26+ Banana Desserts


Bananas are a versatile fruit that can be used in many sweet treats.

From classic banana bread to creative cakes and puddings, there are countless ways to turn this humble fruit into a tasty dessert.

These 25 banana desserts will give you plenty of ideas for using up ripe bananas and satisfying your sweet tooth.

You’ll find recipes for all skill levels, from simple no-bake treats to more advanced baked goods.

Many of these desserts are easy to make and budget-friendly too.

Whether you prefer chocolate, caramel, or fruit flavors, there’s a banana dessert here for you to try.

Get ready to go bananas for these delicious recipes!

1. Banana Cream Pie

Banana cream pie is a classic dessert that combines creamy pudding with sliced bananas. You can make it easily at home using a pre-baked crust.

Fill the crust with layers of banana slices and vanilla pudding.

Top it with whipped cream for extra indulgence.

For a quick version, use instant pudding mix and store-bought crust.

Add a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or crushed nuts for extra flavor and crunch.

Chill the pie for at least 4 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the filling to set properly.

2. Banana Split

A banana split is a classic dessert you can easily make at home.

Start with a ripe banana sliced lengthwise. Place it in a long dish or boat.

Add scoops of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream between the banana halves.

Top with your favorite sweet sauces like chocolate, strawberry, and pineapple.

Sprinkle on some chopped nuts for crunch. Add a dollop of whipped cream and a maraschino cherry on top.

You can customize your banana split with different ice cream flavors or toppings.

Try crushed cookies, candy pieces, or fresh fruit for variety.

3. Banana Bread Pudding

Banana bread pudding is a tasty twist on classic bread pudding. You can make it easily with ripe bananas and bread cubes.

Start by mixing eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla in a bowl.

Mash some ripe bananas and add them to the mixture.

Pour this over cubed bread in a baking dish. Make sure all the bread is coated.

Bake it in the oven until it’s golden and set.

For extra flavor, you can add a drizzle of warm caramel or vanilla sauce on top before serving.

This dessert is perfect for using up old bread and overripe bananas.

4. Banana Foster

Bananas Foster is a delicious dessert that combines warm, caramelized bananas with a rich buttery sauce. To make it, you’ll melt butter in a skillet and add brown sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of rum.

Cut ripe bananas lengthwise or into slices and add them to the pan.

Cook them gently until they’re soft and glazed with the sweet sauce.

For a dramatic touch, you can ignite the rum with a long lighter.

The flames will burn out in about 30 seconds, leaving behind a tasty caramel flavor.

Serve your Bananas Foster over vanilla ice cream for a classic treat.

The warm bananas and cool ice cream create a perfect contrast of temperatures and textures.

5. Banana Pancakes

Banana pancakes are a tasty breakfast treat. You can make them easily with ripe bananas, flour, milk, and eggs.

Mash the bananas and mix them with the other ingredients.

Cook the batter on a hot griddle until golden brown.

These pancakes are naturally sweet from the bananas. You can add cinnamon or vanilla for extra flavor.

Top your banana pancakes with maple syrup, sliced fruit, or whipped cream.

They’re filling and give you energy for the day. Kids and adults both love this simple yet delicious meal.

6. Banana Muffins

Banana muffins are a tasty way to use up ripe bananas. You can whip up a batch quickly with common pantry ingredients.

Preheat your oven to 425°F and prepare a muffin pan.

Mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in a bowl.

Mash ripe bananas and combine them with eggs, sugar, and melted butter.

Fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture.

Fill muffin cups and bake for 18-25 minutes until golden.

For variety, try adding chocolate chips, nuts, or blueberries to the batter.

These moist muffins work well for breakfast or as a snack. They freeze nicely too, so you can enjoy them later.

7. Banana Ice Cream

Banana ice cream is a simple and delicious treat you can make at home. It requires just one main ingredient: frozen bananas.

To make it, slice ripe bananas and freeze them for a few hours.

Then, blend the frozen slices in a food processor until smooth and creamy.

You can enjoy this immediately as a soft-serve texture. For firmer ice cream, freeze the mixture for 2-3 hours after blending.

Try adding flavors like cocoa powder, peanut butter, or vanilla extract.

You can also mix in nuts, chocolate chips, or fruit for extra taste and texture.

