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If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing the rich, creamy delight of bananas in a sweet treat, then this Banana Fudge Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Overflowing with luscious banana flavor and that classic fudge creaminess, this dessert brings a wonderfully nostalgic twist to your usual sweets. The unique blend of smooth white chips, marshmallow fluff, and buttery goodness, all tinged with a sunny yellow hue, makes this fudge as visually stunning as it is irresistibly delicious. Perfect for sharing with friends or savoring solo, this Banana Fudge Recipe transforms simple ingredients into a magical, melt-in-your-mouth experience you won’t forget.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is the first step to creating your perfect Banana Fudge Recipe. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—whether it’s adding rich creaminess, sweetness, or that unmistakable banana essence.
- Banana flavoring: Provides that unmistakable, vibrant banana taste that defines this fudge.
- Yellow food color gel: Gives the fudge its cheerful color, making it as eye-catching as it is delicious.
- Salted sweet cream butter: Adds a creamy, rich base and a subtle touch of saltiness for balance.
- Half and half: Contributes to the fudge’s smooth texture without overpowering the flavor.
- Heavy cream: Creates extra creaminess and a luscious consistency.
- Clear vanilla flavoring: Enhances the overall depth of flavor with its subtle warmth.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps achieve the ideal fudge texture after cooking.
- White baking chips: Melt into the mixture, adding a velvety sweetness and creating the fudge’s classic body.
- Marshmallow fluff: Brings lightness and a smooth, chewy texture to the fudge.
- Crushed Nilla wafers (optional garnish): Adds a delightful crunch and a hint of vanilla flavor on top.
How to Make Banana Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Banana Mixture
Start by lining a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure it extends up all sides for easy removal. Lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Next, mix the banana flavoring with the yellow food color gel in a small bowl; this ensures the flavor and color are evenly distributed when added later.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Combine Creams
In a heavy-bottom saucepan, combine the salted sweet cream butter, half and half, heavy cream, and clear vanilla flavoring. Over medium heat, stir continuously until everything has melted into a harmonious, smooth blend. This step lays the luxurious creamy foundation for your Banana Fudge Recipe.
Step 3: Add Sugar and Simmer
Stir in the granulated sugar, keeping the mixture moving constantly as it heats. Bring it to a gentle simmer, simmering for about 6 to 7 minutes to allow the sugar to dissolve fully and thicken. Continue simmering for an additional 3 minutes — this precise timing is key to achieving the perfect fudge texture.
Step 4: Incorporate White Baking Chips and Marshmallow Fluff
Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately add the white baking chips. Cover the pan and let it sit for 3 to 4 minutes so the chips melt gently. Then stir in the marshmallow fluff until the mixture is creamy and smooth, which adds an irresistible lightness to your fudge.
Step 5: Add Banana Flavor and Color
Next, stir in your pre-mixed banana flavor and yellow food color gel. Keep stirring until the fudge is uniformly colored and bursting with that lovely banana scent. This step really brings the essence of the Banana Fudge Recipe to life.
Step 6: Set and Chill the Fudge
Pour the fudge into your prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. If you want that extra special touch, sprinkle crushed Nilla wafers on top before covering with aluminum foil. Let the fudge rest at room temperature for 30 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least four hours until fully set.
Step 7: Cut and Enjoy
Once the fudge has completely chilled and solidified, gently lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper edges. Cut the fudge into 25 decadent pieces and keep refrigerated until you’re ready to serve this delightful Banana Fudge Recipe to your eager guests.
How to Serve Banana Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
While the crushed Nilla wafers add a lovely crunch, you can take things a step further by dusting the fudge lightly with powdered sugar or adding a few banana chips on top for a chic presentation. A drizzle of white chocolate or a sprinkle of toasted coconut also pairs beautifully with the banana flavor, elevating each bite.
Side Dishes
Banana fudge is a sweet treat all on its own but try pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance the richness. A fresh fruit salad, especially with strawberries or pineapple, complements the banana notes perfectly and adds a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve your Banana Fudge Recipe on a decorative platter lined with banana leaves or edible flowers. You could also cut the fudge into bite-sized squares and place them on colorful mini cupcake liners to make sharing effortless and fun. Gift-wrapping small boxes of these treats is a charming way to spread the joy!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Banana fudge keeps beautifully when stored properly. Place leftover pieces in an airtight container and refrigerate. This keeps the fudge fresh and maintains that creamy texture for up to one week, so you can savor every bite later.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap individual fudge pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen banana fudge maintains its flavor and texture for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying to experience that melt-in-your-mouth quality perfectly.
