If you love the rich, creamy texture of fudge but want to add a fruity twist, the Banana Fudge Recipe is an absolute must-try. This delightful treat blends the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with smooth, velvety condensed milk and just the right amount of sugar and butter to create a fudge that’s both unique and irresistibly decadent. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a sweet snack to brighten your day, this Banana Fudge Recipe promises a flavor experience that’s unforgettable and totally addictive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the perfect banana fudge starts with simple, quality ingredients that work in harmony. Each one plays a vital role—ripe bananas bring natural sweetness and moisture, sugar adds the essential fudgy richness, and butter creates that luscious creamy base you’ll fall in love with.
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed: The riper, the sweeter—these add natural banana flavor and moisture to the fudge.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Provides the perfect level of sweetness and helps achieve that classic fudge texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and richness without overpowering the banana flavor.
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk: The key to creamy, melt-in-your-mouth fudge perfection.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, inviting aroma.
- 1 cup white chocolate chips (optional): For a subtle, creamy contrast and added sweetness.
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional): Adds an irresistible crunch and nutty depth.
How to Make Banana Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
Start by placing the mashed ripe bananas, granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and sweetened condensed milk into a large saucepan over medium heat. The magic begins here as these simple ingredients meld together to create the foundation for your fudge. Stir constantly to avoid burning and to blend everything into one smooth mixture.
Step 2: Bring to a Gentle Boil and Simmer
Once your mixture begins to simmer, reduce the heat and let it gently boil for 10 to 15 minutes. Keep stirring regularly until the fudge mixture thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon. This step builds the perfect fudge texture that will give you that classic, creamy bite we all crave.
Step 3: Add Flavorful Finishing Touches
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract—this little addition elevates the flavor, making it wonderfully aromatic and rich. If you want to kick the fudge up a notch, fold in the white chocolate chips and chopped nuts now for extra creaminess and crunch.
Step 4: Pour and Set the Fudge
Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to make for an easy release later, then pour the luscious fudge mixture evenly into the pan. Spread it out smoothly with a spatula. Let your fudge cool completely at room temperature so it can set perfectly. Once firm, slice it into squares and get ready to indulge!
How to Serve Banana Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
To make your banana fudge look as incredible as it tastes, consider a light drizzle of melted white chocolate or caramel on top. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt can beautifully contrast the sweet richness, making each bite exciting and balanced.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or your favorite tea, offering a sweet and satisfying finish to any meal. It also shines as a midday pick-me-up with a glass of cold milk or a refreshing fruit smoothie.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the fudge into uniform squares and arrange them on a decorative platter for your next party. For gifting, pack the squares in a pretty box lined with parchment paper. If you want to impress even more, chill the fudge before serving for a firmer texture and cleaner slices.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your banana fudge fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay moist and delicious for up to a week. If you prefer, refrigeration extends freshness for up to two weeks, though the fudge will become a bit firmer.
Freezing
You can freeze banana fudge for longer storage—wrap the squares individually in wax paper or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen fudge lasts for up to three months! When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw at room temperature for a perfect treat.
Reheating
Since fudge is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, reheating isn’t typically necessary. However, if your fudge has chilled in the fridge and feels too firm, let it sit at room temperature for 15 to 30 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, frozen bananas work perfectly for the Banana Fudge Recipe! Just thaw them fully and drain any excess liquid before mashing to avoid a watery fudge consistency.
Can I substitute the white chocolate chips with another type of chocolate?
Absolutely! Dark or milk chocolate chips are great alternatives. Dark chocolate will add a richer, less sweet flavor, while milk chocolate will make the fudge creamier and sweeter.
Is it possible to make this fudge without sweetened condensed milk?
Sweetened condensed milk is key to the creamy texture and sweetness in this recipe, but you could experiment with homemade condensed milk substitutes. Just know this might slightly change the flavor and texture.
How can I make the Banana Fudge Recipe vegan or dairy-free?
Try swapping the butter for coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative, and use a dairy-free version of sweetened condensed milk made from coconut or almond milk. Just make sure your white chocolate chips are also dairy-free if using them.
What nuts work best in this banana fudge?
Walnuts and pecans are classic choices that add a lovely crunch and earthy flavor, but feel free to use your favorite nuts or even seeds for a unique texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Banana Fudge Recipe. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a comforting bite of sweetness combined with the warmth of bananas and the indulgent creaminess of traditional fudge. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or keeping it all to yourself, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. So grab those ripe bananas and get ready to create a fudge that’s unforgettable in every bite!
Print
Banana Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Banana Fudge recipe is a delicious twist on traditional fudge, blending the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with creamy sweetened condensed milk, butter, and sugar. Enhanced with vanilla extract and optionally mixed with white chocolate chips and chopped nuts, it offers a rich, indulgent treat perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare on the stovetop and set without baking, this fudge is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress guests with its unique flavor.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-ins
- 1 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the mashed bananas, granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly to prevent burning as the mixture heats.
- Simmer the Fudge: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. Stir frequently until the mixture thickens and reaches a fudge-like consistency.
- Add Flavor: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Optionally, fold in white chocolate chips and chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Cool and Set: Pour the hot fudge mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and spread it evenly. Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature until it firms up.
- Serve: Once the fudge has set, cut it into 24 squares and serve. For a firmer texture, chill the fudge in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before cutting.
Notes
- Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your fudge will be.
- Texture Variation: Customize your fudge by adding different nuts such as walnuts or pecans, or increase the amount of chocolate chips for more richness.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 5-7 days, refrigerate up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months wrapped individually in wax or plastic wrap.
- Presentation: Cut into uniform squares and serve on a decorative plate or gift box. Drizzle with melted white chocolate or caramel, or sprinkle with sea salt for enhanced flavor.
- Substitutions: For a vegan or dairy-free version, replace butter with dairy-free butter or coconut oil and use dairy-free sweetened condensed milk. Choose dairy-free chocolate chips if adding.
