Introduction to Banana Fudge
Is there anything better than the taste of sweet, creamy Banana Fudge? As a busy mom, I know how hectic life can get, making it challenging to whip up delicious treats for my loved ones. This Banana Fudge recipe is my go-to solution for satisfying cravings without taking hours in the kitchen. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also brings smiles to every face at the table. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or sweeten up an everyday evening, this delightful treat is sure to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Banana Fudge
This Banana Fudge recipe is a dream for anyone short on time. It’s made with simple ingredients you probably have at home, making it a quick solution. The creamy texture and sweet banana taste make every bite irresistible. Plus, it comes together in just over an hour with minimal fuss. Whether for a special occasion or an everyday treat, you’ll love how effortlessly it satisfies your sweet cravings!
Ingredients for Banana Fudge
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making delicious Banana Fudge. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Banana flavoring: This is the essence of your fudge. It adds that wonderful, sweet banana taste.
- Yellow food color gel: A few drops will give your fudge that appetizing banana hue. It’s all about the presentation!
- Salted sweet cream butter: This is the base fat that adds creaminess and a rich flavor to the fudge.
- Half and half: A lovely mix of milk and cream that provides a smooth consistency.
- Heavy cream: For an extra touch of decadence, heavy cream elevates the fudge’s creaminess and richness.
- Clear vanilla flavoring: A must for those warm, inviting notes. It enhances the overall flavor.
- Granulated sugar: The sweet foundation of your fudge. It’s what makes it delectably sweet!
- White baking chips: These melt beautifully into the fudge, providing a delightful texture and sweetness.
- Marshmallow fluff: This magical ingredient helps create that luscious, gooey texture that you crave in fudge.
- Crushed Nilla wafers (optional): A fun garnish that adds a little crunch and a nostalgic flavor.
Check the bottom of the article for specific measurements and a printable version of this recipe!
How to Make Banana Fudge
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
To start your Banana Fudge journey, line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Let the paper go up all four sides, creating a little handle for later. Lightly spray the parchment with nonstick cooking spray. This is a crucial step to ensure your fudge slides out easily once it’s set. Trust me, it makes your life a lot easier in the end!
Step 2: Mix Banana Flavoring and Color
In a small glass bowl, combine the banana flavoring with a few drops of yellow food color gel. This step is important for achieving that delightful banana color. The gel will bring your fudge to life, making it as tempting to look at as it is to eat. Mixing these together early sets you up for success, ensuring an even color throughout your fudge.
Step 3: Combine Butter and Creams
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the salted sweet cream butter over medium heat. Once it starts to melt, add the half and half along with the heavy cream. Continuous stirring is key here; this keeps the mixture smooth and prevents burning. The goal is a silky blend that forms a cozy foundation for your fudge, rich with creamy goodness.
Step 4: Add Sugar and Simmer
Once the butter and cream mixture is nice and smooth, it’s time to add granulated sugar. Stir it in well and let the mixture come to a gentle simmer. As you simmer for about three minutes, the sugar dissolves completely, creating that perfect fudgy texture. This is the moment where your kitchen fills up with an irresistible aroma, hinting at the sweet joy to come.
Step 5: Melt the Baking Chips
After the sugar has simmered, remove the saucepan from the heat and add the white baking chips. Cover the saucepan and let it rest for 3-4 minutes. This resting period allows the chips to melt beautifully without a lot of fuss. Stir until completely smooth; this step adds a nice sweetness and gives your fudge that glorious creaminess. The melted chips work their magic here.
Step 6: Incorporate Marshmallow Fluff
Next, it’s time for the marshmallow fluff! Scoop it into the melted mixture, stirring gently until it’s fully combined. This ingredient is a game-changer, contributing to that luscious, gooey texture we all love in fudge. Plus, it adds a subtle sweetness that elevates the overall flavor, turning your mixture into something truly special.
Step 7: Color and Flavor Blending
Don’t forget the fruity goodness! Pour in your banana flavor and color mixture. Stir well until the fudge achieves a uniform, vibrant color. This step ensures every bite bursts with that classic banana taste. It’s all about the details here, as those vibrant colors will make your fudge look as fantastic as it tastes. You’re almost there!
