Are you looking for some delicious and nutritious banana recipes to try with your little ones? Look no further! We have gathered a collection of 10 healthy and simple banana recipes that your kids will love. From baked bananas to homemade pudding and easy peanut butter snacks, these recipes are not only tasty but also packed with goodness.
Baked Banana
This recipe for baked bananas is a fantastic way to introduce this versatile fruit to your kids. Simply peel the bananas, place them on a baking tray, and bake them until they are soft and caramelized. The result is a sweet and gooey treat that your little ones will go bananas over!
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe bananas
- Honey or maple syrup
- Cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel the bananas and place them on a baking tray.
- Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the bananas.
- Sprinkle cinnamon on top if desired.
- Bake for about 15-20 minutes until the bananas are soft and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
How to Prepare:
Baked bananas can be enjoyed on their own as a healthy snack or served with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of granola for a quick and nutritious breakfast. You can also mash the baked bananas and use them as a substitute for butter or oil in your favorite baked goods recipes.
Preparation Time:
Preparation time for this recipe is approximately 5 minutes, and the baking time is 15-20 minutes.
Servings:
This recipe serves 4.
Nutrition Facts:
Baked bananas are an excellent source of potassium, magnesium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. They are also naturally sweet, making them a healthier alternative to processed sugars.
Tips:
If your bananas are not ripe enough, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag with an apple or a ripe banana. The ethylene gas released by the apple or ripe banana will help the bananas ripen faster.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use unripe bananas for this recipe?
A: Unripe bananas are not suitable for baking as their texture will be too firm. It’s best to use ripe bananas that are slightly soft to the touch.
Q: Can I freeze baked bananas?
A: Yes, you can freeze baked bananas for up to 3 months. Let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before using.
Homemade Banana Pudding Recipe
Looking for a creamy and delicious dessert that your kids will devour? This homemade banana pudding recipe is the answer. Made with ripe bananas, vanilla pudding, and a sprinkling of crushed vanilla wafers, it’s the ultimate comfort food.
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Crushed vanilla wafers for garnish
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
- Remove from heat and stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
- Pour the pudding into individual serving dishes and refrigerate until set, about 2-3 hours.
- Before serving, sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers on top for added crunch.
How to Prepare:
This homemade banana pudding is best served chilled. It can be enjoyed as is or topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Preparation Time:
Preparation time for this recipe is approximately 10 minutes, and the chilling time is 2-3 hours.
Servings:
This recipe serves 4-6, depending on the size of the serving dishes.
Nutrition Facts:
This homemade banana pudding is a good source of potassium, calcium, and vitamin D. It’s also a delightful way to incorporate fruit into your kids’ diet.
Tips:
If you want to add a twist to this classic recipe, try layering the banana pudding with sliced strawberries or blueberries for a burst of fruity flavor.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use instant pudding mix instead of making the pudding from scratch?
A: Yes, you can substitute instant banana pudding mix for the homemade pudding. Simply follow the instructions on the package and add mashed bananas for an extra touch of freshness.
Q: Can I use non-dairy milk for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use almond milk, coconut milk, or any other non-dairy milk as a substitute for regular milk. However, keep in mind that the taste and texture of the pudding may vary slightly.
Easy Peanut Butter Banana Snacks
When it comes to quick and satisfying snacks, it doesn’t get much easier than these peanut butter banana treats. With just three simple ingredients, they are a perfect energy boost for busy kids.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- Sprinkles or chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Peel the bananas and cut them into bite-sized chunks.
- Spread a thin layer of peanut butter on each banana chunk.
- Roll the peanut butter-covered bananas in sprinkles or chopped nuts, if desired.
- Insert a popsicle stick or a toothpick into each banana chunk for easy handling.
- Place the banana snacks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 2 hours.
- Once frozen, transfer the snacks to a freezer bag and store them in the freezer.
How to Prepare:
These easy peanut butter banana snacks can be enjoyed straight from the freezer or thawed for a few minutes for a softer texture. They make a great on-the-go snack or a fun addition to lunchboxes.
Preparation Time:
Preparation time for this recipe is approximately 15 minutes, and the freezing time is at least 2 hours.
Servings:
This recipe makes about 12 peanut butter banana snacks.
Nutrition Facts:
These peanut butter banana snacks are a good source of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins. They provide a balanced and filling snack option for growing kids.
Tips:
If you prefer a nut-free version, you can use sunflower seed butter or other nut-free spreads instead of peanut butter. You can also substitute the sprinkles or chopped nuts with shredded coconut or cocoa powder for added flavor.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanut butter?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to use any nut butter or seed butter of your choice. The taste may vary slightly, but the result will still be delicious.
Q: How long do these snacks keep in the freezer?
A: These peanut butter banana snacks can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just make sure to place them in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Soft Banana Snickerdoodles
If you’re in the mood for freshly baked cookies, why not give these soft banana snickerdoodles a try? Made with overripe bananas and a dash of cinnamon, these cookies are both chewy and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Ingredients:
- 2 overripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup sugar + 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon for rolling
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the mashed bananas and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture and mix until just combined.
- In a small bowl, combine the sugar and ground cinnamon for rolling.
- Shape the cookie dough into small balls and roll them in the sugar-cinnamon mixture.
- Place the cookies on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Prepare:
These soft banana snickerdoodles are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, while the centers are still soft and the sugar-cinnamon coating is slightly crispy. They pair perfectly with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot chocolate.
Preparation Time:
Preparation time for this recipe is approximately 20 minutes, and the baking time is 10-12 minutes.
Servings:
This recipe makes about 2 dozen cookies, depending on the size.
Nutrition Facts:
These soft banana snickerdoodles are a delightful combination of sweetness and spice. They are a good source of carbohydrates for energy and can be enjoyed as a treat or a snack.
Tips:
If you prefer a softer texture, slightly underbake the cookies by reducing the baking time by 1-2 minutes. This will result in a gooey and chewy center. You can also add a handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the cookie dough for added flavor and texture.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: While margarine can be used as a substitute for butter in many recipes, it is best to use butter for these cookies. Butter contributes to the rich and buttery flavor of the snickerdoodles.
Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Shape the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the dough balls for a few hours, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, let the dough balls thaw slightly and roll them in the sugar-cinnamon mixture before baking as directed.
These are just a few of the many amazing banana recipes that you can try with your kids. Whether it’s a healthy breakfast, a tasty snack, or a delightful dessert, bananas are a versatile fruit that can be incorporated into a variety of dishes. So go ahead and get creative in the kitchen with these delicious and nutritious recipes!
