15 Banana Recipes for a Delicious Twist

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Bananas are a versatile and delicious fruit that can be used in a variety of recipes, making them a favorite in many kitchens.

Whether you’re looking to make a quick snack, a hearty breakfast, or a delectable dessert, bananas are a fantastic ingredient to have on hand.

They add natural sweetness, moisture, and a delightful flavor to any dish. Plus, they’re packed with nutrients, making them a healthy addition to your diet.

Here are some creative and mouth-watering banana recipes that will make you see this humble fruit in a whole new light. Get ready to enjoy the best of what bananas have to offer!

1. Banana Bread

Who can resist the comforting aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through the house? This classic treat is perfect for using up those ripe bananas sitting on your counter. With its moist texture and sweet, banana-rich flavor, this banana bread is a hit whether you’re having it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing bowls, loaf pan, whisk
No. of Ingredients: 9

Ingredients:

  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1/3 cup melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • Pinch of salt
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and grease a loaf pan.
  2. In a mixing bowl, mash the bananas with a fork.
  3. Stir in the melted butter.
  4. Mix in the baking soda and salt.
  5. Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, and mix well.
  6. Slowly add the flour, stirring until the batter is just combined.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
  8. Bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Allow to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serve With: Spread of butter or cream cheese
Drink With: A hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk

2. Banana Muffins

Banana muffins are a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast or a snack. These muffins are moist, fluffy, and bursting with banana flavor. They’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy, whether fresh out of the oven or packed for a midday pick-me-up.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Muffin tin, mixing bowls, whisk
No. of Ingredients: 10

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 3/4 cup white sugar
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/3 cup melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, mix the bananas, sugar, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
  4. Fold the banana mixture into the flour mixture until just combined.
  5. Scoop the batter into the muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Serve With: A pat of butter or a dollop of yogurt
Drink With: Freshly squeezed orange juice or a latte

3. Banana Pancakes

Banana pancakes are the ultimate comfort food for breakfast. They’re fluffy, sweet, and have just the right amount of banana flavor. These pancakes are quick to whip up and make for a delicious start to your day.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Griddle or frying pan, mixing bowls, spatula
No. of Ingredients: 8

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  2. In another bowl, mix the milk, egg, and melted butter.
  3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
  4. Fold in the mashed bananas.
  5. Heat a griddle or frying pan over medium heat and lightly grease.
  6. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the griddle for each pancake.
  7. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown on the other side.
  8. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

Serve With: Maple syrup and fresh berries
Drink With: A glass of cold milk or a cappuccino

4. Banana Smoothie

A banana smoothie is a quick and refreshing way to enjoy a healthy treat. This smoothie is creamy, naturally sweet, and perfect for a quick breakfast or an energizing snack. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite add-ins.

Recipe

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Blender
No. of Ingredients: 5

Ingredients:

  • 2 ripe bananas
  • 1 cup milk (or almond milk)
  • 1/2 cup yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.
  2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.

Serve With: A handful of granola or a slice of toast
Drink With: It’s a drink on its own, but pairs well with a light breakfast

5. Banana Pudding

Banana pudding is a nostalgic dessert that’s creamy, comforting, and absolutely delightful. Layers of vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, and creamy pudding come together to create a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (chill time: 2 hours)
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing bowls, whisk, serving dish
No. of Ingredients: 7

Ingredients:

  • 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 cups heavy cream, whipped
  • 4 bananas, sliced
  • 1 box vanilla wafers

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the pudding mix and cold milk, and whisk until thickened.
  2. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract.
  3. Fold in the whipped cream until smooth.
  4. In a serving dish, layer vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and pudding mixture.
  5. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of pudding.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

Serve With: A dollop of whipped cream
Drink With: Iced tea or coffee

6. Banana Cream Pie

Banana cream pie is a luscious dessert with a buttery crust, rich banana filling, and topped with whipped cream. This pie is a showstopper at any gathering and a delightful way to end a meal.

Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes (chill time: 2 hours)
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Pie dish, mixing bowls, whisk
No. of Ingredients: 10

Ingredients:

  • 1 pre-baked pie crust
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 4 egg yolks
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 bananas, sliced
  • Whipped cream for topping

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
  2. Gradually whisk in the milk and cook over medium heat until thickened.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks and slowly add a small amount of the hot milk mixture, whisking constantly.
  4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook for another 2 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract.
  6. Pour half of the custard into the pie crust, add a layer of sliced bananas, and top with the remaining custard.
  7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
  8. Top with whipped cream before serving.

Serve With: Fresh fruit or a drizzle of caramel sauce
Drink With: Hot coffee or a glass of chilled white wine

7. Banana Foster

Bananas Foster is a decadent dessert featuring bananas sautéed in a buttery, rum-infused caramel sauce. This New Orleans classic is often flambéed for a dramatic presentation and is typically served over vanilla ice cream.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Skillet, spatula
No. of Ingredients: 7

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup dark rum
  • 2 bananas, sliced lengthwise
  • 1/4 cup banana liqueur
  • Vanilla ice cream

Instructions:

  1. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the brown sugar and cinnamon, and stir until the sugar is dissolved.
  3. Add the banana liqueur and stir to combine.
  4. Place the bananas in the skillet and cook until they are soft and slightly browned.
  5. Add the rum and carefully ignite with a long lighter.
  6. Allow the flames to subside, then serve the bananas and sauce over vanilla ice cream.

