Name: Baked Bananas
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 large Bananas (ripe and soft.); 2 teaspoons Honey; to taste Salt; to taste Cinnamon

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The moment I discovered Baked Bananas, it felt as though I had unlocked a treasure trove of flavors right in my kitchen. Just imagine those ripe bananas, their natural sweetness intensifying in the oven, blending with a hint of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon. This dish became a staple for us, often making an appearance at cozy family gatherings. It’s the kind of recipe that sparks joy and invites everyone to come together, sharing stories and warmth over simple yet delightful food.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
1g g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
0g g

Tools Used:
Oven, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet, Peeler

What You’ll Enjoy About This Baked Bananas

1. Simple Yet Satisfying

There’s something to be said about a dish that requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor. With just a few ingredients, Baked Bananas offers a satisfying dessert that doesn’t overwhelm your taste buds. You can enjoy it plain or elevate it with toppings, making it feel indulgent without being complicated.

2. Perfectly Versatile

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Whether you want a quick breakfast, a sweet snack, or an impressive dessert, Baked Bananas fits the bill. Serve them with yogurt and granola for breakfast, or add a scoop of ice cream for dessert. The possibilities are endless!

3. A Healthy Option

In a world filled with processed sweets, Baked Bananas stands out as a healthier alternative. The natural sugars from the bananas and the optional drizzle of honey create a delightful sweetness that satisfies your cravings without the guilt. Plus, bananas are packed with nutrients and fiber, making this dish not just tasty, but good for you too.

4. Quick Preparation

With just a few minutes of prep time, Baked Bananas can go from your kitchen to your table in no time. It’s a lifesaver for those busy weeknights when you crave something sweet but don’t have the energy to whip up an elaborate recipe.

5. Delightful Aroma

The smell that fills the kitchen while Baked Bananas are in the oven is simply irresistible. The sweet, caramelized scent mingling with cinnamon creates an atmosphere that feels warm and inviting, making it hard for anyone to resist coming back for a second helping.

6. Family-Friendly

This dish is a hit with both kids and adults. Its sweetness and soft texture make it appealing to younger palates while still satisfying adult cravings. It’s a recipe I love making with my kids, teaching them that desserts can be simple, fun, and still healthy.

Essential Ingredients for Baked Bananas

The beauty of Baked Bananas lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe comes together effortlessly. The stars of the show are the bananas, bringing natural sweetness and fiber. Honey enhances their flavor, while salt and cinnamon add depth, creating a balance that makes this dish truly irresistible.

Bananas: 2 large, ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and a soft texture that makes them perfect for baking.
Honey: 2 teaspoons of honey add an extra layer of sweetness, complementing the bananas beautifully.
Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness.
Cinnamon: To taste, cinnamon adds warmth and a hint of spice, making the dish feel cozy and inviting.

How to Assemble Baked Bananas

Assembling Baked Bananas is a delightful process that anyone can master. With just a few easy steps, you’ll be on your way to enjoying this delectable treat.

Preheat your oven to 400℉ and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Preheating is essential for ensuring even cooking. The parchment paper makes cleanup easy and prevents sticking.
Peel the bananas and slice them in half lengthwise. Place each half on the baking sheet, cut-side up. Take care to choose ripe bananas; they should be slightly speckled for the best flavor.
Rub the bananas with honey and sprinkle each piece with a pinch of salt. The honey will caramelize in the oven, creating a beautiful glaze, while the salt enhances the natural sweetness.
Bake until soft, about 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the bananas to be tender and slightly browned but not mushy.
Sprinkle with cinnamon and serve. The cinnamon adds a aromatic finish that makes this dish so comforting.

Things Worth Knowing

Don’t skip the parchment paper; it ensures easy removal and cleanup.
Feel free to adjust the amount of honey and cinnamon to suit your taste preferences.
For a twist, try adding chopped nuts before baking for a crunchy texture.
Let the bananas cool slightly before serving; they will thicken a bit as they cool.

