Banana Milk

As a fun and easy way to change up regular milk, I sometimes make yummy Banana Milk for the kids. It’s so easy, has potassium and fiber, and tastes so good—even with just a small amount of sweetener. It’s a healthy toddler drink that you can make at home to serve with breakfast, as a stand alone snack, or as a simple bedtime snack. This version is made with fresh banana, rather than artificial flavors like you might see in some store bought banana milks. Which means that it really just tastes like a creamy very ripe banana drink. Learn more about toddlers and milk in that post for more comprehensive information about milk needs. It will answer any questions you may have about how much milk kids need each day—and what to keep an eye on if you have a kiddo who’s not into milk. And you can find all of my Flavored Milks for more fun options. (You may also like Strawberry Milk, Banana Smoothie with Milk, Banana Yogurt Smoothie, Banana Ice Cream, and Yogurt Drinks.)

Ingredients You Need

To make this banana milk, you’ll need the following ingredients on hand. Sign up for our email updates to get tips and ideas sent to your inbox.

Milk: I use whole milk, but any variety will work. You can also use nondairy milk if needed. A medium ripe banana: The riper, the better here as it will be more flavorful. Look for brown bananas, or a bright yellow banana with some brown spots. Maple syrup: Depending on the sweetness of the banana, you can add a little additional sweetener. I usually use maple syrup, but honey also works for kids older than 1 year of age if that’s what you have on hand. Vanilla extract: This adds a little flavor to the milk that’s really nice in the mix with the other ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

I’m giving you a little look at the step-by-step instructions to make banana milk, but be sure to scroll down to the bottom of the page for the full, complete recipe.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, you can definitely make this banana milk dairy-free. Simply sub your favorite nondairy milk—whether oat milk, almond milk, soy milk, or another type—and enjoy. If using anything but plain and unsweetened milk, leave the sweetener and vanilla out as it will likely be sweet enough. You can taste and adjust it as needed.

How to Store

You can make this flavored milk up to 24 hours ahead and store it in the fridge in an airtight container. I would recommend stirring in a few drops of fresh lemon juice to help reduce any browning (as bananas naturally brown when exposed to air).

Best Tips for Success

To store, stir in ½ teaspoon (or a few drops) of fresh lemon juice to help reduce browning and store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Dairy-Free: Use your favorite nondairy milk. Omit the sweetener and vanilla if using another other than plain unsweetened. Added-Sugar-Free: Make this without added sugars by just using the milk and banana. (It will taste best with a very ripe banana!) Feel free to add a dash of cinnamon for more flavor. Do half milk and half yogurt to make drinkable banana yogurt. Add ice to make it more of a Banana Smoothie consistency. You may also like Strawberry Milk, Vanilla Milk, and Easy Chocolate Milk.

I’d love to hear what your kids think if you try this recipe so please comment below to share!

Favorite Yogurt Drinks

Favorite Toddler Smoothie (with Veggies!)

Healthy Hot Chocolate (3-Minutes)

Strawberry Juice (So Fresh!)

This post was first published August 2020.

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