This healthy dessert is dairy-free and naturally sweet. It’s a great way to use up overripe bananas and satisfy your ice cream cravings.

8. Chocolate-Covered Bananas

Chocolate-covered bananas are a simple yet delicious treat. You can make them at home with just three ingredients: bananas, chocolate, and coconut oil.

Start by slicing bananas into rounds and freezing them for about 45 minutes.

While they freeze, melt chocolate with a bit of coconut oil.

Dip the frozen banana slices in the melted chocolate mixture. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to set.

You can get creative by adding toppings like crushed nuts or sprinkles before the chocolate hardens.

These frozen treats are perfect for hot summer days or anytime you crave a sweet snack.

9. Banana Smoothie Bowl

Banana smoothie bowls are a tasty and nutritious treat. You can make one easily with frozen bananas, yogurt, and milk.

Blend these ingredients until smooth and thick.

Pour the mixture into a bowl. Top it with sliced fresh fruits, nuts, or granola for extra flavor and crunch. You can also add a drizzle of honey or nut butter.

Smoothie bowls are great for breakfast or as a refreshing snack.

They’re filling and packed with vitamins. You can customize your bowl with different toppings to suit your taste.

Try making a banana smoothie bowl for a quick and yummy dessert. It’s a healthier alternative to ice cream but still satisfies your sweet tooth.

10. Banana Soufflé

Banana soufflé is a light and airy dessert that will impress your guests. It combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the delicate texture of a soufflé.

To make this treat, you’ll need bananas, eggs, sugar, and a few other ingredients.

Start by mashing the bananas and mixing them with egg yolks, sugar, and a splash of lime juice.

Beat the egg whites separately until they form soft peaks.

Gently fold the banana mixture into the egg whites to keep the airiness.

Pour the batter into buttered and sugared ramekins.

Bake in a preheated oven until the soufflés rise and turn golden brown on top.

Serve your banana soufflés right away for the best taste and presentation. They make a great ending to any meal.

11. Banana Cheesecake

Banana cheesecake combines two beloved desserts into one delicious treat. You’ll love the creamy texture and rich banana flavor.

To make the crust, crush graham crackers and mix with melted butter. Press this mixture into a springform pan.

For the filling, blend cream cheese, sugar, and mashed bananas until smooth. Pour this mixture over the crust.

Bake the cheesecake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for about an hour. Let it cool completely before serving.

You can also try a no-bake version. Simply chill the assembled cheesecake in the freezer until firm.

Top your banana cheesecake with whipped cream and banana slices for extra flair.

12. Fried Bananas

Fried bananas are a quick and tasty dessert you can whip up in minutes. To make them, slice ripe bananas lengthwise or into rounds.

Heat butter or oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the banana slices and cook until golden brown on both sides. This usually takes 2-3 minutes per side.

For extra flavor, sprinkle cinnamon and sugar on the bananas before frying.

You can also drizzle honey or maple syrup over the cooked bananas for added sweetness.

Serve your fried bananas warm as a simple dessert or use them as a topping for ice cream or pancakes.

The crispy exterior and soft, warm interior make for a delightful treat.

13. Banana Milkshake

A banana milkshake is a creamy, cool treat you can easily make at home. To whip one up, you’ll need a ripe banana, vanilla ice cream, and milk.

Simply blend these ingredients until smooth.

For extra flavor, try adding a dash of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract.

You can customize your milkshake by using different ice cream flavors. Chocolate or strawberry work well with banana.

Top your milkshake with whipped cream and a cherry for a classic look.

Or get creative with toppings like caramel drizzle or chocolate chips.

This dessert is perfect for hot summer days or anytime you want a quick, sweet snack.

14. Banana Oat Cookies

Banana oat cookies are a tasty treat that combines ripe bananas with hearty oats. They’re easy to make and require just a few simple ingredients.

To create these cookies, mash ripe bananas in a bowl. Mix in oats and a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor. You can add chocolate chips or nuts if you like.

Scoop the mixture onto a baking sheet. Flatten each cookie with a fork or spoon.

Bake them at 350°F for about 15 minutes until golden brown.

These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with banana flavor.

They make a great snack or breakfast on-the-go. Plus, they’re healthier than many other cookie options.