Helpful Notes about Baked Bananas

When making Baked Bananas, here are some helpful notes to keep in mind:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Enjoy them cold or reheat them in the oven.
Freezing: You can freeze baked bananas, but their texture may change. Thaw and enjoy them in smoothies or as a topping for oatmeal.
Pairing: Serve with yogurt for a healthy breakfast or with ice cream for a delightful dessert.
Variations: Experiment with toppings like nut butter, granola, or even a drizzle of dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter the dish will be, so don’t hesitate to use those speckled ones!

What to Pair With Baked Bananas

Pairing Baked Bananas with complementary dishes can elevate your dining experience:

Yogurt: A dollop of plain or flavored yogurt adds creaminess and balances the sweetness.
Granola: Sprinkle some granola on top for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft bananas.
Ice Cream: For a special treat, serve warm baked bananas with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Bread: Enjoy them with toasted bread for a sweet and satisfying breakfast.
Nut Butter: A spread of almond or peanut butter adds richness and a protein boost, making it even more satisfying.
Chia Pudding: Serve alongside chia pudding for a nutritious and filling meal that harmonizes beautifully.

FAQ

When it comes to baking, the best bananas to use are ripe bananas that are speckled and soft. The ripeness enhances the natural sweetness, making them perfect for recipes like Baked Bananas. Avoid green bananas, as they are too firm and lack the flavor you want. If you have overripe bananas, don’t worry! They are actually ideal for baking, as they are sweeter and easier to mash, enriching your dishes.

Absolutely! Baked Bananas are quite versatile. You can add toppings like chopped nuts, a sprinkle of granola, or a drizzle of caramel to enhance the flavor. Additionally, consider pairing them with dollops of yogurt or ice cream for a delightful contrast of textures. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even layer them with oats or use them in a smoothie bowl.

To store leftover Baked Bananas, simply place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to two days. When ready to enjoy them again, you can eat them cold or reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to bring back the warmth and softness. They also make a great addition to breakfast items, so don’t hesitate to mix them into oatmeal or yogurt!

Yes, Baked Bananas can be considered a healthy dessert option! They are naturally sweet, thanks to the ripe bananas, which provide essential nutrients like potassium and fiber. Using honey adds flavor without too much added sugar, making this dish a satisfying choice without the guilt. This dessert is also low in fat, making it a delightful way to satisfy your sweet cravings while still keeping health in mind.

Conclusion

Baked Bananas is a delightful dish that showcases the beauty of simplicity in cooking. With just a few ingredients, you can create something that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides a healthy treat. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors it brings to your table. Trust me, once you experience the deliciousness of Baked Bananas, it will become a regular in your kitchen!

Baked Bananas

Craving something sweet yet healthy? Baked Bananas are the ultimate comfort food that combines natural sweetness with warm spices for a delightful treat. With minimal ingredients and a quick preparation time, this easy weeknight dessert is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Try it out tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Total Time 25

Servings: 2 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 120

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 large Bananas ripe and soft.
2 teaspoons Honey
to taste Salt
to taste Cinnamon

Equipment

Oven
Chef's Knife
Baking Sheet
Peeler

Method

Preheat your oven to 400℉ and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
Peel the bananas and slice them in half lengthwise. Place each half on the baking sheet, cut-side up.
Rub the bananas with honey and sprinkle each piece with a pinch of salt.
Bake until soft, about 15 to 20 minutes.
Sprinkle with cinnamon and serve.

Notes

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Enjoy them cold or reheat them in the oven.
Freezing: You can freeze baked bananas, but their texture may change. Thaw and enjoy them in smoothies or as a topping for oatmeal.
Pairing: Serve with yogurt for a healthy breakfast or with ice cream for a delightful dessert.
Variations: Experiment with toppings like nut butter, granola, or even a drizzle of dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter the dish will be, so don’t hesitate to use those speckled ones!