11 Surprising Ways to Cook with Bananas – Try Them Now!

Bananas are not only delicious, but they’re also packed with essential nutrients that make them a great addition to your diet. However, many people are unaware of the various ways to incorporate bananas into their cooking. So, to help you expand your culinary horizons, we’ve compiled a list of 11 surprising ways to cook with bananas. These recipes are not only tasty but also healthy, making them perfect for anyone looking to try something new. So, don’t wait any longer – try these mouth-watering banana recipes now!

1. Banana and Peanut Butter Stuffed French Toast (450 calories)

Indulge in this sumptuous breakfast treat that combines the creaminess of peanut butter with the natural sweetness of bananas. It’s a winning combination that’ll make your mornings extra special.

Ingredients:

• 4 slices whole-grain bread
• 2 large bananas, sliced
• 4 tablespoons peanut butter
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Butter or non-stick spray for cooking
• Optional toppings: maple syrup, chopped nuts, or powdered sugar

Recipe:

1. Spread peanut butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.
2. Top two bread slices with banana slices, then cover with the remaining slices, peanut butter side down, creating a sandwich.
3. In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, honey, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and coat with butter or non-stick spray.
5. Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, making sure both sides are fully coated.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
7. Cut in half and serve with your favorite toppings.

2. Baked Banana and Oatmeal Cups (190 calories)

Enjoy a healthy and convenient breakfast with these grab-and-go baked banana and oatmeal cups. Perfect for busy mornings, they’re sure to become a staple in your breakfast routine.

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup mix-ins (chopped nuts, dried fruit, chocolate chips, etc.)

Recipe:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, rolled oats, almond milk, honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
3. Fold in your desired mix-ins.
4. Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the oatmeal cups to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Banana Bread Waffles (320 calories)

Who says you can’t have banana bread for breakfast? Transform your favorite loaf into crispy, delicious waffles that are sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 bananas)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups milk

Recipe:

1. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In another bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix well.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Lightly coat the waffle iron with non-stick spray or melted butter, and pour the batter onto the iron, using the amount specified by the manufacturer.
6. Cook the waffles until golden brown and crisp, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving with your favorite toppings.

4. Savory Banana and Cheese Stuffed Pancakes (340 calories)

Add a twist to your classic pancakes by stuffing them with a delightful combination of bananas and cheese. These savory treats make for a unique and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 1/4 cups milk
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ripe bananas, thinly sliced
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• Non-stick spray or additional melted butter for cooking

Recipe:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
2. In another bowl, mix together milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and coat with non-stick spray or melted butter.
5. Pour 1/4 cup of the batter onto the skillet and place banana slices and a sprinkle of cheese on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface of the pancake. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Repeat with the remaining batter, bananas, and cheese, and serve warm.

5. Banana and Almond Butter Smoothie (280 calories)

Looking for a nutritious and delicious snack? This banana and almond butter smoothie is the perfect solution. With its creamy texture and natural sweetness, it’s a satisfying option for any time of the day.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas, peeled and frozen
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 2 tablespoons almond butter
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Recipe:

1. In a blender, combine frozen bananas, almond milk, almond butter, honey or maple syrup (if using), vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more almond milk if needed to reach the desired consistency.
3. Pour the smoothie into a glass and enjoy immediately.

6. Banana Curry (390 calories)

Add a touch of the tropics to your dinner table with this exotic banana curry. This sweet and savory dish is sure to impress your guests and make your taste buds dance with delight.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 4 ripe bananas, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Cooked rice or naan bread for serving

Recipe:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened.
2. Stir in curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Add diced tomatoes and coconut milk to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
4. Add sliced bananas and chickpeas to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for another 5-10 minutes, or until the bananas are tender.
5. Serve the banana curry over cooked rice or with naan bread, and garnish with fresh cilantro.

7. Chocolate Banana Brownies (300 calories)

Give in to your sweet tooth with these decadent chocolate banana brownies. The addition of bananas makes these brownies extra moist and delicious, perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Recipe:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix together melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Stir in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined.
4. Fold in mashed bananas and chocolate chips.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
7. Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting into squares and serving.

