Are you a banana lover looking for some inspiration to make the most out of this nutritious fruit? Look no further! Bananas are not only delicious, but they’re also packed with potassium, vitamins, and minerals that can provide a boost to your overall health. In this article, we’ll explore 18 scrumptious and healthy banana recipes that you can easily try at home.
From classic treats like banana bread and muffins to innovative creations like banana chia seed pudding and air-fried banana fritters, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet treat or a nutritious snack, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So grab some bananas and let’s get started!
Healthy Banana Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies
Start your day with a nutritious breakfast cookie that combines the natural sweetness of bananas, the wholesome goodness of oats, and the convenience of a grab-and-go snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup almond butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, oats, almond butter, honey, egg, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown around the edges.
5. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
Banana Almond Butter Smoothie Bowl
A creamy and nutritious smoothie bowl packed with the goodness of bananas, almonds, and chia seeds.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tbsp almond butter
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup chia seeds
– Pinch of salt
– Optional toppings: sliced almonds, shredded coconut, or sliced fresh fruit
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine bananas, almond butter, Greek yogurt, almond milk, and honey. Blend until smooth.
2. Add chia seeds and blend for another 10 seconds to distribute evenly.
3. Pour the mixture into a bowl.
4. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
5. Add desired toppings (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Baked Banana Chips with Cinnamon
Baked Banana Chips with Cinnamon: A Sweet and Crunchy Snack
Transform ripe bananas into crispy, cinnamon-spiced chips that are perfect for snacking on the go. This recipe is a game-changer for banana lovers!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Peel the bananas and slice them into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix together cinnamon and honey (if using).
4. Add the banana slices to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the cinnamon mixture.
5. Place the banana chips in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt.
6. Bake for 2-3 hours, or until the chips are dry, crispy, and slightly caramelized.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Vegan Banana Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these fluffy and delicious vegan banana pancakes, drizzled with pure maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup plant-based milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– 1 tablespoon vegan butter, melted
– 1 large egg replacement (such as flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water)
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, plant-based milk, melted vegan butter, and egg replacement.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Serve warm with a drizzle of pure maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Banana Chia Seed Pudding
A creamy and nutritious dessert, this Banana Chia Seed Pudding is a perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth while providing a boost of omega-3s and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and almond milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine mashed bananas, honey, and vanilla extract (if using). Blend until smooth.
3. Add the chia seed mixture to the banana mixture and blend until well combined.
4. Pour the pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to set.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Gluten-Free Banana Bread with Walnuts
Moist and flavorful, this gluten-free banana bread is a perfect treat for any time of day. With the added crunch from walnuts, it’s a delightful twist on a classic recipe.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup (100g) almond flour
– 1/4 cup (50g) coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) unsweetened applesauce
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil or butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, almond flour, coconut sugar, applesauce, eggs, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Fold in chopped walnuts and melted coconut oil or butter.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Banana Yogurt Parfait with Granola
A deliciously healthy treat that combines the natural sweetness of bananas, the creaminess of yogurt, and the crunch of granola.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, layer 1-2 slices of banana.
2. Top with 1/2 cup Greek yogurt.
3. Sprinkle 1-2 tablespoons of granola over the yogurt.
4. Repeat steps 1-3 until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of yogurt on top.
5. Drizzle with honey, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in minutes.
Healthy Banana Ice Cream with Cocoa Powder
This healthier take on traditional ice cream uses frozen bananas as the base, blended with cocoa powder to create a decadent and satisfying treat. With only 5 ingredients and no ice cream maker needed, this recipe is perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and place them in a freezer-safe blender or food processor.
2. Add the cocoa powder, honey, vanilla extract, and salt to the blender.
3. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or flavor as desired.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is freezer-bound from the start.
Enjoy your guilt-free banana ice cream with a rich cocoa twist!
Banana Peanut Butter Protein Shake
This creamy and nutritious shake combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of peanut butter, all while boosting your protein intake.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (20g)
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Add the banana, peanut butter, and protein powder to a blender.
2. Pour in the almond milk and add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy.
4. Add a pinch of salt and blend for another second or two.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None (blended to perfection!)
Enjoy your delicious and protein-packed Banana Peanut Butter Protein Shake!
Banana Spinach Green Smoothie
This refreshing drink is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from the banana, spinach, and other wholesome ingredients. Perfect for a quick breakfast or post-workout snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Add the bananas, spinach, Greek yogurt, almond milk, and honey to a blender.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency if desired.
4. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and enjoy!
Air-Fried Banana Fritters with Coconut
Enjoy the sweet and indulgent taste of banana fritters, now air-fried for a crispy and guilt-free treat. This recipe combines ripe bananas, coconut flakes, and a hint of cinnamon to create a mouthwatering dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Air fryer basket liner or parchment paper
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and mash them in a bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together flour, coconut flakes, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add the dry mixture to the mashed bananas and stir until combined.
4. Drop small spoonfuls of the banana mixture onto the air fryer basket liner or parchment paper, about 1 inch apart.
5. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Remove from the air fryer and drizzle with honey.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Tips: For an extra crispy coating, you can sprinkle a pinch of coconut flakes on top of the fritters before cooking. Enjoy your delicious Air-Fried Banana Fritters with Coconut!
Banana Quinoa Breakfast Porridge
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast porridge, packed with protein-rich quinoa, creamy banana goodness, and a hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked quinoa, sliced bananas, and rolled oats.
2. Add unsweetened almond milk, honey, and cinnamon. Whisk until smooth.
3. Cook over low heat for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste.
5. Serve warm in a bowl.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your nutritious and filling banana quinoa breakfast porridge!
Banana Avocado Chocolate Mousse
A rich and creamy dessert that combines the natural sweetness of bananas and avocados with the decadence of dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine bananas, avocado, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth.
2. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler. Allow to cool slightly.
3. Fold the melted chocolate into the banana-avocado mixture until well combined.
4. Whip heavy cream and honey/maple syrup until stiff peaks form.
5. Fold whipped cream into the chocolate-banana mixture until smooth.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None
Servings: 4-6
Healthy Banana Muffins with Blueberries
These moist and delicious muffins are packed with the natural sweetness of bananas, the antioxidant power of blueberries, and a hint of warm spice. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 2 tablespoons honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, egg, and honey (if using).
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Banana Coconut Energy Balls
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick energy boost or a healthy snack on-the-go. Made with ripe bananas, shredded coconut, and natural peanut butter, these energy balls are easy to make and deliciously nutritious.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tbsp creamy natural peanut butter
– 1 tsp honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth.
2. Add the rolled oats, shredded coconut, and peanut butter to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the honey and salt until a dough forms.
4. Use your hands to shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None! These energy balls are no-bake and ready to eat immediately.
Banana Oatmeal Pancakes with Honey
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious twist on classic pancakes! These banana oatmeal pancakes are packed with fiber, protein, and natural sweetness from the ripe bananas.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together oats, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add mashed bananas, milk, egg, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Whisk until smooth.
4. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or 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 a drizzle of honey, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Banana Walnut Salad with Greek Yogurt
This Banana Walnut Salad with Greek Yogurt is a refreshing and healthy twist on traditional salads. The sweetness of the bananas pairs perfectly with the crunch of walnuts and tanginess of Greek yogurt, making it a perfect snack or light lunch.
Ingredients:
• 2 ripe bananas
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 6 oz Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt to taste
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the bananas into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a bowl, mix together the yogurt and honey until well combined.
3. Add the chopped walnuts to the yogurt mixture and stir until coated.
4. Add the banana pieces to the yogurt-walnut mixture and gently fold until all ingredients are well combined.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Roasted Banana and Almond Butter Toast
A sweet and satisfying breakfast or snack option that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 2 slices whole grain bread (toasted)
– 2 tbsp almond butter
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: honey, walnuts, or other toppings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the banana into coins and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast the banana in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until caramelized and slightly softened.
4. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
5. Spread almond butter evenly onto the toast slices.
6. Once the banana is roasted, remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
7. Top the toasted bread with the roasted banana coins.
8. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the banana for added flavor.
9. Optional: Add honey or chopped nuts for extra sweetness and crunch.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (banana roasting) + 2-3 minutes (toasting bread)
Summary
Discover the delicious and nutritious world of banana recipes! From healthy breakfast options like Banana Oatmeal Pancakes with Honey and Vegan Banana Pancakes with Maple Syrup to sweet treats like Baked Banana Chips with Cinnamon and Air-Fried Banana Fritters with Coconut, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy a smoothie bowl or protein shake, indulge in a decadent banana yogurt parfait or avocado chocolate mousse, or try a new twist on classic recipes like gluten-free banana bread or roasted banana toast. Get creative and go bananas with these 18 scrumptious recipes!
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