If you’re anything like me, you may frequently find yourself in a situation where your once beautiful, yellow bananas have turned into these sad, overly ripe eye sores that can’t be ignored any longer. But don’t worry; we’ve all been there. Luckily, there are plenty of things that you can make with your over-ripe bananas — from healthy snacks and desserts to smoothies and unique meals. So don’t put those browned bananas to waste because now is the perfect time to explore all the delicious possibilities a bunch of leftover bananas can create!
What To Do with Leftover Bananas
Got some old, mushy bananas in your fruit bowl that you don’t want to put to waste? Here’s a list of my favorite banana recipes that the whole family will enjoy!
Banana Ice Cream
Banana ice cream is an excellent way to utilize your old bananas. It is easy, vegan, and healthy! Start by chopping ripe bananas into small slices and freezing them on a tray until solid.
Once the banana slices are frozen, blend them in a food processor with milk or non-dairy milk for a creamy, easy dessert that is simply delicious.
Banana Cake
Brown bananas make for the perfect banana cake! This great recipe is moist, flavorful, and sweet without being overly rich.
Just mash and beat two-three brown bananas in a mixer. Then cream the butter and sugar in a separate bowl. All that’s left to do is combine it with dry cake ingredients and bake!
Bananas Foster
You gotta love the good ol’ southern dish, bananas foster! This tasty dessert hails from New Orleans and is often served at restaurants.
The flavors of butter, sugar, rum, vanilla, and cinnamon add a delightful sweetness that pairs perfectly with soft bananas and crunchy walnuts.
Banana Bread
We can’t get through this list without mentioning the classic banana bread. It’s a great way to use up any over-ripe bananas and can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
You can make a basic recipe with just sugar, flour, eggs, and butter, or you can add in extras such as nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit. Whatever your heart desires!
Banana Pancakes
If you haven’t tried banana pancakes, have you even lived? Bananas add moisture and sweetness to your pancakes, so it’s a win-win!
Simply mash up your banana and stir it into the pancake batter, or slice it over your pancakes as they cook. Pair with maple syrup, a dollop of yogurt, or your favorite pancake topping, and breakfast is served!
Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Bananas and oatmeal are a match made in cookie heaven. This soft cookie features both ingredients in its recipe, along with a few other tasty additions.
The banana adds moisture to the cookie, ensuring that it will stay soft and chewy no matter how long it’s baked. The oatmeal adds a wholesome flavor to the cookie that can’t be beat.
Banana Pudding
Love bananas? Then you’ll love banana pudding! A classic Southern dessert, this creamy treat is a great way to use up those leftover bananas. It’s incredibly easy to make, and layers of vanilla wafers and banana slices create a flavorful delight.
Banana French Toast
That’s right. You can use over-ripe bananas to make a deliciously decadent French toast! The banana adds sweetness to the dish — no extra sugar is needed!
Serve your French toast with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of honey for the perfect sweet treat. It’s sure to be a hit.
Banana Smoothie
When bananas get too ripe, they are great for making smoothies. The creamy texture makes a delicious addition to drinks, while the natural sweetness balances out the bitterness of other ingredients. Frozen bananas also make an excellent ice substitute, providing even more flavor and texture.
Banana Muffins
Banana muffins are an easy way to take your leftover bananas to the next level. They are the perfect ingredient for baked goods, as the mushy banana keeps your muffins moist and flavorful.
Remember, the riper the banana, the sweeter your muffins will be. If you want to add a little something extra, dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts, add extra crunch and flavor!
Go Bananas
There’s nothing sweeter than using up your leftover bananas in a way that won’t let them go to waste. From smoothies and cupcakes to pancakes and bread, there are endless options when it comes to recipes you can make.
Don’t let your produce go bad when it doesn’t have to. Put on your chef’s hat and create something delectable while making sure not a single item finds its way into the trashcan. Your family will thank you for it!
