Have you ever wondered if there was a simple way to quickly ripen bananas? Sometimes you find yourself needing a ripe banana for a recipe but all you have are ones that aren’t quite ready on your counter. We’ve all been there. But we have a secret we want to share…

Did you know your oven can be your secret weapon in the quest for perfectly ripened bananas in a flash? Forget waiting days – we’re talking about a simple trick that can transform unripe bananas into soft, sweet delights in no time. 

Intrigued? Let’s dive into this surprisingly easy method and get you enjoying that banana bread, smoothie, or just a delicious snack sooner than you think!

Related: How To Select, Store and Serve Bananas

What You Need to Quickly Ripen Bananas

• Bananas – you will want to avoid using completely green bananas
• Parchment paper – you can also use aluminum foil
• Sheet pan

Guide: How to Quickly Ripen Bananas

First, preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper (you can also use aluminum foil). Lay the unpeeled bananas in a single layer on the sheet pan.

Next, bake for 15-20 minutes.

Once the bananas are brown, remove them from the oven and let them cool. Using a knife, slit down the middle of the banana skin to open it up and let it cool faster.

Scoop out the ripened bananas into a bowl.

Using a fork, mash the bananas. You can use it right away or store it in an airtight container. You can store in the fridge for 2-3 days or store in the freezer for up to 3 months. 

Ways to Enjoy Ripened Bananas

What’s the best part of bananas? Enjoying them. Below are some ways to use your bananas:

Breakfast Ideas

Blend them into smoothies: Ripe bananas lend a wonderful sweetness and creaminess to smoothies. They blend easily and pair well with all sorts of fruits, vegetables, yogurt, and milk. Plus, they can help create a thicker, more satisfying consistency.

Top your breakfast: Slice ripe bananas and add them to your oatmeal, yogurt, or cereal for a boost of sweetness, potassium, and fiber. They add a lovely soft texture that complements many breakfast staples.

Spread them on toast: Mash a ripe banana on a piece of toast for a naturally sweet and nutritious spread. You can sprinkle with cinnamon, a drizzle of honey, or some nut butter for extra flavor and protein.

Sweet Treats & Snacks

Bake delicious treats: This is where ripe bananas truly shine! Their natural sugars and moisture make them ideal for baking. Think classic banana bread, muffins, pancakes, or even adding them to cakes and cookies for extra flavor and a moist crumb.

Make “nice” cream: For a healthy and refreshing dessert, blend frozen ripe banana chunks in a food processor until smooth and creamy. The result is a naturally sweet, dairy-free “ice cream” that you can enjoy plain or with toppings like berries, chocolate chips, or nuts.

Add them to desserts: Sliced or mashed ripe bananas can be a fantastic addition to other desserts. Think layering them in trifles, topping ice cream, or serving them alongside warm cobblers or crisps. The warmth enhances their sweetness and soft texture.

Make banana “boats”: For a fun and easy treat, split a ripe banana lengthwise (leaving the peel on), sprinkle with chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and chopped nuts, then bake or broil briefly until melty and warm. It’s like a mini banana sundae!

Enjoy experimenting with these ideas and discovering your own favorite ways to devour those perfectly ripened bananas!

Need more ideas? Check out our Pinterest page and Instagram feed.