Banana and Rhubarb Recipes for Delicious Homemade Treats

When it comes to unique and refreshing flavor combinations, banana and rhubarb might not be the first duo that springs to mind, but their fusion creates something truly special. The sweetness and creamy texture of ripe bananas beautifully complement the tart, slightly tangy zing of rhubarb, making this duo perfect for everything from breakfast treats to desserts.

Whether you’re looking to brighten up your morning oatmeal, bake a delectable crumble, or whip up a vibrant smoothie, banana and rhubarb recipes add a burst of flavor and nutrition to your culinary repertoire.

In this blog post, we’ll explore a variety of delightful banana and rhubarb recipes that are easy to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends. From a tangy banana-rhubarb compote to a luscious banana and rhubarb bread, these recipes celebrate the best of both ingredients, bringing balance, texture, and an unforgettable taste experience to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something genuinely magical about combining bananas and rhubarb. Bananas provide natural sweetness and creamy moisture, while rhubarb adds a bright, tart counterpoint that prevents any dish from becoming too sweet or heavy.

This balance makes the recipes versatile and satisfying.

These dishes are also packed with nutrients—bananas are rich in potassium and vitamins, while rhubarb offers fiber and antioxidants. Plus, most of these recipes are simple to prepare, requiring minimal fuss but rewarding you with bold flavors and delightful textures.

Lastly, banana and rhubarb recipes are perfect for seasonal cooking. Rhubarb shines in spring and early summer, so these recipes help you celebrate that fresh produce while incorporating the year-round availability of bananas.

Ingredients

• Bananas – ripe, mashed or sliced (about 3 medium-sized)
• Rhubarb – fresh stalks, chopped (about 2 cups)
• Sugar – granulated or brown (1/2 to 3/4 cup, adjustable)
• Flour – all-purpose or gluten-free (1 1/2 cups)
• Baking soda (1 teaspoon)
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
• Cinnamon (1 teaspoon)
• Butter or vegan butter (1/3 cup, melted)
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
• Lemon juice (1 tablespoon, to balance rhubarb tartness)
• Oats – for topping or crumble (optional, 1/2 cup)
• Nuts (optional, chopped walnuts or pecans, 1/3 cup)
• Plant-based milk (optional, 1/4 cup for moistening batter)

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or fork
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Baking pan (9×5 inch loaf pan or 8×8 inch square pan)
• Oven
• Knife and cutting board
• Optional: food processor or blender (for smoothies or compotes)

Instructions

1. Prepare the rhubarb: Wash and chop the rhubarb into 1/2 inch pieces. Toss with lemon juice and 1/4 cup of sugar in a bowl. Set aside to macerate for 15 minutes, allowing the rhubarb to soften and release juices.
2. Preheat your oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
3. Mash the bananas: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Add melted butter, vanilla extract, and plant-based milk if using, mixing well to combine.
4. Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
5. Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry mixture to the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your bread tender.
6. Fold in rhubarb: Drain excess liquid from the rhubarb if needed, then fold the rhubarb pieces into the batter carefully. If you like, add chopped nuts for extra texture.
7. Transfer to baking pan: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Add topping (optional): Sprinkle oats and a little brown sugar on top for a crunchy finish.
9. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips & Variations

“To keep your banana and rhubarb bread moist, don’t overmix the batter and be sure to use ripe bananas – the riper, the better!”

You can easily turn this recipe into a delightful crumble by using the rhubarb and banana mixture as a filling, then topping it with oats, nuts, and a bit of brown sugar before baking.

For a vegan version, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine, and use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.

Want to add a little spice? Try incorporating ground ginger or nutmeg along with cinnamon for a warm flavor twist.

Looking for something refreshing? Blend banana, rhubarb, a splash of orange juice, and ice for a tangy smoothie packed with antioxidants.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This banana and rhubarb bread or crumble pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee for breakfast or an afternoon snack. For an indulgent treat, serve warm slices topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped coconut cream.

Try spreading some nut butter on a slice to add protein and richness, or enjoy it plain to savor the pure flavors of banana and rhubarb. Leftovers can be toasted lightly for a crispy exterior and soft interior.

For more recipes that bring out the best in plant-based ingredients, check out our Banoffee Recipe Vegan: Easy, Delicious, and Dairy-Free Treat or explore Berry Cobbler Recipe Vegan: Easy, Delicious, and Healthy for another fruity delight.

Conclusion

Banana and rhubarb recipes offer a harmonious blend of sweet and tart flavors that will brighten up your kitchen and delight your taste buds. Whether you’re baking a moist banana-rhubarb bread, crafting a tangy compote, or blending a refreshing smoothie, these recipes provide simple yet delicious ways to enjoy two fantastic fruits together.

With their complementary textures and flavors, plus the added nutritional benefits, banana and rhubarb dishes are a wonderful addition to any meal plan, especially during rhubarb season. Don’t hesitate to experiment with these ingredients and make them your own.

For more creative and wholesome plant-based recipes, be sure to explore other gems like Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping or try the Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious.

Happy cooking and enjoy the delightful taste journey that banana and rhubarb bring to your table!

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