10+ Healthy Recipes with Ripe Bananas for Delicious Snacking
Ripe bananas are a versatile ingredient that can enhance many dishes in your kitchen. You can turn those overripe bananas into delicious and healthy meals, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
Whether you’re looking for breakfast ideas, snacks, or desserts, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this nutritious fruit.
Using ripe bananas not only adds natural sweetness to your recipes but also provides essential nutrients. From smoothies to baked goods, you’ll discover how simple it is to incorporate bananas into a variety of healthy meals you and your family will love.
Banana Oatmeal Pancakes
Banana oatmeal pancakes are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy ripe bananas. These pancakes are easy to make and packed with flavor.
To start, you need very ripe bananas. The more brown spots they have, the sweeter your pancakes will be.
You can mix the bananas with rolled oats, eggs, and a pinch of salt. Blending these ingredients creates a smooth batter.
Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. You can lightly grease the pan with oil.
Pour spoonfuls of your batter onto the pan. Cook until golden brown on both sides.
These pancakes are not only tasty but also nutritious. You can add extras like cinnamon or nuts for extra flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup rolled oats
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: cinnamon, vanilla extract, or mix-ins like berries
Cooking Instructions
- In a blender, combine bananas, eggs, oats, and salt.
- Blend until smooth and thick.
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
- Grease the pan lightly.
- Pour batter into the pan and cook until golden brown on each side.
2) Healthy Banana Muffins
Healthy banana muffins are a great way to use ripe bananas. They are moist and naturally sweetened. You can prepare them quickly in just one bowl.
These muffins are perfect for breakfast or as a snack. You can even freeze them for later. Just grab one when you need a quick treat.
To make these muffins, you will need ingredients like oats, whole wheat flour, and honey. Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup oats
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional: chocolate chips or nuts
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas.
- Mix in honey and coconut oil.
- Add the flour, oats, baking soda, and salt. Stir until combined.
- Fold in any optional ingredients.
- Pour the batter into a muffin tin.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
3) Banana Chia Seed Pudding
Banana chia seed pudding is a delicious and nutritious treat. It’s simple to make and perfect for breakfast or a snack.
To start, you need ripe bananas. Their natural sweetness makes this pudding really tasty. You’ll also need chia seeds, which are great for adding texture and nutrition. Use your choice of milk, whether dairy or non-dairy.
To prepare, mash the bananas in a mixing bowl. Add the chia seeds and milk, then mix everything together.
Let it sit for about 30 minutes to thicken. After that, chill it in the fridge for a few hours. This waiting time helps the flavors blend nicely.
Enjoy your pudding as is, or add toppings like nuts, berries, or a drizzle of honey for extra taste.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any milk)
- 1/2 cup chia seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
- Mash the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl.
- Add chia seeds and milk, then mix well.
- Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes.
- Refrigerate for a few hours until it thickens.
- Serve it cold with your favorite toppings.
4) Banana Smoothie Bowl
A banana smoothie bowl is a quick and healthy breakfast option. You can enjoy it creamy and sweet, topped with your favorite ingredients. The base is made with frozen ripe bananas, giving it a delightful texture.
To make your smoothie bowl, start with 2 ripe bananas. Slice them and freeze until solid.
Blend the frozen bananas until smooth. You can add a splash of milk or yogurt to achieve your desired consistency.
Now, let’s talk toppings. You can add granola, nuts, seeds, or even berries. A scoop of peanut butter adds protein and flavor.
Feel free to get creative with whatever you have on hand!
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas (frozen)
- 1/2 cup of milk or yogurt
- Toppings: granola, nuts, seeds, berries, or peanut butter
Cooking Instructions
- Peel and slice the ripe bananas.
- Freeze the banana slices until solid.
- Blend frozen banana slices with milk or yogurt until smooth.
- Pour into a bowl and add your favorite toppings. Enjoy!
5) Banana and Walnut Bread
Banana and walnut bread is a delicious way to use up ripe bananas. It’s moist, tasty, and perfect for breakfast or a snack. The walnuts add a nice crunch and extra flavor.
To make this bread, you’ll need some simple ingredients. Start with ripe bananas, as they are key to a moist texture. You can also use honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness.
The recipe is easy to follow. Just mash the bananas and mix them with your wet ingredients. Then, combine the dry ingredients and fold in chopped walnuts.
Bake your banana walnut bread at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick comes out clean. This bread freezes well, so you can enjoy it later too!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup yogurt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mash the bananas.
- Add honey, yogurt, olive oil, and vanilla to the mashed bananas.
