2-Ingredient Healthy Chocolate Banana Fudge

by
2-Ingredient Healthy Chocolate Banana Fudge

Introduction

Indulge in decadence without the guilt! This incredibly simple chocolate banana fudge requires just two main ingredients and contains no added sugar, making it the perfect healthy treat for chocolate lovers. The natural sweetness from ripe bananas combines with rich dark chocolate to create a velvety, fudgy texture that melts in your mouth. Ready in just minutes with minimal effort, this dessert is perfect for satisfying sweet cravings while keeping your health goals on track. Whether you’re following a refined sugar-free diet or simply looking for a nutritious way to enjoy something sweet, this banana chocolate fudge will become your new go-to recipe.

Ingredients

  • 3 medium ripe bananas (approximately 300-350g or 10-12oz)
  • 200g (7oz) dark chocolate (sugar-free or low-sugar), chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract/essence (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare your pan: Line a small square baking dish (approximately 18cm/7inch) with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
  2. Prepare the bananas: Peel the bananas and place them in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Use a fork to mash them thoroughly until smooth and no large chunks remain.
  3. Melt the chocolate: Break or chop the dark chocolate into small pieces. You can melt the chocolate using one of two methods:
    • Microwave method: Place the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until completely melted and smooth.
    • Double boiler method: Place the chocolate in a heat-proof bowl over a pot of simmering water (ensuring the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the bowl). Stir occasionally until the chocolate is completely melted.
  4. Combine ingredients: Pour the melted chocolate into the mashed bananas. Add the cinnamon and vanilla extract if using. Stir quickly until all ingredients are well combined and smooth.
  5. Transfer to pan: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  6. Chill: Place the dish in the refrigerator and allow the fudge to set for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
  7. Slice and serve: Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper. Place on a cutting board and cut into squares or rectangles of your desired size.

Nutritional Information and Timing

Preparation Time: 5-10 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours minimum
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 16 small squares

Per serving (approximate):

  • Calories: 75-85 calories
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fat: 4g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 5g (all from natural sources)

Note: Nutritional values will vary based on the specific type of dark chocolate used.

Cooking Tips and Tricks

  1. Choose the right bananas: Use very ripe bananas with brown spots on the peel for maximum sweetness. This is crucial since we’re not adding any sugar to the recipe.
  2. Select quality chocolate: Opt for a high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for the best flavor and health benefits. Read labels carefully to find options without added sugar or with minimal sugar content.
  3. Temperature matters: Ensure your melted chocolate isn’t too hot when you add it to the banana mixture to prevent the banana from cooking or the mixture from separating.
  4. Smooth texture: For an ultra-smooth fudge, you can blend the mashed bananas in a food processor before adding the chocolate.
  5. Quick setting trick: If you’re in a hurry, place the fudge in the freezer for 30-45 minutes instead of refrigerating for 2 hours. However, the texture is best when allowed to set slowly in the refrigerator.
  6. Cutting technique: For clean cuts, run your knife under hot water and wipe dry between slices.
  7. Storage temperature: Remove the fudge from the refrigerator about 5-10 minutes before serving for the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Variations and Substitutions

  1. Nut Lover’s Version: Add 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts to the mixture before chilling for added texture and nutrition.
  2. Coconut Dream: Mix in 2 tablespoons of unsweetened shredded coconut and top with additional coconut before chilling.
  3. Spiced Delight: Enhance the flavor profile with 1/4 teaspoon of cardamom or nutmeg along with the cinnamon.
  4. Orange Infusion: Add the zest of one orange to the mixture for a refreshing citrus twist.
  5. Peanut Butter Swirl: Warm 2 tablespoons of natural peanut butter until pourable, then swirl it into the mixture before chilling.
  6. Mint Chocolate: Add 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract instead of vanilla for a refreshing mint chocolate fudge.
  7. Chocolate Substitutions: While dark chocolate works best, you can experiment with:
    • Sugar-free milk chocolate (may alter the firmness)
    • Carob chips for a caffeine-free alternative
    • Stevia-sweetened chocolate chips
  8. Texture Enhancers: Sprinkle the top with a pinch of flaky sea salt, cacao nibs, or hemp seeds before chilling for added dimension.

Common FAQs

Q: Why didn’t my fudge set properly?

A: This could be due to excess moisture in your bananas or the ratio of banana to chocolate. Make sure to use the exact measurements listed and thoroughly mash the bananas. If your fudge is still too soft after refrigeration, you can place it in the freezer for 15-30 minutes before serving.

Q: Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

A: Yes, but thaw and drain them thoroughly first, as frozen bananas release excess water when thawed, which could affect the texture of your fudge.

Q: Is this recipe truly sugar-free?

A: The recipe contains no added refined sugar, but bananas contain natural sugars, and even sugar-free dark chocolate may contain small amounts of alternative sweeteners. Check your chocolate’s label if you have specific dietary restrictions.

Q: How long does this fudge last?

A: Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the fudge will stay fresh for up to 5 days. In the freezer, it can last up to 1 month.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?

A: Yes, simply ensure you’re using vegan dark chocolate that doesn’t contain milk solids or other animal products.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  1. Refrigerator storage: Store the fudge in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days.
  2. Freezer option: For longer storage, freeze the fudge in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. Freeze for up to 1 month.
  3. Thawing instructions: When ready to enjoy frozen fudge, thaw individual pieces in the refrigerator for about 1 hour or at room temperature for 20-30 minutes.
  4. Portion control: Consider cutting the fudge into individual servings before storing, which makes it easier to grab just one piece when cravings strike.
  5. Meal prep idea: Make a double batch on the weekend and portion into small containers for a week’s worth of healthy desserts.
  6. Gift giving: For a thoughtful homemade gift, prepare this fudge 1-2 days in advance, cut into squares, and arrange in a decorative tin lined with parchment paper. Keep refrigerated until gifting and advise recipients to refrigerate promptly.
  7. Freshness indicator: While this fudge doesn’t spoil quickly, look for signs of the banana oxidizing (turning browner) as an indicator that it’s time to consume or freeze the remaining pieces.

This 2-ingredient chocolate banana fudge proves that healthy desserts don’t have to be complicated or sacrifice flavor. With its rich taste and simple preparation, it’s the perfect solution for mindful indulgence. Whether you’re serving it as an after-dinner treat, packing it in lunchboxes, or enjoying it as an energizing afternoon snack, this nutritious fudge delivers satisfaction without compromise. The best part? No baking required, making it an ideal recipe for hot summer days or when you need a quick chocolate fix without turning on the oven.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email