Welcome to the ultimate Banana Fudge Recipe! If you’re searching for a dessert that perfectly marries the sweet, comforting flavor of ripe bananas with the rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture of classic fudge, you’ve found it. This recipe is incredibly simple, requires no candy thermometer, and delivers foolproof, creamy results every single time. It’s the perfect treat for parties, holidays, or just a Tuesday afternoon pick-me-up.
Why You’ll Love This Banana Fudge Recipe
Before we dive in, let’s talk about what makes this recipe a standout. Forget artificial flavorings; we use real, ripe banana to give this fudge an authentic, irresistible taste. It’s a fantastic way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter!
- Incredibly Easy: With simple steps and no special equipment, it’s a perfect recipe for beginners.
- Creamy, Not Grainy: We’re using a secret ingredient that guarantees a silky smooth texture.
- Real Banana Flavor: The natural sweetness of bananas shines through in every bite.
- Perfect for Gifting: Wrapped in a beautiful box, it makes a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift.
Key Ingredients for Perfect Banana Fudge
The magic of this easy Banana Fudge Recipe lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this creamy confection.
- Ripe Banana: One medium, very ripe banana (the more brown spots, the better!) is the star of the show.
- White Chocolate Chips: This forms the base of our fudge, providing a creamy texture and sweet flavor that complements the banana perfectly.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient is crucial for a smooth, no-fail fudge. Do not substitute with evaporated milk.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- Marshmallow Creme (or Fluff): This is our secret weapon against grainy fudge! It ensures a consistently smooth and creamy result.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances all the other flavors.
- Optional: Chopped Walnuts or Pecans: For a delightful crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
How to Make Banana Fudge (Step-by-Step)
Ready to make the best fudge of your life? This Banana Fudge Recipe comes together in just a few simple steps. Let’s get started!
- Prep Your Pan: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to act as handles. This will make it easy to lift the fudge out later.
- Mash the Banana: In a small bowl, thoroughly mash the ripe banana until it’s as smooth as possible. Set it aside.
- Melt the Base: In a medium saucepan, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Heat over low-medium heat, stirring constantly until everything is melted and smooth. Don’t let the mixture boil.
- Combine Ingredients: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Immediately stir in the mashed banana, marshmallow creme, and vanilla extract. Stir vigorously until the mixture is well-combined and glossy. If you’re using nuts, fold them in now.
- Pour and Set: Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan and spread it into an even layer using a spatula.
- Chill: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 4 hours, or until firm. For best results, let it set overnight.
- Slice and Serve: Once the fudge is firm, use the parchment paper handles to lift it out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and cut it into small squares.
Pro Tips for The Creamiest Fudge
Want to ensure your fudge is absolutely perfect? Follow these simple tips from our kitchen to yours.
- Use Very Ripe Bananas: The riper the banana, the more intense the flavor and natural sweetness it will impart to the fudge.
- Don’t Scorch the Chocolate: Low and slow is the key when melting your base. Rushing this step can cause the chocolate to seize or burn.
- Work Quickly: Once you add the marshmallow creme and banana, the fudge will start to set up fast. Mix and pour without delay for the best texture.
- Parchment Paper is a Must: Don’t skip lining the pan. It makes removing and cutting the fudge incredibly easy and mess-free.
Flavor Variations to Try
While this Banana Fudge Recipe is delicious as is, you can easily customize it! Here are a few ideas:
- Peanut Butter Banana Fudge: Swirl in 1/4 cup of creamy peanut butter just before pouring the fudge into the pan.
- Chocolate Banana Fudge: Use milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips instead of white chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Cinnamon Spice: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the melting chocolate mixture for a warm, spiced version.
For another fruity fudge idea, check out this amazing Blueberry Fudge Recipe. And if you’re a fan of bananas in baked goods, you can’t go wrong with our classic Chocolate Chip Banana Bread.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Proper storage is key to keeping your fudge fresh and delicious.
- At Room Temperature: Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Place wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- In the Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: You can freeze this fudge! Wrap the entire block tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and serving.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Banana Fudge Recipe
Absolutely! While white chocolate pairs beautifully with banana, you can easily substitute it with semi-sweet, milk, or dark chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. The steps remain the same.
No, you cannot substitute regular milk for sweetened condensed milk in this recipe. Sweetened condensed milk has a unique sugar and milk solid concentration that is essential for the fudge to set properly and achieve its creamy texture.
Once you remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the marshmallow creme, banana, and vanilla, the mixture will become thick and glossy. As soon as all the ingredients are fully combined, you should pour it into your prepared pan immediately.
Properly stored in an airtight container, this fudge will last for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
Grainy fudge is usually caused by sugar crystals forming. Our recipe prevents this by using marshmallow creme and sweetened condensed milk, which ensures a consistently smooth and creamy texture without the need for a candy thermometer.
The Best Banana Fudge Recipe
Banana Fudge Recipe (Creamy & Easy)
Ingredients
Equipment
Instructions
- Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to act as handles.
- In a small bowl, thoroughly mash the ripe banana until it's as smooth as possible. Set it aside.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Heat over low-medium heat, stirring constantly until everything is melted and smooth. Do not let the mixture boil.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Immediately stir in the mashed banana, marshmallow creme, and vanilla extract. Stir vigorously until the mixture is well-combined and glossy. If you're using nuts, fold them in now.
- Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan and spread it into an even layer using a spatula.
- Refrigerate the fudge for at least 4 hours, or until firm. For best results, let it set overnight.
- Once the fudge is firm, use the parchment paper handles to lift it out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and cut it into small squares.
Notes
Work quickly once the fudge is off the heat as it begins to set fast.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Share Your Creation!
We are so excited for you to try this creamy and delicious Banana Fudge Recipe! It’s a true crowd-pleaser and a joy to make. If you make this recipe, we would love to see it! Please share your creation on Pinterest and tag us. Happy cooking!
