If you’re looking for a healthy, all-natural, and delicious snack that satisfies your sweet tooth without any guilt, then this natural banana candy recipe is perfect for you. With just four simple ingredients, you can create chewy, fruity, and flavorful banana candies that are free of preservatives, added sugars, or artificial flavors.
This recipe makes use of the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and enhances the taste with a touch of honey, lemon juice, and cinnamon. It’s an ideal snack for kids and adults alike, and it’s incredibly easy to prepare at home. Whether you want a healthy alternative to store-bought candy or a tasty energy bite, this banana candy will become your go-to favorite. Let’s explore how to make this simple, nutritious treat in just a few steps.
Ingredients
– 4 large ripe bananas (the riper, the sweeter)
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional but adds a rich sweetness)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent browning and enhance flavor)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (adds a warm, spiced touch)
Instructions
- Choose ripe bananas: Select bananas that are fully ripened with brown spots on the skin. The more ripe they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your banana candy will be.
- Peel and slice: Peel the bananas and cut them into thin, even slices about 1/4 inch thick. Uniform slices ensure that they dehydrate at the same rate.
- Prepare the coating: In a small bowl, mix the lemon juice, honey, and cinnamon. Stir until well combined to create a syrupy coating that will enhance the flavor of the banana slices.
- Coat the banana slices: Gently toss the banana slices in the mixture until they are evenly coated. This step helps preserve the natural color and adds a subtle tangy sweetness with a warm spice.
- Arrange for drying: Lay the coated banana slices on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Make sure they are spaced out and not touching each other to ensure even drying.
- Dehydrate the bananas:
– In the oven: Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C). Place the tray in the oven and let the banana slices bake slowly for 2 to 3 hours. Flip the slices halfway through to ensure both sides dry evenly.
– Using a dehydrator: If you have a food dehydrator, place the slices on the tray and dry them at 135°F (57°C) for 6 to 8 hours, or until they reach a chewy texture. - Check texture: The banana slices should be slightly chewy and not overly hard. If they’re too soft, let them dry a bit longer. Remember that they will firm up slightly once cooled.
- Cool and store: Once the banana candies are fully dried, remove them from the tray and let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Enjoy: These natural banana candies are perfect as a healthy snack, lunchbox treat, post-workout energy bite, or even a topping for yogurt and oatmeal. They offer a naturally sweet, chewy texture that satisfies cravings without any artificial ingredients.