A quick look at the fruit basket might reveal bananas that have become too soft for eating as they are. Instead of letting them go to waste, turn them into tasty creations.

As they soften, their natural sweetness intensifies, making them perfect for various recipes. Here are ten great ways to make the most of them.

<h3>Sweet Caramelized Bananas</h3>

<b>Ingredients (serves 2):</b>

- 2 ripe bananas

- 1 tbsp butter

- 2 tbsp brown sugar

<b>Instructions:</b>

Slice bananas into rounds or lengthwise halves. Melt butter in a pan over medium heat, add sugar, and stir until dissolved. Add banana slices and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden. Serve over yogurt, oatmeal, or desserts.

<h3>Grilled Banana Delights</h3>

<b>Ingredients (serves 2):</b>

- 2 ripe bananas

- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

- 1 tsp powdered sugar (optional)

<b>Instructions:</b>

Peel and slice bananas into thick rounds or leave whole. Grill on medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side until grill marks appear. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup and sprinkle with powdered sugar.

<h3>Oven-Baked Banana Treats</h3>

<b>Ingredients (serves 2):</b>

- 2 ripe bananas

- 2 tbsp chocolate chips

- 2 tbsp mini marshmallows

<b>Instructions:</b>

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Slice bananas lengthwise with the peel intact. Fill the center with chocolate chips and marshmallows. Wrap in foil and bake for 10 minutes. Unwrap and enjoy warm.

<h3>Classic Banana Bread</h3>

<b>Ingredients (1 loaf):</b>

- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)

- 75 g melted butter

- 150 g sugar

- 1 egg (beaten)

- 1 tsp vanilla extract

- 1 tsp baking soda

- Pinch of salt

- 190 g all-purpose flour

<b>Instructions:</b>

Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Mix mashed bananas with butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla. Add baking soda, salt, and flour. Stir until just combined. Pour into a greased loaf pan and bake for 50–60 minutes.

<h3>Two-Ingredient Pancakes</h3>

<b>Ingredients (serves 2):</b>

- 2 ripe bananas

- 2 eggs

<b>Instructions:</b>

Mash bananas in a bowl. Whisk in eggs until smooth. Heat a non-stick pan and cook small pancakes for 1–2 minutes per side. Flip when bubbles appear. Serve warm.

Instead of discarding ripe bananas, try turning them into something delicious. From baked goods to refreshing drinks, there are many ways to enjoy their natural sweetness. Experiment with these ideas and discover new favorite treats!