No more wasting overripe bananas! Learn how to freeze bananas the correct way and extend their use in smoothies, nice creams, baked goods and so much more!
A few months ago I shared some of my favorite ways to use ripe bananas and that post was a huge hit! If you’re anything like me, you usually have some ripe (or overripe – even better!) bananas laying around and are wondering what to do with them.
While I love a good banana muffin, as a food blogger I am oftentimes utilizing my freezer to increase the shelf-life of recipes and ingredients. Bananas are no exception! If a banana is not used in a recipe it WILL be frozen. There are so so many benefits to keeping frozen bananas in the house so I thought I would share some of my best freezing banana tips so you can make the most of your frozen bananas too.
Benefits of Frozen Banana
All of the benefits of fresh bananas still apply when it comes to frozen bananas. Bananas are a fantastic source of potassium, magnesium and even fiber (source). They’re also one of the best ways to add natural sweetness without using an added sweetener.
Bananas can also be great in baked goods to help keep them moist without having to add extra fat. Frozen bananas can almost always be used in place of fresh bananas in a recipe. For baked goods you’ll just want to bring them to room temperature before mixing in.
How to Freeze Whole Bananas [Two Ways]
In Their Peel
Yes! You can freeze frozen bananas in their peels. Doing so is probably the easiest way to freeze bananas on the front end. Simply chuck them into your freezer and leave for 3 months. That being said, when you plan to use them you will still need to peel them. If you’re planning to make something like banana bread or muffins you’ll need to thaw them and then peel them. Usually once thawed the peel can easily be removed. Note that freezer burn can easily occur if not stored in an airtight bag so I would not recommend using this method for longer than 3 months.
Peeled Whole Bananas
Alternatively, if you already know you’ll be using your frozen banana in baked goods you likely will want to peel them first. Simply peel (chop into 2-3 pieces if desired) and place flat in a Ziploc Bag or Stasher Bag for 3-6 months. Remove and thaw before using in baked goods or they can be thrown whole into the blender for smoothies.
How to Freeze Sliced Bananas
You may also choose to freeze your bananas after slicing them. Here’s how to do this.
- Remove peels from bananas
- Slice into coins or small chunks
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for 3-4 hours.
- Remove from parchment paper and place sliced bananas in a Ziploc bag, or other airtight freezer bag.
- Use frozen banana slices within 3-6 months.
Can you Freeze Mashed Bananas?
Yes – you can! This is not my favorite way to freeze bananas but is a great option if you have a baby and want to feed them mashed banana solids.
Simply mash your bananas in a large bowl and then place in an ice cube tray or silicone tray. Freeze for 3-4 hours or until solid.
Remove mashed banana cubes and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Remove and thaw in a bowl. You can feed to baby as is or mix into oatmeal. I do find bananas tend to accumulate excess liquid this way so you’ll want to pour some out.
How Long do Frozen Bananas Last?
This depends on a few factors. Technically if bananas are in their peels they experience less air exposure so they should keep longer, but not if you’re just throwing them into your freezer whole where they may experience freezer burn. Generally your frozen bananas will keep in the freezer for 3-6 months if stored properly. This means in an airtight bag with all air removed. Remember to remove all air before placing bag back in the freezer.
Ways to Use Frozen Banana
Frozen banana can be used in place of fresh banana in many recipes. Check out this list of delicious ripe banana recipes for inspiration.
That being said, frozen bananas are particularly useful in smoothies where they add sweetness and thick texture so that tends to be my go-to. You can also thaw your bananas a bring to room temperature if using in baked goods. Here are some of my favorite frozen banana recipes:
