10 ways to use up overripe bananas

1. Banana loaf

Let's start with the OG way to use up bananas – banana loaf (or banana bread if you prefer). The great banana bread phenomenon of 2020 showed us what a great solution this humble bake is. Overripe bananas will make for an extra-moist banana loaf. Plus, it's super easy to whip up. There are loads of great recipes for banana loaf, but this one by Clem Pedro is just perfect.

Find the recipe for banana loaf here.

2. Choc-banana bread

Tired of the basic version? This twist by food director, Abigail Donnelly, includes pecans and dark chocolate chips for a sweet-and-crunchy treat.

Find the recipe for choc-banana bread here.

3. Banana fritters with apple spice

Fritters may be the easiest (and one of the tastiest) ways to use up a whole host of ingredients, including bananas. This version is dusted in a spice mix that's used in apple pie to make it even more delicious.

Find the recipe for banana fritters with apple spice here.

ALSO READ: How to make self-raising flour

4. Banana-and-hazelnut polenta cake with espresso drizzle

If you're a fan of bundt cakes, you need to add this one to your repertoire. It's impressive (we're looking at you espresso drizzle) but super simple to make.

Find the recipe for banana-and-hazelnut polenta cake with espresso drizzle here. 

5. Genius banana skin cake with avo frosting

Before you knock this one, you should know that the skins of overripe bananas become thinner, softer and sweeter. And when you blitz them in a batter with the banana, you get a smooth, creamy result. Plus, they add extra fibre. (This is also a good tip for banana bread.)

Find the recipe for genius banana skin cake with avo frosting here.

6. Banana-and-buttermilk flapjacks

Making these flapjacks is not only a good way to use overripe bananas but also a fun weekend bake to enjoy with the kids. Gather all your favourite toppings and have a flapjack feast.

Find the recipe for banana-and-buttermilk flapjacks here.

ALSO READ: 5 of the best cakes according to you

7. Banana muffins

Perfect for lunchboxes or tea time, these muffins can either be made as six jumbo muffins or six regular muffins. Simply choose your size, bake and enjoy.

Find the recipe for banana muffins here.

8. Peanut butter-butterscotch and caramelised banana tarts

Peanut butter and bananas are one of the best combos. Add homemade butterscotch into the mix and you have one of the best banana desserts ever!

Find the recipe for peanut butter-butterscotch and caramelised banana tarts here.

9. Coconut-and-banana three-milk cake

This cake has a hat-trick of ingredients that make it epic. 1. The classic banana sponge. 2. The coconut syrup that's absorbed into the cake. 3. The coconut-and-pineapple cream cheese icing.

Find the recipe for coconut-and-banana three-milk cake here.

ALSO READ: 1 can of coconut milk, 5 dinner ideas 

10. Fluffy banana churros with chocolate sauce

These may look different from the long churros you are used to seeing, but are equally fun to eat. The best part? They only take 20 minutes to make.

Find the recipe for fluffy banana churros with chocolate sauce here. 

Free life tip: black bananas make the best bakes. Next time you find an overripe banana in your fruit bowl, peel it, freeze it and save it for the next time you feel like baking (or whipping up a smoothie).

Want more sweet treats? Discover more dessert recipes here.