Homemade Banana Sweet with Only 4 Ingredients

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A Simple and Delicious Way to Use Overripe Bananas

Do you have overripe bananas sitting on your kitchen counter? Instead of throwing them away, turn them into a delicious homemade banana sweet with just four simple ingredients. This traditional banana candy is naturally sweet, rich in flavor, and requires no added sugar—the natural sweetness of the bananas does all the work.

With a smooth, fudgy texture and a hint of chocolate, this treat is perfect for a snack, dessert, or even as a homemade gift. Plus, it’s a great way to reduce food waste while making something delicious for your family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Uses overripe bananas – No more wasted bananas; this recipe turns them into a delicious homemade treat.
  • Only 4 ingredients – Simple pantry staples make this an easy recipe to prepare.
  • No added sugar – The bananas provide natural sweetness, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought sweets.
  • Easy to make – Just blend, cook, shape, and enjoy.
  • Perfect for any occasion – Great for snacks, gifts, or even as a dessert for family gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 2 ¼ pounds ripe bananas (peeled) – Overripe bananas work best as they are naturally sweeter.
  • 2 tablespoons 50% cocoa powder – Adds a rich, chocolatey depth to the banana sweet.
  • Juice of 1 lime (Persian or Key lime) – Helps balance the sweetness and prevents the bananas from darkening.
  • Water (as needed) – Just a small amount to help blend the bananas.
  • Oil (for greasing the pan) – Prevents sticking and makes cutting easier.
  • Demerara sugar (optional, for coating) – Adds a light, crunchy finish to the candies.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Banana Mixture

Peel and Slice the Bananas

  • Start by peeling and slicing the overripe bananas into small pieces. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your candy will be.

Blend Until Smooth

  • Place the banana slices in a blender along with the lime juice and a little water (just enough to help blend smoothly).
  • Blend until you achieve a thick, creamy paste.

Alternative: Mash by Hand

  • If you don’t have a blender, you can mash the bananas with a fork. This will create a more rustic texture, but the flavor will still be delicious.

Step 2: Cook the Mixture

Combine with Cocoa Powder

  • Pour the banana paste into a large, non-stick pan and add the cocoa powder. Stir well to incorporate.

Cook Until Thick

  • Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously to prevent it from sticking. The mixture will begin to thicken as it cooks.

Check for the Right Consistency

Depending on how you plan to use the banana sweet, you can stop cooking at different points:

  • Jam-like consistency – If you want a spreadable banana chocolate jam, cook until the mixture thickens but is still soft.
  • Firm candy consistency – If you want firm, sliceable candies, continue cooking until the mixture completely separates from the sides of the pan and forms a thick, moldable dough. It should come off the spatula in a solid block.

Step 3: Shape and Let It Set

Transfer to a Dish

  • Grease a glass baking dish or tray with a little oil.
  • Spread the cooked banana mixture evenly into the dish, pressing down to smooth the surface.
  • Adjust the thickness depending on how thick you want your banana candies.

Let It Cool and Set

  • Cover the dish with a clean cloth and let it cool at room temperature.
  • For best results, let it set for at least one day to firm up completely.

Step 4: Cut and Finish

Prepare to Cut

  • Lightly dust a wooden cutting board with demerara sugar to prevent the candy from sticking.

Unmold and Slice

  • Carefully remove the set banana candy from the glass dish.
  • Using a sharp knife greased with oil, cut into small squares or bars.

Coat for Extra Texture (Optional)

  • Roll each piece in demerara sugar for a sweet, slightly crunchy coating.
  • This step is optional, but it adds a nice texture contrast to the soft banana sweet.

Serving Ideas

This homemade banana sweet is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:

  • As a healthy snack – A great energy-boosting treat during the day.
  • With coffee or tea – Pairs beautifully with a cup of black coffee or tea.
  • As a dessert – Serve with a scoop of ice cream or drizzle with extra chocolate.
  • Gifting – Package in a box for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Tips for the Best Banana Sweet

  • Use very ripe bananas – The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your candy will be.
  • Cook until the right texture – If you want firm candies, cook until the mixture fully separates from the pan.
  • Let it set properly – Allow at least 24 hours of resting time for the best texture.
  • Store in an airtight container – This keeps the candies fresh for up to one week at room temperature.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

Storing:

  • Keep your banana sweets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
  • If you live in a hot or humid climate, store them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh longer.

Freezing:

  • To freeze, wrap each candy piece in parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe bag.
  • Freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, let them thaw at room temperature.

Final Thoughts

Making homemade banana sweet is a wonderful way to turn overripe bananas into a delicious, naturally sweet treat with a hint of chocolate. With only four ingredients, this easy recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a simple and satisfying dessert.

Whether you enjoy it as a snack, a sweet gift, or a nostalgic homemade treat, this banana candy is sure to become a favorite in your home.

So next time you have overripe bananas, don’t throw them away—make this delicious banana sweet instead.

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