Have a bunch of ripe bananas laying around? Try freezing them! Learn how to freeze bananas with these simple tips and tricks. Perfect for smoothies, baking and more.
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Don’t Throw out Those Bananas!
We’ve all been there. You bought a bunch of bananas at the store and before you know it, they’re overripe. But instead of tossing them out, freeze them instead! Frozen bananas are great for baking and making all types of smoothies, like my peanut butter banana smoothie or pineapple smoothie. They help make the texture so creamy and delicious!
Whenever I go to the store, I always make sure to grab an extra bunch of bananas to freeze. My family loves them and I always want to make sure we have some on hand.
I love keeping them in my freezer for strawberry banana smoothies, green smoothies and banana bread. Adding frozen bananas to smoothies is my favorite way to use them because they create a thick and creamy smoothie. They always make a great addition to overnight oats as well.
Best Way to Freeze Bananas
- Peel and slice the banana into 1/2″ pieces.
- Place the slices onto a baking sheet (small enough to fit into your freezer).
- Flash freeze for 2 hours and then move to a freezer container or zip top bag.
TIP: If using a freezer bag, make sure to seal it well to prevent freezer burn and browning. I like to suck out the air in the bag with a straw to help seal them tightly.
Can you Freeze Bananas in the Peel?
Yes, you can freeze a banana in the peel. I prefer to peel them and then place into a bag because it is harder to get the peel off after freezing, but it is doable. If you freeze them in the peel, you’ll need to let them thaw before using so that you’re able to easily remove it.
Once you’re ready to use it, you can take it out of the freezer and let it thaw. Then mash and use in my favorite banana bread recipe.
How to Freeze Banana Mush
One of my favorite ways to freeze bananas for our favorite chocolate chip banana bread is to mash 1 cup of bananas and then place it into a zip top bag. Label the bag “1 cup mashed bananas” and then zip removing all the air. When ready to use, simply allow to thaw or run under warm water.
How Long do Bananas last in the Freezer
The great thing about freezing bananas is that they’ll keep in the freezer for up to 6 months. I always have a stash in the freezer for smoothies or baking. Just make sure to label your container or bag, so that you know when to use them up by. I like to write on the bag with a sharpie or use one of these free freezer labels and they work perfect!
How to Thaw
If you’re using frozen bananas to bake, then you’ll need to let them thaw first. Below are a few different ways to do that:
- Place frozen bananas in a bowl and let thaw in fridge overnight or let them sit on the counter for a couple hours.
- Submerge the bag in a bowl of cold water and allow to sit for about 30 minutes.
More Ways to Use Frozen Bananas
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How to Freeze Bananas
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Knife
- Freezer container or bag
Ingredients
- 1 Banana
Instructions
- Peel the banana, then slice into 1/2″ pieces. Place banana slices onto a baking sheet (small enough to fit into your freezer).
- Flash freeze for 2 hours, or until hard. Move to a freezer container or zip top bag.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition provided is an estimate. It will vary based on specific ingredients used.
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I have always thrown my browning bananas in the freezer, peel and all, and then the peels get super soggy when I try to thaw and use them. This is a much better way to do them!
Frozen bananas are so handy to have on hand. They are perfect for smoothies!
We just love this idea of freezing bananas! Such an easy way to have bananas on hand!