
| Brown sugar | ¾ cup |
| Granulated sugar | ½ cup |
| Vegetable oil | ½ cup |
| Eggs, room temp | 4 |
| Sour cream, room temp | ½ cup |
| Pure vanilla extract | 1 tablespoon |
| Cream cheese, softened | 8 ounces |
| Unsalted butter, softened | ½ cup |
| Powdered sugar, sifted | 4 ½ cups |
To make the cupcakes, follow the muffin instructions but use cupcake tins. Bake at 350°F for 18 minutes. While cooling, make the cream cheese frosting. Frost the cupcakes and add crushed toffee or sparkly stars for a special touch.
These banana cupcake ideas are a great way to use up overripe bananas and create something delicious. Whether you prefer a classic banana nut muffin or a decadent banana cupcake with cream cheese frosting, these recipes will satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your friends and family.
These treats yield 24 cupcakes and take just 20 minutes to prepare. At 331 calories per cupcake, they’re an indulgent treat worth every bite. So, next time you have overripe bananas, try one of these delicious recipes and enjoy the sweet rewards of your baking.
No-Bake Banana Treats
Craving a sweet treat but don’t want to use the oven? These no-bake banana recipes are perfect. They’re sweet from ripe bananas and easy to make. You’ll satisfy your sweet tooth in no time.
The Banana Pudding Parfait is a favorite no-bake dessert. It’s creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers. It’s ready in just 10 minutes!
| Prep Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 10 minutes | 15 |
Banana Energy Balls are a healthier no-bake option. They’re full of dates, figs, oats, coconut, and cacao. They’re vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and egg-free, making them great for many diets.
The ripeness of the bananas plays a crucial role in the sweetness of these no-bake treats. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your desserts will be.
Most no-bake banana treats can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week or frozen for 3 months. They’re perfect for meal prep or a quick snack.
| Nutritional Information (per serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 116 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 13g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 7g |
Next time you have overripe bananas, don’t throw them away. Turn them into these amazing no-bake banana desserts. They’re easy to make and full of flavor, making them a must-have in your dessert collection.
Savory Dishes with a Banana Twist
Overripe bananas are not just for sweet treats like banana bread or smoothies. They can also spice up savory dishes, making weeknight dinners more exciting. Discover how bananas can bring new flavors and textures to your cooking.
Banana Curry
Try a Thai-inspired banana curry that’s quick to make, ready in just 30 minutes. It mixes ripe bananas with red lentils, sugar snap peas, onion, ginger, and spices like Thai red curry paste. The bananas’ sweetness balances the spice, making it a comforting dish.
Many have loved this 5-star recipe, with Dee calling it perfect. Serve it over rice or grains for a nutritious meal.
Banana Salsa
Make your salsa tropical with ripe bananas. This mix of bananas, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice is refreshing and vibrant. It’s great with grilled meats, fish, or chips.
The bananas add sweetness and creaminess, enhancing the salsa’s bright flavors. Adjust the jalapeño or chili peppers to your liking. This banana salsa will be a hit at your next gathering, showing bananas’ versatility in savory dishes.
FAQ
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Source Links
- 38 Recipes (and 5 Hacks) for Ripe and Overripe Bananas – https://www.forksoverknives.com/recipes/vegan-menus-collections/banana-recipes-ways-to-use-ripe-overripe-bananas/
- 10 recipes to make with overripe bananas (besides banana bread) – https://www.katc.com/recipes-overripe-bananas
- 30 Creative Recipes to Use Up Overripe Bananas – https://thesaltycooker.com/30-creative-recipes-to-use-up-overripe-bananas/
- Don’t Throw Those Overripe Bananas Away! Use Them in One of These Delicious Recipes Instead – https://www.marthastewart.com/274361/banana-recipes
- Banana Bars Recipe – The Big Man’s World ® – https://thebigmansworld.com/healthy-3-ingredient-flourless-banana-bread-bars/
- 75 Delicious Ways To Use Overripe Bananas (Beyond Banana Bread) – https://www.allrecipes.com/overripe-banana-recipes-8699052
- Bisquick Banana Bread: The Perfect Slice of Sweetness – https://www.upstateramblings.com/bisquick-banana-bread/
- Banana Bread Recipe (VIDEO) – https://natashaskitchen.com/banana-bread-recipe-video/comment-page-2/
- Banana Blondies – https://life-in-the-lofthouse.com/banana-blondies/
- 45 of Our Best-Ever Banana Desserts – https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/banana-desserts/
- 26 Ripe Banana Recipes That Go Beyond Banana Bread – https://www.southernliving.com/ripe-banana-recipes-8601346
- Easy 5 Minute Banana Smoothie – https://www.inspiredtaste.net/19907/simple-banana-smoothie-recipe/
- Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie – https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/221261/peanut-butter-banana-smoothie/
- Banana Baked Oatmeal – https://www.kimscravings.com/banana-baked-oatmeal/
- 9 Tasty Banana Breakfast Recipes for a Sweet Morning Treat – https://www.bhg.com/recipes/breakfast/banana-breakfast-recipes/
- Banana Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Frosting – https://thecozyapron.com/banana-cupcakes-with-peanut-butter-frosting/
- The Best Banana Bread Recipe (ever.) – https://www.thebakerchick.com/the-best-banana-bread-ever/
- Banana Cake with Cream Cheese or Butter Frosting – Our Best Bites – https://ourbestbites.com/banana-cake-with-cream-cheese-or-brown-butter-frosting-you-pick/
- 3-Ingredient No-Bake Banana Oatmeal Cookies – https://www.theroastedroot.net/3-ingredient-no-bake-banana-oatmeal-cookies/
- Clean Eating No Bake Banana Bread Bites – https://www.runninginaskirt.com/healthy-clean-eating-no-bake-banana-bread-bites-recipe/
- Banana Curry (Spicy Thai Style with Red Lentils) – https://www.liveeatlearn.com/banana-thai-curry/
- Quick and Easy Banana Muffins Recipe (+VIDEO) – https://www.the-girl-who-ate-everything.com/banana-crumb-muffins/
- Cheesecake Banana Bread – https://krollskorner.com/recipes/breads/cheesecake-banana-bread/