Bananas are a versatile fruit that can be used in many tasty desserts. From classic banana bread to creamy puddings, there are endless ways to enjoy this sweet and nutritious ingredient. You’ll find options for every taste and skill level, whether you’re looking for a quick treat or an impressive showstopper.
These banana desserts offer something for everyone, from kids to adults. You can try simple no-bake recipes or more complex baked goods. Many of these treats use ripe bananas, which adds natural sweetness and moisture. With so many choices, you’re sure to find new favorites to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Banana cream pie is a classic dessert that combines creamy vanilla custard with fresh bananas. To make it, you’ll need a pre-baked pie crust as the base.
Slice ripe bananas and arrange them in the cooled crust. Then prepare a vanilla custard by cooking milk, sugar, and egg yolks until thick.
Pour the warm custard over the bananas in the crust. Chill the pie for several hours to let it set. Before serving, top with whipped cream for extra decadence.
This simple yet delicious pie is perfect for banana lovers. The contrast of smooth custard and soft banana slices creates a wonderful texture in every bite.
Banana bread pudding blends two classic desserts into one tasty treat. It’s a great way to use up ripe bananas and day-old bread.
This dessert has a rich, custardy texture with a crunchy top layer. The banana flavor shines through, giving it a sweet and comforting taste.
You can make banana bread pudding with just a few ingredients. Bread, bananas, eggs, milk, and sugar form the base. Some recipes add rum or vanilla for extra flavor.
It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or weekend brunch. You can serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence.
Banana Foster is a classic dessert that combines warm, caramelized bananas with a rich sauce. To make it, you’ll melt butter in a skillet and add brown sugar, cinnamon, and rum.
Once the mixture is bubbling, add sliced bananas and cook until they’re soft and golden. The rum gives the sauce a distinct flavor and helps it ignite for a dramatic presentation.
Serve your Banana Foster immediately over vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the warm, sweet bananas and the cold, creamy ice cream makes for a delightful treat. It’s a quick and easy dessert that’s sure to impress your guests.
Banana splits are a classic ice cream parlor treat you can easily make at home. Start with a ripe banana sliced lengthwise and placed in a long dish.
Add scoops of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream between the banana halves. Top with chocolate sauce, strawberry sauce, and pineapple topping.
Finish with whipped cream, chopped nuts, and maraschino cherries. For a fun twist, try different ice cream flavors or toppings.
You can also make a no-bake banana split dessert. Layer graham cracker crust, cream cheese filling, sliced bananas, and fruit toppings in a baking dish. Chill before serving for a crowd-pleasing treat.
Banana pancakes are a tasty breakfast treat that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with fluffy pancake batter. You can make them easily at home with just a few simple ingredients.
To prepare banana pancakes, mash ripe bananas and mix them into your regular pancake batter. Add some cinnamon for extra flavor if you like. Cook the pancakes on a hot griddle until golden brown on both sides.
These pancakes turn out soft and moist thanks to the banana. They’re perfect topped with butter, maple syrup, or sliced fresh bananas. Banana pancakes make a filling meal that both kids and adults love.
Banana muffins are a tasty way to use up ripe bananas. You can make them easily at home with simple ingredients.
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix mashed bananas, sugar, eggs, and oil in a bowl. In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring just until mixed. Don’t overmix. Spoon the batter into a greased muffin tin.
Bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Let cool before enjoying. These muffins make a great breakfast or snack.
Banana cake is a sweet treat that uses mashed bananas for flavor and moisture. You can make it with simple ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, and butter.
To start, mix the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet in another. Combine them gently, folding in mashed bananas last.
Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake until golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
For extra flavor, add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter. You can also top the cake with cream cheese frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Banana pudding is a classic Southern dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. This creamy treat combines layers of vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and smooth pudding.
You can make banana pudding from scratch or use instant pudding mix for a quicker version. Either way, it’s delicious and easy to prepare.
To assemble, start with a layer of vanilla wafers in a dish. Add sliced bananas on top, then pour pudding over them. Repeat these layers until you reach the top of your dish.
For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream on top. Banana pudding tastes best when chilled for a few hours before serving.
Banana smoothies are a quick and tasty dessert you can whip up in minutes. To make one, blend a ripe banana with milk and ice. You can use dairy milk or plant-based alternatives like almond milk.
For extra flavor, add a spoonful of cocoa powder or peanut butter. A dash of vanilla extract or cinnamon can also enhance the taste.
To make it more nutritious, toss in some spinach or protein powder. The banana’s natural sweetness will mask any “green” flavor.
For a creamier texture, use frozen banana slices instead of fresh ones. This trick eliminates the need for ice cubes.
Chocolate banana bread combines two beloved flavors into one delicious treat. You can make this rich, moist bread at home with simple ingredients.
Start by mashing ripe bananas and mixing them with melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla. In a separate bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Mix the wet and dry ingredients together, then fold in chocolate chips for extra chocolatey goodness. Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake at 350°F for about an hour.