Serve With: Vanilla ice cream
Drink With: A cup of espresso or a shot of rum

8. Banana Cake

Banana cake is a tender and moist delight that’s perfect for any occasion. This cake is infused with the sweet flavor of ripe bananas and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, making it a crowd-pleaser at parties and family gatherings.

Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Cake pan, mixing bowls, whisk
No. of Ingredients: 12

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • For the frosting:
    • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
    • 1/4 cup butter, softened
    • 2 cups powdered sugar
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add the flour mixture alternately with the buttermilk, mixing just until combined.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes.
  7. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  9. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until creamy.
  10. Spread the frosting over the cooled cake.

Serve With: Fresh fruit or a dusting of cinnamon
Drink With: A glass of milk or hot tea

9. Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Banana oatmeal cookies are a healthy and delicious treat that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the wholesome goodness of oats. These cookies are soft, chewy, and perfect for a guilt-free snack.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Course: Snack, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing bowls, baking sheet, whisk
No. of Ingredients: 9

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 ripe banana, mashed
  • 1 1/2 cups rolled oats

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
  3. In another bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the egg and mashed banana.
  5. Gradually add the flour mixture, then stir in the oats until combined.
  6. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
  8. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Serve With: A glass of cold milk
Drink With: A cup of herbal tea

10. Banana Nut Muffins

Banana nut muffins are a delightful combination of sweet bananas and crunchy nuts, making them a perfect choice for breakfast or a snack. These muffins are moist, flavorful, and packed with the goodness of bananas and your favorite nuts.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Muffin tin, mixing bowls, whisk
No. of Ingredients: 10

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 3/4 cup white sugar
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/3 cup melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, mix the bananas, sugar, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
  4. Fold the banana mixture into the flour mixture until just combined.
  5. Stir in the chopped nuts.
  6. Scoop the batter into the muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Serve With: A spread of cream cheese or butter
Drink With: A cup of hot coffee or tea

11. Banana Split

A banana split is a classic, indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any ice cream lover. This delightful treat features a split banana topped with scoops of ice cream, whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and a cherry on top. It’s a fun and delicious way to enjoy a sweet treat.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Ice cream scoop, bowls
No. of Ingredients: 6

Ingredients:

  • 1 banana, split lengthwise
  • 3 scoops of ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry)
  • Whipped cream
  • Chocolate sauce
  • Chopped nuts
  • Maraschino cherry

Instructions:

  1. Place the split banana in a bowl.
  2. Add a scoop of each ice cream flavor between the banana slices.
  3. Top with whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and chopped nuts.
  4. Place a maraschino cherry on top.
  5. Serve immediately.

Serve With: Additional toppings like caramel sauce or sprinkles
Drink With: A glass of cold milk or a milkshake

12. Banana Chips

Banana chips are a crunchy and sweet snack that’s perfect for munching on the go. These chips are made by baking or frying thin slices of bananas until they’re crispy and delicious. They’re a great alternative to regular chips and are incredibly easy to make.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Course: Snack
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Baking sheet, knife
No. of Ingredients: 2

Ingredients:

  • 4 ripe bananas, thinly sliced
  • Lemon juice

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Thinly slice the bananas and place them in a bowl.
  3. Toss the banana slices with lemon juice to prevent browning.
  4. Arrange the slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 2 hours, flipping the slices halfway through, until they are crispy.
  6. Let the chips cool completely before serving.

Serve With: A sprinkle of cinnamon or a dip of honey
Drink With: A glass of iced tea

13. Banana Milkshake

A banana milkshake is a creamy and refreshing beverage that’s perfect for a hot day or a quick treat. This milkshake is made with ripe bananas, milk, and a touch of vanilla, creating a smooth and delicious drink that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Recipe

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Blender
No. of Ingredients: 4

Ingredients:

  • 2 ripe bananas
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/2 cup vanilla ice cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.
  2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.

Serve With: A slice of cake or a handful of cookies
Drink With: It’s a drink on its own but pairs well with light snacks

14. Banana Ice Cream

Banana ice cream is a simple and healthy dessert that’s made with just one ingredient – bananas! This creamy and delicious treat is perfect for satisfying your ice cream cravings without any guilt. Plus, it’s super easy to make.

Recipe

Prep Time: 5 minutes (plus freezing time)
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Food processor or blender
No. of Ingredients: 1

Ingredients:

  • 4 ripe bananas

Instructions:

  1. Peel and slice the bananas.
  2. Freeze the banana slices for at least 2 hours.
  3. Place the frozen banana slices in a food processor or blender.
  4. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
  5. Serve immediately as soft-serve or freeze for a few hours for a firmer texture.

Serve With: A drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of nuts
Drink With: A glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee

15. Chocolate-Covered Bananas

Chocolate-covered bananas are a delightful and simple treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. These bananas are dipped in rich chocolate and then frozen, creating a delicious snack that’s great for any occasion.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (freeze time: 2 hours)
Course: Snack, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Baking sheet, skewers
No. of Ingredients: 3

Ingredients:

  • 4 bananas, cut into halves
  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • Toppings like nuts, sprinkles, or coconut flakes

Instructions:

  1. Insert a skewer into each banana half.
  2. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave or double boiler.
  3. Dip each banana half into the melted chocolate, covering it completely.
  4. Roll in your choice of toppings if desired.
  5. Place the bananas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  6. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Serve With: A drizzle of peanut butter or additional chocolate
Drink With: A cup of hot cocoa or an iced coffee

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