How to Freeze Bananas

Here’s a step-by-step tutorial on how to freeze bananas to easily add them to smoothies, muffins, breads, oatmeal, and so much more!

Reasons to Freeze Bananas

You all! Let me tell you. It is considered a real emergency here if we run out of bananas. my kid believes no breakfast is complete without them.

And so to avoid having to make multiple trips to the grocery store each week, I grab at least two bunches at a time, one that’s ripe and one that’s still green.

On top of that, my kid is also very particular when it comes to fresh bananas. He has to be perfectly yellow with minimal brown spots. Not to mention, they also have a lot of opinions on how they should be sliced (or not).

Please tell me I’m not alone!!

All this to say I always end up with a bunch of rejected, ripe, brown bananas. Sure, I could make some banana bread, muffins, etc., but the truth is I’m exhausted most of the time and I just want to retreat from the kitchen.

So what’s the solution? Freeze the bananas before they pass the point of no return. That way, they will be there for you WHEN you need them!

How to Freeze Bananas

Super important! You want to start with ripe bananas so they will add the right amount of sweetness to whatever you are adding them to. They won’t ripen further once frozen.

First, peel your bananas as it will be much harder to do so once frozen. Not only that, the bananas will turn brown if frozen with the peel on.

Next, slice or mash, depending on how you want to use them in the future.

Whole or halved

I like to slice the bananas in half rather than keeping them whole because this makes them easier to use for recipes that call for 1/2 of a banana and easier to blend if you don’t have a high-powered blender.

1. Place bananas in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Freeze for at least 2 hours.

2. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Sliced

This is a great option for adding to smoothies, oatmeal, banana milk, milkshakes, or frozen yogurt. You can easily pull out however much you need whenever you need it.

Sliced bananas also thaw more quickly than whole or halved.

1. Slice into 1/2-3/4 inch rounds, and arrange into a single layer on a parchment-lined tray (otherwise, it will be much harder to remove the bananas once frozen). Freeze for at least 2 hours.

2. Transfer the frozen slices to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.

Mashed

While you can thaw frozen banana slices and mash, this is a good option if you want to save time later or have a leftover mashed banana.

This will also allow you to grab exactly how much you need for any baked goods recipe.

Here’s what you do:

1. Mash and measure the desired amount, I like to freeze in 1/4 or 1/2 cup portions. Transfer mashed bananas to freezer trays, close the lid, and freeze overnight.

2. Once frozen solid, remove from the tray and transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Storage Containers

You can use freezer-safe bags (plastic or reusable bags) or airtight containers.

If using the freezer bags, be sure to squeeze out as much excess air as possible before sealing. This will help keep the bananas from turning brown and getting freezer-burned. And don’t forget to label it with the date.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to thaw frozen bananas?

If using the bananas in baked goods, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for 1-2 hours, depending on the size of your banana pieces.

As they thaw, the bananas will release brown liquid. Go ahead and strain this excess liquid.

How long can I store frozen bananas?

While you can freeze it for up to 6 months, I recommend using it within 3 months for the best flavor, texture, and color. Note that the bananas will still turn brown in the freezer, although at a much slower rate.

Do I have to freeze the bananas on the baking sheet first?

If you prefer, you can transfer the banana pieces to a freezer-safe bag and spread them out flat in a single layer. Remove as much extra air as possible before sealing. Place them flat in the freezer and freeze for at least 3 hours.

However, if you are freezing a large amount, it would be easier to use the flash freeze method as shown here. It will also save you from having to use multiple freezer bags.