15. Banoffee Pie

Banoffee pie is a tasty British dessert that mixes bananas and toffee. It has a cookie or graham cracker crust filled with dulce de leche, sliced bananas, and whipped cream.

To make banoffee pie, start with a baked pie crust. Spread a thick layer of caramel or dulce de leche on the bottom. Add slices of ripe bananas on top of the caramel.

Finish the pie with a big dollop of whipped cream. You can add more banana slices on top if you want. Some people like to sprinkle chocolate shavings for extra flavor.

Chill the pie in the fridge for at least 1.5 hours before serving. This dessert is best eaten within a few days.

16. Banana Yogurt Parfait

A banana yogurt parfait is a tasty and healthy treat you can enjoy for breakfast or dessert. To make one, you’ll need yogurt, ripe bananas, granola, and honey.

Start by mashing a banana in a bowl and mixing it with yogurt. This creates a creamy base for your parfait.

In a glass, layer granola, the banana-yogurt mixture, and sliced bananas. Repeat these layers until you reach the top of the glass.

For extra flavor, drizzle honey over each layer.

You can also add nuts or dried fruits for crunch and sweetness.

This parfait is easy to customize. Try using Greek yogurt for more protein or adding a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth.

17. Banana Nut Bread

Banana nut bread is a classic treat that combines ripe bananas with crunchy nuts. You’ll love this moist and flavorful quick bread for breakfast or as a snack.

To make banana nut bread, mix mashed bananas with eggs, oil, and sugar. Add flour, baking soda, and salt. Fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans.

Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake at 350°F for about an hour.

Your kitchen will smell amazing as it bakes.

Let the bread cool before slicing. Enjoy it plain or topped with butter for extra richness.

Banana nut bread freezes well, so you can make extra to save for later.

18. Banana Pudding

Banana pudding is a classic dessert that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. You’ll need ripe bananas, vanilla wafers, and a creamy pudding mixture.

To start, make a smooth vanilla pudding using milk and instant pudding mix.

Layer vanilla wafers in a dish, then add sliced bananas and pour the pudding over them.

Repeat the layers until you reach the top of your dish.

For extra richness, you can fold whipped cream into the pudding mixture before layering.

Chill the dessert for a few hours before serving.

This allows the flavors to blend and the wafers to soften slightly, creating a perfect texture.

19. Banana Popsicles

Banana popsicles are a cool and creamy treat perfect for hot days. You can make them easily at home with just a few ingredients.

To create these frozen delights, blend ripe bananas with Greek yogurt and a touch of honey.

Pour the mixture into popsicle molds and freeze for about 4 hours.

For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla extract to the mix.

You can also dip the frozen popsicles in melted chocolate for a decadent twist.

These popsicles are not only tasty but also a healthier alternative to store-bought frozen treats.

They’re packed with potassium and make a great snack for kids and adults alike.

20. Caramelized Banana Tart

You’ll love this sweet and gooey dessert. Start by making a buttery pastry crust. Bake it until golden brown.

Next, slice ripe bananas and arrange them in the crust. Sprinkle sugar on top and use a kitchen torch to caramelize it. This creates a crunchy, golden layer.

Pour a creamy custard over the bananas.

Bake until set. Let it cool before serving.

The result is a delicious mix of flavors and textures. You get crisp pastry, soft bananas, crunchy caramel, and smooth custard in every bite.

21. Banana Cupcakes

Banana cupcakes are a sweet treat that puts ripe bananas to good use. To make them, you’ll mix flour, sugar, and spices like cinnamon in a bowl.

In another bowl, blend mashed bananas with eggs, oil, and vanilla. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then scoop the batter into lined muffin tins.

Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes until golden brown. Let them cool before frosting. These cupcakes are moist and flavorful.

You can top them with cream cheese frosting or enjoy them plain. They’re perfect for using up old bananas and make a great dessert or snack.

22. Banana Fritters

Banana fritters are a tasty treat you can whip up quickly. To make them, mash ripe bananas and mix with flour, sugar, and spices. Add eggs and a liquid like milk or water to form a batter.

Heat oil in a pan. Drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown on both sides. Remove and drain on paper towels. You can eat banana fritters plain or dust them with powdered sugar.

They’re crispy on the outside and soft inside. The natural sweetness of bananas shines through in every bite. Try banana fritters for a simple dessert or snack. They’re best served warm and fresh from the pan.

