The moment the rich, buttery scent of simmering sugar and ripe banana hits my kitchen air, I’m instantly transported back to Christmases past. I discovered this classic banana fudge recipe in a tattered community cookbook years ago, and it’s since become my absolute must-make holiday treat. The aroma is pure comfort—a warm, sweet, and nostalgic perfume that promises creamy, dreamy bites of banana bliss. I love how it feels like a hug in dessert form, and today, I’m so excited to share my perfected version with you.
Ingredients
- 3 cups + 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- ¾ cup salted sweet cream butter
- ¾ cup half-and-half
- ⅔ cup heavy cream
- 7 oz marshmallow fluff
- 1½ cups white baking chips
- 2 tsp banana flavoring
- 1 tsp clear vanilla flavoring
- ⅛ tsp yellow food color gel (optional)
- 2 tbsp crushed Nilla wafers
Let’s talk about a few key players here. Using salted sweet cream butter is non-negotiable in my book—it perfectly balances the intense sweetness and adds a wonderful depth. I’ve tried it with unsalted and it just falls flat. The banana flavoring (not extract) is essential for that iconic, nostalgic banana taste without adding moisture from real fruit, which would ruin the fudge’s texture. And please, don’t skip the marshmallow fluff! It’s the secret to that smooth, never-grainy consistency. The Nilla wafer sprinkle at the end? It adds a tiny crunch that makes all the difference.
Equipment Needed
- Heavy-bottomed 3-quart saucepan
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
- Candy thermometer
- 9×9 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
Trust me, the right tools make this process so much smoother. That heavy-bottomed saucepan is your best friend—it distributes heat evenly and prevents scorching, which I learned the hard way with a thin pot one disastrous batch. A candy thermometer is also crucial. I’ve tried the “soft-ball stage” test by dropping syrup in water, but with fudge, precision is key for the perfect set. Lining your pan with parchment paper isn’t just a suggestion; it’s what lets you lift out a perfect, beautiful slab of fudge for easy cutting.
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