8. Banana and Blueberry Overnight Oats (240 calories)

Start your day off right with these delicious banana and blueberry overnight oats. This easy, no-cook recipe is perfect for busy mornings and can be customized with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Recipe:

1. In a mason jar or airtight container, combine rolled oats, almond milk, Greek yogurt, mashed banana, blueberries, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
2. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed.

3. Cover and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 4 hours.
4. In the morning, give the oats a good stir and add more milk if needed to reach the desired consistency.
5. Top with additional fresh blueberries, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, and enjoy.

9. Banana-Stuffed Chicken Breasts (400 calories)

Surprise your taste buds with this unique and flavorful combination of banana and chicken. The sweetness of the banana complements the savory chicken perfectly, creating an unforgettable dish that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 ripe bananas, sliced lengthwise
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Recipe:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Using a sharp knife, make a horizontal slit in each chicken breast to create a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper inside and out.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with banana slices and a mixture of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Secure the openings with toothpicks to keep the filling in place.
6. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
8. In a small bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, and lemon zest. Sprinkle this mixture over the chicken before serving.

10. Banana and Walnut Energy Bites (150 calories)

These delicious banana and walnut energy bites are the perfect on-the-go snack. Packed with natural energy-boosting ingredients, they’re a great pick-me-up during a busy day.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Recipe:

1. In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, mashed banana, chopped walnuts, honey or maple syrup, ground flaxseed, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well.
2. Refrigerate the mixture for 20-30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
3. Using your hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Store the energy bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

11. Banana Ice Cream (170 calories)

Indulge in a guilt-free treat with this creamy and delicious banana ice cream. Made with just one ingredient, it’s a healthy alternative to traditional ice cream that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe bananas, peeled, sliced, and frozen

Optional mix-ins:

• 2 tablespoons peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup fresh fruit
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts

Recipe:

1. Place the frozen banana slices in a food processor or powerful blender

2. Blend the banana slices until they reach a smooth and creamy consistency, scraping down the sides of the processor or blender as needed. This may take a few minutes.
3. If desired, add your choice of mix-ins, such as peanut butter, cocoa powder, fresh fruit, or chopped nuts. Blend again until well combined.
4. You can enjoy the banana ice cream immediately as a soft-serve consistency or transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours for a firmer texture.
5. Scoop the banana ice cream into bowls or cones, and serve with your favorite toppings.

Top 3 FAQs about Cooking with Bananas

1. Q: How do I choose the right bananas for my recipe?A: The ripeness of the bananas plays a crucial role in determining the taste and texture of your dish. Overripe bananas are sweeter and softer, making them ideal for baking or blending, while firm, slightly underripe bananas work well for savory dishes or in salads.
2. Q: Can I substitute bananas for other ingredients in my recipes?A: Yes, bananas can be used as a substitute for various ingredients in recipes. For example, mashed bananas can replace eggs or oil in baked goods, while frozen bananas can be blended to create a healthy ice cream alternative. Discover more about how to use bananas as a substitute in your recipes.
3. Q: How should I store bananas and banana-based dishes?A: Store whole bananas at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. To slow down the ripening process, you can place them in the refrigerator, but this may cause the skin to darken. For banana-based dishes, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator, typically for 3-5 days. However, the exact storage time may vary depending on the recipe. For more information on how to store bananas and banana dishes, check out this guide.

There you have it – 11 surprising ways to cook with bananas that are sure to add excitement and variety to your meals. With options ranging from sweet to savory, there’s a banana recipe here for everyone. Try these recipes now, and discover the versatility of this amazing fruit. For more creative recipes and cooking tips, check out Allrecipes and Delish.

Wrapping it up all you banana enthusiasts! We’ve embarked on a whimsical journey through the land of bananas, uncovering 11 surprising ways to cook with this versatile fruit. From tantalizing treats to savory sensations, these recipes prove that bananas are anything but boring. So, peel away your preconceived notions, embrace the “a-peel-ing” world of bananas, and try these recipes now! And if you’re in the mood for more culinary inspiration, don’t miss our 12 mouth-watering squash recipes that will leave you craving more. Bon appétit, dear food adventurers! 🍌🥳