- In another bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients.
- Fold in the chopped walnuts.
- Pour the mixture into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6) Grilled Banana with Honey
Grilled bananas with honey are a simple and delicious dessert. They are perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy night in. The grilling brings out the natural sweetness of the bananas.
Start with ripe bananas. Make sure they are firm but not too soft. You can leave the skins on while grilling. This helps keep the bananas intact and adds flavor.
Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
Cut the bananas in half lengthwise, but leave the peel on. Lightly brush the fruit side with melted butter for extra flavor.
Place the bananas on the grill. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the fruit is soft and has nice grill marks. Drizzle honey over the grilled bananas just before serving.
You can enjoy them as is or top them with yogurt or nuts for added texture.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Honey, to taste
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat the grill to medium (350°F or 175°C).
- Cut bananas in half lengthwise, keeping the peel on.
- Brush the fruit side with melted butter.
- Grill for 3-4 minutes until soft.
- Drizzle honey and serve.
7) Banana Yogurt Parfait
A banana yogurt parfait is a tasty and healthy option for breakfast or a snack. It’s simple to make and uses ripe bananas that add natural sweetness. You can layer yogurt, banana slices, and granola to create a delicious treat.
To start, slice your ripe bananas. In a bowl or glass, layer the yogurt and banana slices. You can add granola for some crunch. Repeat the layers as needed.
For extra sweetness, drizzle honey or maple syrup on top.
This parfait is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients. The combination of banana, yogurt, and granola gives you protein, fiber, and healthy fats. It’s perfect for a quick meal on busy mornings or enjoyed as a dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 2 cups yogurt (Greek or regular)
- 1/2 cup granola
- Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Cooking Instructions
- Slice the ripe bananas into small rounds.
- In a bowl or glass, layer yogurt and banana slices.
- Add granola to each layer if desired.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.
- Drizzle with honey or maple syrup before serving.
8) Banana Almond Butter Toast
Banana almond butter toast is a quick and healthy snack or breakfast option. It’s easy to make and provides a good balance of nutrients. The creamy almond butter pairs well with the natural sweetness of bananas.
Start with your favorite bread. Whole grain bread adds extra fiber and nutrients. Toast it lightly to enhance the flavors.
Spread almond butter generously on the warm toast. It’s rich in healthy fats and protein. Top it with sliced bananas for added sweetness and potassium.
You can also add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor. This toast not only tastes great but also keeps you full for longer.
Ingredients
- 2 slices of whole grain bread
- 2 tablespoons of almond butter
- 1 ripe banana, sliced
- Optional: honey or cinnamon
Cooking Instructions
- Toast the bread until golden brown.
- Spread almond butter on the toast.
- Slice the banana and arrange the slices on top.
- Add honey or cinnamon if desired. Enjoy!
9) Banana Spinach Smoothie
The Banana Spinach Smoothie is a simple and healthy drink. It combines ripe bananas and fresh spinach, giving you a delicious boost of nutrients. This smoothie is creamy, naturally sweet, and perfect for breakfast or a snack.
To make it, start by gathering your ingredients. Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and creaminess. Meanwhile, spinach adds vitamins and minerals without changing the taste much.
You can customize your smoothie by adding yogurt or your favorite milk. If you like a colder drink, try using frozen bananas.
This smoothie is not only tasty, but it also offers health benefits. Spinach is good for your bones, while bananas support heart health. Enjoy this quick recipe to nourish your body.
Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- Optional: ½ cup yogurt
Cooking Instructions
- Peel the banana and break it into pieces.
- Add the banana, spinach, and milk to a blender.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy!
10) Banana Peanut Butter Overnight Oats
Banana peanut butter overnight oats are a simple and tasty breakfast. They’re perfect when you want something healthy and filling. Plus, they take just a few minutes to prepare!
To make these oats, you start with rolled oats and mix them with peanut butter, honey, and yogurt. Then, you stir in sliced ripe bananas. The bananas not only add sweetness but also a creamy texture.
Pour in your choice of milk and mix everything well. Make sure to cover the bowl or jar, then refrigerate overnight. This lets the oats soften and absorb all the flavors.
In the morning, you can add extra banana slices or a drizzle of peanut butter on top. It’s a delicious way to kick off your day!
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1 cup milk (almond or regular)
Cooking Instructions
- Mix oats, peanut butter, honey, and yogurt in a bowl.
- Stir in the sliced bananas.
- Pour in the milk and mix well.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Serve cold, adding more banana and peanut butter if desired.