Freezing bananas extends their shelf-life. See how to freeze bananas for smoothies and recipes with this step-by-step tutorial, plus how long frozen bananas last.
Freezing Bananas
Freezing bananas is an easy way to keep them for longer. It’s a great way to have them ready to make smoothies at any time.
Frozen bananas are one of the most popular ingredients in smoothies since they have a mild, sweet flavor. The texture also gives smoothies a thick and creamy consistency.
Compared to fresh bananas, frozen ones are just as healthy. The process of freezing prevents the nutrients from breaking down.
RELATED: 12 Benefits of Eating Bananas
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Remove the peels from the bananas.
Step 2: Cut the bananas into 6 equal-sized pieces.
Step 3: Place the bananas on the baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat in a single layer.
Step 4: Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer.
Step 5: Put the frozen banana pieces in a freezer-safe bag. Store in the freezer.
Photo Credit: amazon.com
Expert Tips
1 Banana = 6 pieces
Each banana was cut into 6 even pieces so that when a recipe calls for 1 banana, you know to use 6 banana pieces.
Use ripe bananas.
For the best flavor and texture, it’s important to use ripe bananas.
You can tell a banana is ripe if the peel is yellow with some brown spots.
Don’t freeze bananas if they’re mostly green. This means they’re unripe and too bitter.
Cut smaller pieces for low-powered blenders.
If your blender isn’t very strong, you can slice the bananas into coins.
The coins should be about 3/4- or 1-inch thick.
Be sure to keep track of how many coins you cut per banana. This will make it easier to follow recipes.
Use a plate to freeze the bananas.
If your baking sheets are too big for the freezer, use a plate instead.
Line the plate with parchment paper as usual, then place the bananas on top.
Only use plates that are freezer-safe. Don’t use plastic ones, which can crack in the freezer.
Questions You May Have
You can, but it’s not a good idea for smoothies. Blending a whole frozen banana can damage your blender, so it’s important to cut it first.
Frozen fruits such as banana will last 8-12 months in the freezer. Always seal the bag tightly to avoid freezer burn.
No, frozen bananas can be added directly into a blender. The blades will puree the bananas, giving the smoothie a smooth and cold texture.
Related
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How to Freeze Bananas Properly
INGREDIENTS
- Bananas
INSTRUCTIONS
- Prepare baking sheet.Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper.
- Remove the peels from the bananas.
- Cut the bananas into 6 equal-sized pieces.
- Put the bananas in the freezer for 1-2 hours.Place the bananas on the baking sheet in a single layer. Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer. Freeze for 1 to 2 hours, or until the bananas are frozen.
- Place frozen bananas into a freezer-safe bag and store in the freezer.Remove the extra air and press the seal to close. Use frozen bananas within 8-12 months.
NOTES
- Only freeze ripe bananas. Signs of ripeness include a yellow peel with some brown spots.
- For low-powered blenders, cut the bananas into smaller coins.
- If your baking sheets are too big for the freezer, use a freezer-safe plate instead.
- When using frozen bananas in smoothies, remember that six pieces equal one banana.