← Use it up

What to do with overripe bananas

Storage times from USDA FoodKeeper data.

Short answer: Ripe bananas keep about 3 days in the fridge (the skin turns black, the fruit is fine) and 2–3 months in the freezer (USDA FoodKeeper). Brown bananas are best for banana bread, smoothies and pancakes.

7 ways to use it up

  1. Banana bread. The browner the banana, the sweeter the loaf.
  2. Smoothies. Frozen banana chunks make smoothies thick and cold.
  3. Pancakes. Mash one into the batter.
  4. Oatmeal. Stir mashed banana into hot oats instead of sugar.
  5. Banana 'nice cream'. Blend frozen banana until it's soft-serve smooth.
  6. Muffins. Freeze extras for 2–3 months.
  7. Freeze them peeled. Peel, slice and freeze for later baking.

How long it keeps

FoodFridge (40°F / 4°C)Freezer (0°F)
Ripe bananas3 days (skin darkens)2–3 months
Banana bread / muffins—2–3 months

Common questions

Can you put bananas in the fridge?

Yes, once ripe. They keep about 3 days; the peel turns black but the fruit inside is fine (USDA FoodKeeper).

How long do frozen bananas last?

2–3 months for best quality.

Related

Storage times: USDA FoodKeeper data. Recipe ideas are general suggestions. General information, not medical advice.