Ripe bananas bring natural sweetness and moisture that fit beautifully into so many dishes. From fluffy breakfast bakes to creamy chilled treats, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy them. They’re a great way to use overripe fruit while making something comforting and delicious. Expect homestyle flavors and a touch of nostalgia in every bite.

Southern Banana Pudding

Southern Banana Pudding. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.
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Silky homemade custard layers beautifully with fresh bananas and crisp vanilla wafers. A from-scratch approach creates a rich, creamy texture that tastes far better than boxed versions. Sweet, comforting flavors come together in every spoonful. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or anytime a nostalgic dessert is needed.
Get the Recipe: Southern Banana Pudding

Bananas Foster French Toast

Bananas Foster French Toast. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Thick slices of French toast soak up buttery caramel sauce with hints of cinnamon and brown sugar. Warm banana flavor adds a decadent, dessert-like twist. Ideal for special breakfasts or brunch spreads. Every bite delivers rich, indulgent comfort.
Get the Recipe: Bananas Foster French Toast

Banana Split Dessert

Banana Split Dessert. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Cool layers of bananas, graham crackers, strawberry ice cream, and hot fudge create a playful no-bake treat. A trifle-style presentation makes serving easy and fun. Perfect for summer parties and family gatherings. Sweet, creamy textures make every spoonful feel like a classic banana split.
Get the Recipe: Banana Split Dessert

Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Moist banana cake pairs beautifully with tangy, smooth cream cheese frosting. Soft crumb and rich flavor make every slice irresistible. Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or casual desserts. Sweetness stays balanced without feeling heavy.
Get the Recipe: Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Ripe bananas and melty chocolate chips bake into a soft, tender loaf. Sweet, comforting flavors shine in every slice. Great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. A classic favorite with a chocolatey upgrade.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

Banana Protein Muffins

A batch of banana protein muffins on a counter.
Banana Protein Muffins. Photo credit: The Honour System.

Almond flour gives a nutty, tender texture while added protein boosts staying power. Naturally sweet banana flavor keeps each bite satisfying. Perfect for breakfast or midday snacks. A wholesome option that still tastes indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Banana Protein Muffins

Easy Banana Pudding

Banana pudding in a bowl with whipped cream and bananas.
Easy Banana Pudding. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy layers of banana, vanilla wafers, and smooth pudding come together in minutes. A no-fuss method keeps prep quick and simple. Light, sweet, and comforting flavors shine through. Great for last-minute desserts or family gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Easy Banana Pudding

Banana Bread Breakfast Cookies

A platter of healthy banana bread breakfast cookies.
Banana Bread Breakfast Cookies. Photo credit: The Honour System.

Soft, chewy cookies deliver all the flavors of banana bread in a grab-and-go form. Naturally sweetened ingredients keep them wholesome. Perfect for busy mornings or healthy snacking. A fun twist on a breakfast classic.
Get the Recipe: Banana Bread Breakfast Cookies

Banana Oatmeal

A bowl of banana oatmeal and a glass of milk.
Banana Oatmeal. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Creamy oats blend with sweet bananas for a cozy, filling breakfast. Ready in just minutes for busy mornings. Natural sweetness means little added sugar is needed. Warm, comforting flavor starts the day right.
Get the Recipe: Banana Oatmeal

Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

Fried Filipino banana turon lumpia on a white plate.
Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crispy golden wrappers surround sweet caramelized bananas. Air fryer cooking keeps each bite light yet crunchy. Classic Filipino street-food flavor shines through. Perfect as dessert or an afternoon snack.
Get the Recipe: Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

Buttermilk Banana Cake

Banana-Buttermilk Cake on a platter.
Buttermilk Banana Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Tangy buttermilk adds depth to a moist, tender banana cake. A smooth cream cheese glaze brings just the right sweetness. Soft texture and rich flavor make it crowd-pleasing. Perfect for brunch or dessert tables.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Banana Cake

4-Ingredient Banana Bread

Easy banana bread 4 ingredients baked in glass dish on cooling rack.
4-Ingredient Banana Bread. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

Ripe bananas turn simple pantry staples into a soft, flavorful loaf. One-bowl prep keeps cleanup quick and easy. Perfect for using up overripe fruit. Great for breakfast, snacks, or lunchboxes.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Banana Bread

Healthy Pumpkin Banana Oat Muffins

Pumpkin banana oat muffins on a white plate with pumpkins in the background.
Healthy Pumpkin Banana Oat Muffins. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Warm pumpkin spice pairs beautifully with sweet bananas and hearty oats. Moist texture keeps every bite satisfying. A nutritious option for breakfast or snacks. Comforting fall flavors shine through.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Pumpkin Banana Oat Muffins

Banana Pudding Cookies

Overhead of banana pudding cookies on a plate.
Banana Pudding Cookies. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Soft cookies pack all the nostalgic flavor of banana pudding into a handheld treat. Creamy sweetness and vanilla notes make them irresistibly fun. Easy to pack and serve for picnics. Perfect for mess-free dessert lovers.
Get the Recipe: Banana Pudding Cookies

Banana Cake Roll

A sliced banana cake roll on a white platter.
Banana Cake Roll. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Light sponge cake wraps around creamy filling for a beautifully rolled dessert. Added nuts and dried fruit bring texture and extra flavor. Soft, rich layers make every slice impressive. Perfect for special occasions or holidays.
Get the Recipe: Banana Cake Roll

Gluten Free Banana Bars

Overhead image of a batch of freshly baked gluten free banana bars.
Gluten Free Banana Bars. Photo credit: The Honour System.

Almond flour creates tender bars filled with sweet banana flavor and dark chocolate chips. Naturally gluten-free and packed with wholesome ingredients. Soft, moist texture makes them feel indulgent. Great for breakfast or dessert.
Get the Recipe: Gluten Free Banana Bars

Old-Fashioned Banana Bread

Sliced loaf of banana bread on wooden board.
Old-Fashioned Banana Bread. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Ripe bananas and chopped nuts bake into a moist, flavorful loaf. Classic homemade taste shines in every slice. Delicious served warm with butter or enjoyed plain. A timeless favorite for any time of day.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Banana Bread

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About the author

Hi, I’m Lucy! I’m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. I’ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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