Banana candy is a delightful way to turn ripe bananas into a rich, artisanal treat. Perfect for family gatherings, gifting, or enjoying with a cup of tea, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the subtle bitterness of cocoa, creating a perfectly balanced flavor. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, you’ll create a candy that’s sure to impress.
In this recipe, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, preparation method, and helpful tips to ensure your banana candy turns out flawless. From blending to cooking and finishing, every step is crafted to make the process enjoyable and rewarding.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 ¼ pounds of ripe bananas (peeled)
Ensure the bananas are fully ripe for optimal sweetness and flavor. - 2 tablespoons of 50% cocoa powder
This adds a depth of flavor, balancing the sweetness. - Juice of 1 lime (Persian or Key lime)
The lime juice enhances the taste and helps preserve the candy. - Water (just enough to help blend in the blender)
Used to achieve the right consistency while blending. - Oil (for greasing the pan and easing cutting)
INSTRUCTIONS
- Prepare the Bananas:
Peel the bananas and slice them into small chunks to make blending easier. - Blend the Ingredients:
In a blender, combine the banana chunks, cocoa powder, lime juice, and a splash of water. Blend until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. Be careful not to add too much water; you want the mixture to be thick but blendable. - Cook the Mixture:
Transfer the banana mixture to a large, non-stick saucepan. Cook over low to medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula. This process is crucial to avoid sticking or burning.- Tip: Use a non-stick pan to prevent the mixture from sticking as it thickens.
Continue cooking until the mixture becomes dark, glossy, and thick enough to hold its shape when stirred. This may take approximately 1 hour. Patience is key during this step.
- Prepare the Pan:
While the mixture is cooking, grease a baking dish or tray with oil. This step ensures that the candy will be easy to remove and cut later. - Set the Candy:
Once the banana mixture has reached the desired consistency, pour it into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth the surface evenly. Allow the mixture to cool completely at room temperature. For best results, let it sit for at least 4-6 hours or overnight. - Cut and Serve:
Once cooled and firm, remove the candy from the pan. Use a sharp knife greased with a little oil to cut the candy into bite-sized squares or rectangles. Arrange them on a serving plate or store in an airtight container.
Serving Suggestions
This banana candy is versatile and can be served as:
- A snack with coffee or tea.
- A homemade gift wrapped in decorative packaging.
- A sweet treat to accompany a dessert spread.
Making banana candy at home is a rewarding experience that transforms simple, ripe bananas into a flavorful and unique confection. With a combination of natural sweetness, a hint of cocoa, and a touch of lime, this recipe creates a delicious treat that’s sure to impress. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also allows you to use ingredients already in your kitchen.
Whether you’re looking to surprise guests, treat your family, or indulge in something sweet, this banana candy recipe is the perfect solution. With its delightful texture and rich taste, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy your homemade creation!