Baked Bananas

You can't beat the irresistible allure of a warm, sweet, and gooey baked banana – a simple dessert, snack, or even breakfast. Loved by babies, kids, and adults alike.

If you happen to have an abundance of ripe bananas, we've got a variety of banana recipes for you, ranging from fruit-sweetened banana bread, banana egg muffins, and baby banana muffins to banana oatmeal cookies, banana French toast and banana chia pudding.

Yet, one of the easiest and most delightful ways to make use of them is through this simple baked banana recipe.

Baking bananas brings out the natural sweetness of the fruit and turns them golden with a soft, gooey texture. They taste amazing all on their own or you can dress them up with a range of toppings and accompaniments.

Jump to:

• Reasons to Love this Recipe
• Ingredient Information (and Alternative/Additional Suggestions)
• Step-by-Step Instructions (with Images)
• Serving / Topping Suggestions
• Recipe FAQs
• More Banana Recipes to Try
• Baked Banana

Reasons to Love this Recipe

• Effortless: This is a simple recipe with simple ingredients and the best part is that the oven does all the work for you.
• Versatile: Make it uniquely yours by experimenting with various toppings. (suggestions listed below)
• Nutritious Indulgence: The perfect dessert to satisfy sweet cravings with added banana goodness.
• Waste Not, Want Not: Transform bananas destined for the bin into a delightful dessert.

Ingredient Information (and Alternative/Additional Suggestions)

The full list of ingredients and amounts can be found on the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post. This section gives information on each ingredient and suggests alternatives if required.

• Bananas: Opt for bananas with lots of brown spots for better results. Their softness, heightened sweetness, and superior flavour surpass what's achievable with yellow or green bananas, ensuring a much more delectable treat.
• Cinnamon: Add a pinch of cinnamon or more, depending on taste. You could try subbing for a pinch of cardamon or a drizzle of vanilla extract.
• Honey (Optional): Honey introduces a sweet caramelised effect for a more indulgent dessert. You can substitute it with maple syrup or a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of brown sugar. However, the extra sweetness really isn't necessary, especially if you're cutting back on sugar or serving to young children. The natural sweetness of the banana is often sufficient. Note: Omit honey if preparing for a baby, as it is not suitable for infants.

Step-by-Step Instructions (with Images)

This section features step-by-step photos for visual reference. The complete recipe can be found by scrolling to the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

1. Prepare the bananas: Cut the bananas in half, lengthways, leaving the skin on or off - it's entirely optional and depends on your serving preference. 
   I think it looks a little bit prettier with their skin on and my kids love scooping out the soft flesh from the skin. If you prefer you can also bake them in quarters or bite-size pieces. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 
2. Sweeten and Spice: Drizzle honey over the bananas (if using) and rub it in to cover the surface. Sprinkle with cinnamon.
3. Bake until soft and golden brown on top, approximately 15 mins. The baking time will vary based on the banana's size, ripeness and desired softness. 
4. Serve: Enjoy them as they are or customise them with your favourite toppings. 

Serving / Topping Suggestions

Toppings are a great way to add texture and flavour. Consider incorporating healthy fats and protein with options like nuts, nut butter, or yogurt, or indulge your sweet tooth with choices like chocolate or ice cream.

• Drizzle of peanut butter or almond butter
• Peanut butter dip
• Toasted coconut or desiccated coconut
• Yogurt
• Crushed nuts
• Chocolate chips
• A little maple syrup or honey
• A squeeze of orange juice, lime, or lemon juice for a citrus twist
• Ice cream
• Fresh fruit
• A little whipped cream

Recipe FAQs

More Banana Recipes to Try