23. Banana Peanut Butter Bites

Banana peanut butter bites are a quick and tasty treat. You only need three main ingredients: bananas, peanut butter, and chocolate.

Start by slicing bananas into thin rounds. Spread peanut butter on one slice and top with another to make mini sandwiches. Freeze these banana sandwiches for about an hour, then dip them in melted chocolate.

Place the coated bites back on a lined tray and freeze again. You can add toppings like sea salt or crushed nuts if you want. These bites are perfect for a sweet snack or dessert.

They’re easy to make and fun to eat.

24. Banana Chia Seed Pudding

Banana chia seed pudding is a tasty and healthy dessert you can make in minutes. Mix mashed banana, chia seeds, and milk of your choice in a jar. Let it sit overnight in the fridge.

The chia seeds absorb the liquid and create a thick, creamy texture. The banana adds natural sweetness and flavor. This pudding is packed with fiber, protein, and nutrients. You can top your pudding with extra banana slices, nuts, or coconut flakes.

For a chocolate version, add cocoa powder to the mix. This versatile treat works great as a breakfast, snack, or dessert.

25. Banana Pound Cake

Banana pound cake is a tasty twist on classic pound cake. It’s moist, dense, and full of banana flavor. To make it, mix butter, sugar, eggs, and mashed bananas.

Add flour, baking powder, and salt. Pour the batter into a greased pan. Bake at 325°F for about an hour. The cake is done when a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool before slicing. You can add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.

A caramel glaze on top makes it even more delicious. Serve banana pound cake as a dessert or breakfast treat. It’s great with coffee or tea.

Understanding Banana Desserts

Banana desserts combine sweet, creamy flavors with versatile textures. They offer tasty treats that can also provide some nutritional benefits.

Flavor Profiles and Pairings

Bananas have a unique sweet and creamy taste. They pair well with many flavors. Chocolate and banana is a classic combo. Nuts like walnuts or pecans add crunch.

Spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg bring warmth. Caramel sauce complements banana’s natural sweetness.

Vanilla enhances its subtle flavor. For a tropical twist, try coconut or pineapple. Banana desserts can be light or rich.

Frozen treats like banana ice cream are refreshing. Baked goods like banana bread are comforting. You can make no-bake desserts too. Try banana pudding or smoothies for easy options.

Health Benefits of Bananas

Bananas aren’t just tasty – they’re good for you too. They’re packed with nutrients your body needs. Bananas are high in fiber. This helps with digestion and keeps you full.

They also contain potassium, which is good for your heart. You’ll get vitamins B6 and C from bananas. These support your immune system.

Bananas also have antioxidants that fight harmful molecules in your body. For athletes, bananas provide quick energy. They’re a natural source of carbs and sugars.

This makes them great for pre or post-workout snacks. In desserts, bananas can replace some fats or sugars. This can make your treats a bit healthier.

Tips for Perfect Banana Desserts

Mastering banana desserts requires choosing the right fruit and enhancing flavors. These tips will help you create delicious treats every time.

Choosing the Right Bananas

Pick bananas based on your dessert type. For baked goods like banana bread, use very ripe bananas with brown spots. They’re sweeter and mash easily.

For puddings or cream pies, choose slightly firmer bananas. They’ll hold their shape better. Store ripe bananas in the fridge to slow ripening. This gives you more time to use them.

If you need ripe bananas quickly, place them in a paper bag with an apple. The apple releases ethylene gas, speeding up ripening. Freeze overripe bananas for future use. Peel and slice them first.

Frozen bananas work great in smoothies or thawed for baking.

Enhancing Texture and Taste

Add extra moisture to banana cakes with a splash of milk or yogurt. This keeps them soft and tender.

For a richer flavor, try brown sugar instead of white. It adds depth to your desserts.

Mash bananas with a fork for a chunkier texture. Use a blender for smoother results.

Add lemon juice to prevent browning in no-bake desserts.

Try pairing bananas with complementary flavors. Cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla enhance the banana taste.

Chocolate chips or nuts add crunch and flavor contrast.

For a twist, caramelize banana slices in butter and brown sugar before adding to your dessert. This brings out their natural sweetness and adds a nice caramel flavor.