Step 8: Spread and Chill
Using a spatula, spread the fudge mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Make sure it’s nice and level. Once that’s done, sprinkle some crushed Nilla wafers on top for an extra touch. Cover it with aluminum foil and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before refrigerating. This chilling period is essential for allowing the fudge to set up just right.
Step 9: Cut and Serve
Once your fudge has chilled for at least four hours, it’s time to cut it into squares. Lift the fudge out of the dish using the parchment paper. Use a sharp knife to slice it into 25 pieces. Serve them up and watch as everyone can’t resist grabbing one. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh for later snacking!
Tips for Success
- Always measure your ingredients accurately for consistent results. A kitchen scale can be a great help!
- Don’t rush the melting process. Slow and steady makes for a better texture.
- Taste the mixture before it sets. Adjust flavorings if you want a stronger banana taste!
- Let the fudge chill for the full time recommended—patience leads to perfection!
- Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. Warm the knife slightly to make slicing easier!
Equipment Needed
- 9×9-inch baking dish: A standard glass dish works, or use any square pan you have on hand!
- Heavy-bottomed saucepan: A regular saucepan is fine, but one with a thick base helps prevent burning.
- Spatula: A silicone spatula is great for mixing and spreading, but any sturdy spatula will do.
- Parchment paper: If you’re out, aluminum foil can work, but be sure to grease it well.
Variations
- Nutty Banana Fudge: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy twist.
- Dark Chocolate Version: Substitute white baking chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Vegan Option: Use coconut milk and dairy-free butter to create a plant-based version.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Add a swirl of creamy peanut butter for a delightful PB & banana combo.
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh Fruit: Serve with sliced strawberries or bananas for a refreshing contrast.
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or banana ice cream complements the fudge beautifully.
- Hot Beverages: Pair with a warm cup of coffee or chai tea for a cozy treat.
- Presentation: Arrange fudge pieces on a decorative plate, garnished with mint leaves for a pop of color.
FAQs about Banana Fudge
Can I use fresh bananas instead of banana flavoring?
While fresh bananas add flavor, they won’t produce the same creamy texture. Stick to the flavoring for best results.
How should I store leftover Banana Fudge?
You can store any leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps it fresh and delicious!
Can I freeze Banana Fudge?
Yes, Banana Fudge can be frozen! Cut it into pieces, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer-safe container.
How long does Banana Fudge last?
When stored properly, it will last about a week in the fridge, or up to three months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
Creating this Banana Fudge has been a joyous journey for me, one that fills my kitchen with love and delightful aromas. Every bite transports my family back to the warmth of childhood memories, making gatherings even more special. The ease of preparation means I can whip it up on any busy day, turning mundane moments into sweet celebrations. Whether it’s a lunchbox surprise or a festive dessert, this fudge brings smiles all around. I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing it with your loved ones as I do. Happy fudge-making!
Print
Banana Fudge
- Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 25 pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A deliciously sweet and creamy Banana Fudge recipe that satisfies your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons banana flavoring
- ½ teaspoon yellow food color gel
- ¾ cup salted sweet cream butter
- ½ cup half and half
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon clear vanilla flavoring
- 3 cups granulated sugar, plus 2 tablespoons
- 1¾ cups white baking chips
- 7 ounces marshmallow fluff
- 2 tablespoons crushed Nilla wafers, optional garnish
Instructions
- Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, with the paper going up all four sides. Lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
- In a small glass bowl, combine banana flavoring and yellow food color gel. Set aside.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine butter, half and half, heavy cream, and clear vanilla flavoring over medium heat, stirring continuously until the butter melts.
- Add sugar and continue stirring as the mixture comes to a simmer in 6-7 minutes. Simmer for another 3 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Add the white baking chips, cover the saucepan, and let it rest for 3-4 minutes. Stir until melted.
- Incorporate the marshmallow fluff until fully combined.
- Mix in the yellow food gel and banana extract mixture, stirring until uniform in color.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle crushed Nilla wafers on top. Cover with aluminum foil.
- Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Once set, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper and cut into 25 pieces.
Notes
- Ensure that the butter is fully melted before adding other ingredients.
- For a richer flavor, use high-quality white chocolate chips.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
