Making your own banana candy at home can be a fun, healthy, and natural alternative to store-bought treats that often contain artificial sugars and preservatives. This natural banana candy recipe uses only ripe bananas and simple ingredients, making it a great snack for kids and adults alike. The sweetness of the bananas combined with a bit of honey and a few optional spices creates a deliciously chewy and satisfying candy.
Ingredients for Natural Banana Candy
- 4 ripe bananas (the riper, the sweeter)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for a hint of spice)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for flavor)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional, to enhance the sweetness)
Equipment Needed:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Food processor or blender (optional, for smoother consistency)
- Knife and cutting board
Steps to Make Natural Banana Candy
Step 1: Prepare the Bananas
- Peel the ripe bananas and cut them into small slices (about 1/4-inch thick).
- You can also mash the bananas if you prefer a smoother consistency for the candy. Simply place the banana slices or pieces into a food processor or blender and puree until smooth.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- If you’re using sliced bananas, transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the honey, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt to the bananas (if you’re using them). Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). The low temperature will allow the bananas to dehydrate without burning, which helps retain their natural sweetness.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Sheet
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the banana slices from sticking to the pan while they bake.
Step 5: Place the Bananas on the Baking Sheet
- If you’re using mashed bananas, you can spread the mixture onto the baking sheet in an even layer, about 1/4-inch thick.
- For banana slices, arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet. Make sure the slices aren’t touching each other so they can dehydrate evenly.
Step 6: Dehydrate the Bananas
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 2-3 hours, checking every 30 minutes to ensure the bananas are drying evenly.
- The bananas will become chewy and slightly crisp on the edges. If you want a more chewy candy, take them out when they are still a bit soft. For a firmer texture, leave them in longer.
- Note: If you’re using a dehydrator, set it to 135°F (57°C) and dry the bananas for about 8-10 hours, or until they reach the desired consistency.
Step 7: Cool and Store
- Once the bananas have dried to your preferred texture, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely.
- Store the banana candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 weeks.
Optional Variations
- Coconut Flakes: Before baking, sprinkle shredded coconut over the banana slices for a tropical twist.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Once the banana candy has cooled, drizzle with melted dark chocolate for an extra layer of flavor.
- Nuts: Add crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts for a crunchy contrast to the soft banana candy.
- Spices: Experiment with other spices such as nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom for a unique flavor profile.
Benefits of Homemade Banana Candy
- Natural Sweetness: Bananas are naturally sweet, so this candy doesn’t require any refined sugar.
- Nutrient-Rich: Bananas are rich in potassium, vitamins, and fiber, making this a more nutritious treat compared to traditional candy.
- No Preservatives: Unlike many store-bought candies, this natural banana candy contains no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
- Vegan-Friendly: This candy is completely plant-based, making it suitable for vegan diets if you choose not to add honey or use maple syrup as a sweetener.
Conclusion
Making natural banana candy is an easy and delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth while avoiding processed sugars and artificial ingredients. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack, adding it to granola, or giving it to your kids as a healthy treat, this homemade candy is sure to become a favorite!