Reheating
Since fudge is best served chilled or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended. Instead, simply let frozen fudge thaw naturally in the fridge to preserve the smooth, creamy texture that makes this Banana Fudge Recipe so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I substitute fresh bananas for the banana flavoring?
Fresh bananas are delicious but will add moisture that can affect the fudge’s texture, making it less firm. Banana flavoring provides consistent taste without altering the fudge’s perfect creaminess.
Is it necessary to use yellow food color gel?
The yellow color gel is optional but highly recommended if you want that classic banana fudge appearance. It gives a lovely bright hue that matches the flavor and makes the fudge visually appealing.
Can I use almond or soy milk instead of half and half and heavy cream?
Since dairy plays a key role in achieving fudge’s creamy texture, substituting with plant-based milks may alter the texture and richness. If you need a dairy-free version, use a high-fat coconut milk for a closer result.
Why is marshmallow fluff included in the recipe?
Marshmallow fluff adds a delightful smooth, chewy texture and sweetness that balance the heavier butter and cream, ensuring your Banana Fudge Recipe stays wonderfully light and creamy.
How long should I let the fudge chill before cutting?
For the best results, chill your fudge in the refrigerator for at least four hours until fully set. This helps the fudge firm up properly and makes cutting easier without crumbling.
Final Thoughts
Making this Banana Fudge Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm embrace of banana-flavored bliss. It’s simple but special, with every step revealing a new layer of deliciousness. Whether you’re preparing it for a festive gathering or a cozy night in, this fudge promises smiles all around. Go ahead, give it a try and watch it become one of your most cherished homemade sweets.
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Print
Banana Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 32 minutes
- Yield: 25 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Banana Fudge recipe combines the sweetness of bananas with creamy white chocolate and marshmallow fluff to create a rich, melt-in-your-mouth treat. Infused with banana flavoring and yellow food coloring for a vibrant look, this fudge is perfect for parties and dessert tables. It requires no baking, but careful simmering and chilling to achieve the perfect texture.
Ingredients
Flavor and Color
- 2 teaspoons banana flavoring
- ½ teaspoon yellow food color gel
Dairy and Sweeteners
- ¾ cup salted sweet cream butter
- ½ cup half and half
- â…“ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon clear vanilla flavoring
- 3 cups granulated sugar, plus 2 tablespoons
Chocolate and Extras
- 1¾ cups white baking chips
- 7 ounces marshmallow fluff
- 2 tablespoons crushed Nilla wafers (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish: Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring it extends up all four sides for easy removal. Lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
- Mix Flavor and Color: In a small glass bowl, combine the banana flavoring and yellow food color gel. Stir well and set aside.
- Melt Butter and Cream: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, add the salted butter, half and half, heavy cream, and clear vanilla flavoring. Stir continuously until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Sugar and Simmer: Gradually add 3 cups of granulated sugar while stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a simmer, which should take about 6 to 7 minutes. Continue to let it simmer gently for an additional 3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning, then remove from heat.
- Melt White Chips: Add the white baking chips to the saucepan. Cover with a lid and let it stand for 3 to 4 minutes to allow the chips to melt fully into the hot mixture.
- Incorporate Marshmallow Fluff: Stir in the marshmallow fluff thoroughly until the fudge mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Add Color and Flavor: Pour in the banana flavor and yellow gel mixture. Stir well until the fudge has an even color and banana flavor infused throughout.
- Transfer to Dish: Spread the fudge evenly into the prepared baking dish using a spatula. Sprinkle the optional crushed Nilla wafers evenly over the top for added texture. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Set Fudge: Let the fudge rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to begin setting, then place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to fully chill and firm up.
- Serve: Once set, carefully lift the fudge out of the dish using the parchment paper edges. Cut into 25 equal pieces. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve for best texture and freshness.
Notes
- Do not skip lining the pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the fudge.
- Simmer gently and stir constantly to avoid burning the sugar mixture.
- Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature before refrigerating to avoid condensation.
- Use crushed Nilla wafers for a subtle crunch, but this is optional based on preference.
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator; it will keep well for up to one week.
