Natural banana candy is a simple, wholesome treat made with ripe bananas and natural sweeteners, giving it a rich caramelized flavor and chewy texture. Unlike processed candies, this homemade version contains no artificial ingredients—just pure fruit goodness with a touch of spice or citrus to enhance the flavor. Whether you enjoy it as a guilt-free snack, a topping for desserts, or an addition to trail mix, this banana candy is a delicious way to preserve the fruit’s natural sweetness.
Ingredients:
Base Ingredients:
- 4 ripe bananas (firm but sweet)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Flavor Enhancements (Optional):
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for extra sweetness)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg (for a warm spice touch)
- ½ teaspoon sea salt (to balance sweetness)
For Coating (Optional):
- ¼ cup melted dark chocolate
- ¼ cup crushed nuts or coconut flakes
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Bananas
- Peel the bananas and slice them into thin rounds (about ¼-inch thick) or into long strips for a more chewy texture.
- Toss the slices with lemon juice and vanilla extract to maintain color and enhance flavor.
Step 2: Dehydration Process
- Using an Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange banana slices in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap.
- Bake for 2-3 hours, flipping halfway through, until the bananas shrink and become chewy.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool—they will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Using a Food Dehydrator:
- Place banana slices onto dehydrator trays, spacing them apart evenly.
- Set the dehydrator to 130-135°F (55-57°C) and let dry for 6-8 hours, checking occasionally for the desired texture.
- Sun-Drying Method (Traditional Approach):
- Place banana slices on a clean wire rack under direct sunlight.
- Cover with a mesh screen to protect from insects and let them sun-dry for 1-2 days, flipping occasionally.
- Once dry and chewy, transfer them to an airtight container.
Step 3: Add Finishing Touches
- If desired, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the banana pieces and sprinkle crushed nuts or coconut flakes for extra flavor.
- Allow chocolate to set before storing or serving.
Step 4: Store & Enjoy
- Store banana candy in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Enjoy as a snack, dessert topping, or mix into granola!
Tips for the Best Natural Banana Candy:
- Use ripe bananas but avoid overripe ones, as they may become too mushy.
- For a crispier texture, bake at a slightly higher temperature (225°F) for a shorter time.
- Pair with peanut butter or yogurt for a delightful snack.
- Experiment with different flavors, like adding citrus zest or cocoa powder!
This natural banana candy is a delightful treat with no preservatives—just pure, chewy sweetness. Would you add any special flavors or coatings to make it even more exciting? 🍌✨