Are you a banana lover looking for some delicious dessert ideas to satisfy your cravings? Look no further! Bananas are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of sweet treats, from classic desserts like banana cream pie and banana pudding, to creative twists like banana foster and banana split. In this article, we’ll take a trip around the world of banana desserts, exploring 20 easy-to-make recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
From warm and comforting banana bread to cool and refreshing banana smoothies, these recipes showcase the best of what bananas have to offer. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or like to mix things up with new ingredients and twists, we’ve got you covered. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s get started on this sweet adventure!
Banana Pudding
A sweet and creamy dessert that’s perfect for warm weather or any occasion. This recipe combines ripe bananas, vanilla pudding, and a hint of nutmeg to create a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cups vanilla pudding mix
– 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and butter. Heat over medium heat until the butter melts.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla pudding mix until smooth.
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
4. In a large bowl, combine sliced bananas and cooled pudding mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Sprinkle with nutmeg and salt to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is chilled.
Banana Bread
Moist and flavorful, this banana bread recipe is a staple in many households. Perfect for snacking or as a dessert topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Banana Cream Pie
This classic dessert is a crowd-pleaser, with layers of flaky pastry, creamy banana filling, and a hint of vanilla sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
3. Arrange banana slices in the crust, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, melted butter, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
5. Pour the creamy mixture over the bananas, making sure they’re fully covered.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
7. Allow the pie to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Banana Split
A classic dessert that’s perfect for warm weather and special occasions. This recipe combines the sweetness of bananas, chocolate, and caramel with crunchy nuts and creamy ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana, cut into 3-4 pieces
– 1 scoop each of vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate ice cream
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– 1 tablespoon caramel sauce
– 1 tablespoon melted chocolate (such as Hershey’s)
– Whipped cream and a cherry for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the banana into pieces and place them on a serving dish or glass.
2. Scoop one portion each of vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate ice cream over the bananas.
3. Sprinkle chopped nuts evenly over the top of the ice cream.
4. Drizzle caramel sauce and melted chocolate in a zig-zag pattern over the nuts.
5. Top with whipped cream and a cherry, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake dessert.
Banana Foster
Experience the rich flavors of New Orleans with this classic dessert recipe, featuring caramelized bananas, brown sugar, and rum-infused sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas, sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (optional)
– 1 tablespoon Grand Marnier liqueur (optional)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream and chopped walnuts for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add sliced bananas and cook for 2-3 minutes or until caramelized.
3. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the bananas and cook for an additional minute.
4. If using rum and Grand Marnier, carefully pour them into the skillet, allowing the sauce to simmer and thicken.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
6. Serve warm with whipped cream and chopped walnuts (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Banana Muffins
Moist and delicious banana muffins perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yield: 12 muffins
Banana Pancakes
Start your day off right with these moist and delicious banana pancakes, packed with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Fresh fruit or syrup for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, combine mashed bananas, milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or cooking spray if necessary.
5. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as fresh fruit or syrup.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes for 8-10 pancakes.
Banana Ice Cream
This simple recipe transforms ripe bananas into a creamy and delicious ice cream without an ice cream maker or churning required. Perfect for warm weather or as a healthy dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and place them in a freezer-safe blender or food processor.
2. Add the heavy cream, honey (if using), and salt to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Pour the mixture into an airtight container and cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
5. Freeze for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Scoop and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None (freezer time only)
Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of chocolate chips, creating a delightful treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Add mashed bananas and mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Banana Cake
This classic banana cake recipe is a crowd-pleaser, with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas balanced by the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg. Perfect for snacking or as a dessert, this moist and flavorful cake is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Banana French Toast
Start your day with a sweet twist on classic French toast by adding sliced bananas and a hint of cinnamon to the mix!
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably Challah or brioche)
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and cinnamon until well combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, place sliced bananas on top of the cooked French toast.
6. Drizzle with melted butter and maple syrup (if using).
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Banana Smoothie
A classic and refreshing drink perfect for any time of the day. This smoothie is made with ripe bananas, yogurt, and honey, blended to a creamy texture.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup plain yogurt (low-fat or nonfat)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and place them in a blender.
2. Add the yogurt and honey to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. If desired, add ice cubes and blend until combined.
6. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2 minutes
Banana Tart
Banana Tart Recipe: A Sweet Treat for Any Occasion
This classic dessert is a crowd-pleaser, with the sweetness of ripe bananas paired with the flaky crust and caramelized sugar. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or just because.
Ingredients:
- 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Bake the pie crust according to package instructions or recipe.
- In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add sliced bananas and cook for about 5 minutes, or until caramelized and tender.
- Arrange the cooked banana slices on top of the baked pie crust.
- Dust with granulated sugar and drizzle with melted butter.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the sugar is caramelized and the bananas are heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Banana Tart!
Banana Parfait
A delicious and healthy dessert that combines fresh bananas, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola, perfect for a quick snack or special treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the vanilla yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Layer the sliced bananas, yogurt mixture, and granola in a tall glass or parfait dish.
3. Repeat the layers one more time, ending with a layer of granola on top.
4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
Banana Crumble
Moist bananas wrapped in a crunchy oat topping – a perfect dessert for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced bananas and brown sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together oats, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Add cold butter to the dry mixture and use your fingers or a pastry blender to work it into a crumbly texture.
5. Top banana mixture with oat topping, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Banana Cheesecake
Enjoy a creamy and sweet dessert that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of cheesecake.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until well combined. Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Arrange banana slices on top of the crust.
4. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and beat until combined. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Pour cheesecake batter over bananas.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely on a wire rack before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Banana Caramel Flan
This Banana Caramel Flan recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas with a rich caramel sauce, all nestled within a creamy flan base. Perfect for dessert or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a blender, puree the bananas until smooth.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, heavy cream, and salt.
4. Add vanilla extract and melted butter; whisk until combined.
5. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or custard cups.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set and centers are slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
8. Drizzle with caramel sauce and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Banana Oatmeal Bars
These moist and flavorful bars combine the natural sweetness of bananas with the wholesome goodness of oatmeal, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter and mashed bananas.
4. Add the egg to the banana mixture and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Banana Churros
Sweet and crispy churros infused with ripe banana flavor, perfect as a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add mashed bananas and mix until a dough forms.
4. Gradually add eggs and mix until smooth.
5. Pipe the dough through a star tip into the hot oil in long strips.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
8. Dust with powdered sugar while still warm.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Banana S’mores
Elevate your s’mores game with the addition of ripe bananas and a hint of caramelized sweetness. This twist on the classic campfire treat is sure to delight both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup marshmallow creme
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– Fire or a kitchen torch (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your fire pit or oven to medium-high heat.
2. Place a graham cracker on a flat surface and top with a slice of banana, followed by a few chocolate chips.
3. Drizzle marshmallow creme over the chocolate and sprinkle with sea salt.
4. Sandwich with another graham cracker to create a s’mores sandwich.
5. If desired, toast the s’mores over a fire or use a kitchen torch to caramelize the banana.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per s’mores sandwich (depending on heat source)
Summary
Indulge in the sweet and creamy world of banana desserts! This article presents a collection of 20 mouth-watering recipes that are easy to make and sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic treats like banana pudding and banana bread, to decadent indulgences like banana cream pie and banana cheesecake, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and fruity or rich and indulgent, these recipes will guide you every step of the way. Get ready to go bananas with these delicious dessert ideas!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