Let the bread cool before slicing. You’ll love the intense chocolate flavor balanced with sweet banana in every bite. It’s perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack with coffee.
Banana ice cream is a simple and tasty dessert you can make at home. It only needs one main ingredient: frozen bananas.
To make it, slice ripe bananas and freeze them for a few hours. Then blend the frozen slices in a food processor until smooth.
You can enjoy this creamy treat as is or add flavors. Try mixing in cocoa powder, peanut butter, or vanilla extract.
This dessert is healthier than regular ice cream. It’s dairy-free and has no added sugar. You get all the sweetness from the natural sugars in the bananas.
Banana trifle is a delightful layered dessert that combines creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy cookies. You’ll love how easy it is to make.
Start by preparing instant banana pudding mix with cold milk. Then, whip some heavy cream with vanilla extract and sugar for a fluffy topping.
Layer cubed pound cake or vanilla wafers in a clear glass bowl. Add sliced bananas on top, followed by the pudding mixture. Repeat these layers two or three times.
Finish with a generous dollop of whipped cream on top. For extra flair, sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers over the cream. Chill your trifle before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Banana fritters are a tasty treat you can make at home. You’ll need ripe bananas, flour, baking powder, and some spices. Mix these ingredients into a batter.
Heat oil in a pan. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown on both sides. This usually takes 2-3 minutes per side.
Once cooked, remove the fritters and let them drain on paper towels. You can dust them with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
Banana fritters are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They make a great dessert or snack. You can serve them warm with ice cream or honey for dipping.
Banana cheesecake combines two beloved desserts into one creamy treat. You can make it with a traditional baked crust or opt for a no-bake version.
For the filling, mix cream cheese, mashed bananas, sugar, and vanilla. Some recipes add banana extract for extra flavor. Whipped cream gives the cheesecake a light texture.
You can layer sliced bananas on the crust before adding the filling. This adds a fresh banana taste to every bite. Bake the cheesecake until set, or chill it in the fridge for a no-bake version.
Top your banana cheesecake with whipped cream, more banana slices, or even shredded coconut for extra flair. It’s a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Banana tarts are a tasty twist on classic fruit tarts. You can make them with a buttery pastry crust and a creamy banana filling. Some recipes use caramelized bananas for extra flavor.
Try an upside-down banana tart for a fun presentation. Arrange banana slices in the bottom of a pan, pour caramel over them, and top with puff pastry. When baked and flipped, you get a beautiful caramelized banana top.
For a no-bake option, fill a pre-baked tart shell with banana cream. Top it with fresh banana slices and whipped cream. This cool and refreshing dessert is perfect for warm days.
Banana soufflé is a light and airy dessert that will impress your guests. You only need a few simple ingredients to make it – eggs, bananas, sugar, and sometimes a splash of lime juice.
To prepare, mash ripe bananas and mix them with egg yolks and sugar. Whip egg whites separately until they form soft peaks. Gently fold the banana mixture into the egg whites.
Pour the batter into buttered and sugared ramekins. Bake in a hot oven until the soufflés puff up and turn golden brown on top.
Serve your banana soufflés right away while they’re still warm and fluffy. The banana flavor shines through in this light, cloud-like dessert. Your friends and family will be amazed by this fancy yet easy treat.
Banana churros offer a tasty twist on the classic Spanish treat. You can make them by coating banana slices in a cinnamon-sugar mixture and frying them until golden.
To prepare, slice ripe bananas into rounds. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the banana slices for about 30 seconds on each side.
Roll the fried banana pieces in a mix of cinnamon and sugar. Serve them warm for the best flavor and texture.
For extra indulgence, you can dip your banana churros in melted chocolate or dulce de leche. This quick and easy dessert combines the sweet taste of bananas with the crispy, sugary exterior of traditional churros.
Banana eclairs are a tasty twist on the classic French pastry. You start with light, airy choux pastry shells. After baking, you fill them with a creamy banana custard or pudding.
Sliced fresh bananas are often added for extra flavor and texture. The tops get a sweet glaze, usually chocolate or vanilla. Some recipes use banana-flavored whipped cream as the filling.
You can make these at home or find them at bakeries. They’re perfect for special occasions or as a fancy dessert. Banana eclairs combine the best of custardy eclairs and banana cream pie flavors.
Banana brownies mix two beloved desserts into one tasty treat. You’ll love how the banana adds moisture and natural sweetness to classic chocolate brownies.
To make them, mash ripe bananas and mix with melted chocolate, butter, sugar, and eggs. Add flour and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix.
Pour the batter into a lined 8-inch square pan. Bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes. The edges should be set but the middle still slightly gooey.
Let the brownies cool before cutting. You can frost them or enjoy plain. The banana flavor shines through while complementing the rich chocolate.
Banana French toast is a tasty twist on the classic breakfast dish. You can make it by mashing ripe bananas and mixing them into the egg batter.
Dip bread slices in this banana-egg mixture, then fry them in a skillet until golden brown. The bananas add natural sweetness and a creamy texture to the French toast.
For extra flavor, sprinkle cinnamon and nutmeg into the batter. You can also add vanilla extract for a richer taste. Serve your banana French toast with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
For a baked version, layer the soaked bread in a baking dish with sliced bananas. This makes a great breakfast casserole for feeding a crowd.
Banana cupcakes are a sweet treat that combines the classic flavors of banana bread with the fun of cupcakes. You can make them easily at home with ripe bananas and basic baking ingredients.
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line a muffin pan with cupcake liners. Mix flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy.
Add mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla to the butter mixture. Slowly mix in the dry ingredients. Fill the cupcake liners and bake for about 20 minutes.
Once cooled, top your cupcakes with cream cheese frosting for a delicious finish. These cupcakes are perfect for parties or as an after-dinner dessert.
Banana popsicles are a cool and refreshing treat you can easily make at home. To create these frozen delights, blend ripe bananas with Greek yogurt and a touch of honey.
Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, leaving a little space at the top. Insert sticks and freeze for at least 4 hours until solid.
For extra flavor, try adding vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the blend. You can also mix in some coconut milk for a tropical twist.
To remove the popsicles, run the molds under warm water for a few seconds. Enjoy your homemade banana popsicles on a hot summer day!
Banana scones are a tasty twist on traditional scones. They combine the sweetness of ripe bananas with a flaky, buttery texture.
To make them, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Add mashed bananas, cream, and vanilla. Shape the dough into a circle and cut into wedges.
Bake the scones at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown. For extra flavor, try adding nuts or chocolate chips to the dough.
Top your banana scones with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Serve them warm for a delicious breakfast or afternoon snack.
Banana crepes are a delicious way to use up ripe bananas. To make them, blend milk, flour, sugar, eggs, and vanilla in a blender. Let the batter rest in the fridge for an hour.
Cook thin crepes in a hot pan. For the filling, sauté sliced bananas in butter and brown sugar until caramelized.
Spread the warm banana filling on each crepe and roll it up. Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
You can also add chocolate chips, nuts, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flavor. Banana crepes make a great breakfast or dessert.
Health Benefits of Bananas
Bananas offer many health benefits due to their rich nutrient content. They can improve digestion, boost energy levels, and provide essential vitamins and minerals.
Nutritional Profile
Bananas are packed with nutrients. They contain potassium, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and fiber. A medium banana has about 110 calories and 29 grams of carbs. It also provides 3 grams of fiber and 1 gram of protein.
Bananas are fat-free and cholesterol-free. They’re a good source of magnesium and manganese too. These nutrients support bone health and metabolism.
The fruit’s natural sugars give you quick energy. But the fiber helps slow down sugar absorption, preventing blood sugar spikes.
Benefits for Digestion
Bananas can help with digestive issues. Their soft texture makes them easy to eat, even when you’re not feeling well.
The fiber in bananas aids digestion. It can relieve constipation and support regular bowel movements. Ripe bananas are gentler on the stomach.
Bananas contain prebiotics. These feed the good bacteria in your gut. A healthy gut microbiome is linked to better overall health.
If you have diarrhea, bananas can help. They replace lost electrolytes and provide easily digestible nutrients.
Energy Boosting Properties
Bananas are a great snack for quick energy. The carbs in bananas are easily broken down by your body. This gives you a fast energy boost.
The fruit’s natural sugars provide immediate fuel. The fiber helps maintain steady blood sugar levels. This combo prevents energy crashes.
Bananas are popular with athletes. They offer easily digestible carbs before a workout. After exercise, they help replenish energy stores.
The potassium in bananas can prevent muscle cramps. This makes them ideal for active people. Eating a banana can help you power through your day.
Baking Tips for Banana Desserts
Good bananas and the right techniques make all the difference in banana desserts. You can boost flavor and texture by choosing ripe fruit and avoiding common pitfalls.
Choosing the Right Bananas
Pick bananas with brown spots for the best flavor. These riper bananas are sweeter and mash easily. For sliced bananas in puddings or trifles, use firm yellow ones. They hold their shape better.
Freeze extra ripe bananas for later use. Peel and put them in freezer bags. Thaw before using in recipes.
For baked goods, mash bananas well. Remove any large lumps for a smooth texture. Use a fork or potato masher for best results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t use green bananas. They lack sweetness and have a starchy texture. This can make your dessert taste bland.
Measure mashed bananas carefully. Too much can make batter too wet. This leads to dense, gummy cakes or breads.
Mix bananas gently into batters. Overmixing can make your dessert tough or rubbery. Fold them in until just combined.
Watch baking times closely. Banana desserts can brown quickly due to their natural sugars. Check early to avoid burning.
Enhancing Flavor with Spices
Add warm spices to boost banana flavor. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice work well. Start with 1/4 teaspoon per cup of flour.
Try ginger for a spicy kick. Use 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger or 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger per cup of flour.
Vanilla extract enhances banana taste. Use 1 teaspoon per cup of flour in your recipe.
For a tropical twist, add 1/4 teaspoon coconut extract. This pairs nicely with banana in cakes and muffins.
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
