I don’t know about you, but we love bananas! They are one of the cheapest fruits you can get (score!) and most kids love them. But what happens when they start turning brown? We’ve got 22 delicious answers that finally solve the age old dilemma of “What to do with overripe bananas?”
22 Delicious Answers to “What to Do with Overripe Bananas?”
Sometimes, you can go through a hand of bananas very quickly. But, there are other times where they sit for days. It seems like no matter when you buy them, they start to turn brown the minute you get them home. Even if you’ve tried all the tricks to keep them from browning, it just happens. Rather than tossing out those overripe bananas, try some of these delicious recipes that actually call for brown bananas.
Desserts
These banana blondies are soft and delicious on their own, but they’re taken to the next level when you top them with a browned butter sauce.
Source: Life in the Lofthouse
Looking for a treat that REALLY showcases the banana flavor? Try this Banana Ice Cream – with only one ingredient (you guessed it, bananas) you’ll get a burst of banana flavor in every bite.
Source: One Ingredient Chef
The combination of dark chocolate and bananas in this pudding make it a decadent dessert that you could serve after a fancy seven-course meal, but it’s easy enough to make for your family on a weeknight.
Source: Evil Shenanigans
Can you think of anything better than cinnamon rolls AND banana bread? We can’t either. Take this to your next brunch and EVERYONE will be asking for the recipe.
Source: Picky Palate
Looking for a way to use up those bananas in the summer? Look no further than this easy and healthy strawberry banana ice cream recipe. All you need are strawberries, bananas, whipping cream, and vanilla.
Source: Skinny Mom
Sometimes, simpler is better. Rather than adding your bananas to a recipe, make them the showcase! This pan-fried cinnamon banana recipe is so easy, yet tasty.
Source: Dizzy Busy and Hungry
This banana upside-down cake is a delicious take on the traditional pineapple upside-down cake. If you’ve got a surplus of bananas to use, throw them all into this one!
Source: Self Proclaimed Foodie
Snacks
Bananas that are starting to brown may not look as appealing as you’d like, but they have such a soft texture and sweet aroma. They make these Nutella & banana stuffed crescents irresistible. With just a few ingredients, you can whip these up in no time. They are perfect for an after school snack or quick dessert after dinner.
Source: The Food Charlatan
Bananadoodles are almost as fun to say as they are to eat! Think of your traditional snickerdoodle recipe, now fold in mashed bananas, and you have a fun spin on your favorite cookie.
Source: gGilly Cakes
Forget the store-bought dried bananas and the oil and added sugar that goes with them. With only sliced bananas and lemon juice, these homemade banana chips couldn’t be easier!
Source: Diethood
Similar to a sugar cookie, these banana drop cookies have just the perfect hint of banana flavor. Plus it requires ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Source: Lovefoodies
Want your kids to eat more oats? Make these easy peasy 2-ingredient banana cookies for breakfast. There’s no sugar, so you can feel good about the kids eating them whenever!
Source: Kids Activities Blog
These Banana Chocolate Wonton Poppers are SO good, they’ll be gone in no time! Good thing they’re easy to make – you’ll be asked to make them again and again!
Source: Just a Taste
So you love those peanut butter cups, but hate the nutritional value? Try these Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Cups, a neat spin on the traditional version.
Source: SkinnyMs
Meal Ideas: Breakfast & Lunch
Banana bread is THE go-to recipe for ripe bananas, but give it a spin by cooking this banana bread in your crockpot. It’s so awesome that you don’t have to heat the oven, but you get a moist, cake-like texture.
Source: crockpotladies
Transform an ordinary cake mix into healthier muffins by adding eggs and banana (no oil, and even the eggs are optional). Finally, a guilt-free chocolate banana muffin, for any occasion!
Source: Momcrieff
What could be better than soft, sweet bananas covered in warm, gooey peanut butter? Maybe a little grilling is in order. Don’t believe us? We dare you to try this Grilled Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich and tell us you don’t love it!
Source: lemonthistle
Maybe you’re bored with plain old cereal for breakfast. Jazz it up with these breakfast banana splits. Since this recipe is so simple, there’s no reason to be bored again. Just slice the banana down the middle, add some yogurt and top with fresh fruit or granola.
Source: artfrommytable
Beverages
Thirsty? This tropical inspired smoothie really hits the spot! Top with whipped cream and toasted coconut for the best drink you’ll have all summer.
Source: Glue Sticks & Gumdrops
This simple green smoothie requires three steps. First, throw TONS of fresh greens (spinach, kale, etc.) into a blender. Then add yogurt, a few strawberries, and maybe an orange AND OVERRIPE BANANAS. Lastly, enjoy the natural sweetness from the bananas. That’s ALL you need to enjoy this bright green smoothie, we promise!
Source: Two Peas and Their Pod
Bananas are one of the best ingredients for smoothies because of their natural sugars. They are a healthy way to sweeten up your treat without adding artificial sweeteners. In this version, bananas pair with orange and pineapple for a perfectly sweet tropical summer smoothie.
Source: Clean Eats Fast Feets
For the Furbabies
Who says humans have to get all the treats? Try these quick peanut butter banana dog treats for your favorite pooch. They’ll love them so much. Definitely, time to stock up on bananas!
Source: Damn Delicious
We hope you’ve been inspired, and can now answer the burning question, “What to do with overripe bananas?” Share these creative and delicious recipes. If we had to guess, we’d venture to say you’re planning to buy some the next time you go to the store. Actually, you might even be *hoping* they don’t get eaten right away…right?! It’s so hard to choose, but which one of these will you try first?
