It surprised me that, among the other predictable essential items that Kiwis stocked up on when lockdown hit all those weeks ago, the humble banana was high on the shopping list.
I get it, you grab the toilet paper, a loaf of bread and then, driven by the need to add something healthy to the mix you grab a bunch of bananas. Maybe they all got eaten, but perhaps, like in my house, they got forgotten and overripe. There is only one thing to do with a handful of overripe bananas – bake banana bread, right? Nope. That was last lockdown. This time around let's go further and see what we can really do with a few of those mushy, potassium-packed fruits on hand.
Banana choc chip muffins
This muffin recipe is a classic. It is simple, foolproof and a great way to use up those bananas. They will also be a hit with the kids as they have chocolate in them. I often find that patty cases stick to the muffins so I prefer to place batter straight into muffin trays, but make sure you grease them really well with butter or oil first.
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Mini deconstructed banoffee
I love the word 'deconstructed' when it is used in recipes as it usually means that I don't have to follow the rules or stress about making my creation look too perfect. This deconstructed banoffee is no exception. This is an easy dessert or would even double as a slightly indulgent afternoon treat.
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Banana cake with caramel walnuts
Growing up a moist banana cake was the pinnacle of indulgence and sophistication. My baking ambitious are slightly loftier all these years later but the smell of a banana cake baking still brings me pure joy. This recipe is a standout for me as it has instructions for a great cream cheese icing, not to mention the caramelised walnuts, which work atop a great many things and are a great trick to have up your sleeve.
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No-bake banana fridge flapjacks
No oven required for this one, got to love that. These energy-packed bars and a breeze to make and can be kept in the fridge for when the afternoon slump hits at home.
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Dairy-free banana berry smoothie
Another banana treat that requires no baking. Smoothies often save the day in our house when the kids refuse to eat anything but I can see the hangry rising in them. If you have frozen berries in the freezer they are a great to mix with those bananas, giving you that wonderful meal/drink that is the smoothie.
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Chocolicious banana cake
Again the dream pairing of chocolate and banana made an appearance. This cake is more chocolate-fueled that banana based, but the addition of the ripe banana make this cake very moist and moreish.
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