Got some overripe bananas on your hands? Make a sweet, healthy treat that’s not only for the kids, but you too!
Now, I’m sure you can make banana fruit leather using parchment paper or a silicon mat on a baking sheet in the oven set to the lowest temperature, but I’ve not yet personally tried it so I can’t honestly attest to it.
However I have made it using a dehydrator, so that’s what I’m going to share with you today…
How to Make Banana Fruit Leather
What you’ll need:
– 1 bunch of at least 4 bananas (the more ripened, the better)
– blender, food processor, or potato masher
– dehydrator
Peel and puree, blend, or mash the bananas until smooth. As you’ll see below, I used a VERY basic blender – the Ninja Drink Maker.
Once well-blended, pour the banana puree onto a dehydrator sheet. Spread with a rubber spatula, trying not to spread it too thin (harder to peel off and may turn out crispy) or too thick (takes longer to dry).
Dehydrate at 110 degrees IF you want to preserve most of the nutrients – this means you’ll need a dehydrator with temperature control.
Many models such as the Ronco, do not have one. I use the Nesco Snackmaster that does.
It may take anywhere from 8-12 hours depending on a number of factors such as climate, the temperature in your home, etc., so keep checking it every several hours.
You can see my finger indent in this batch from testing it before it was fully done… never mind the little torn off area on the side there. LOL
And here is what the finished product looks like once it’s done and you’ve peeled it off of the sheet.
You can now cut or tear this up into pieces or “squares” and roll them up. Keep stored in an airtight container. As long as it’s totally dry, it will keep for a while… I can’t tell you how long though because it always gets eaten up QUICKLY in my house!
You can also make other variations such as strawberry banana fruit leather, blueberry banana fruit leather and more… be creative!
I love to spread almond butter on it… YUM! But it’s good all by itself too.
I’ve been making fruit leather for years since my days as a raw fooder, and it was such a pleasure sharing this recipe with you today!
Try it and let me know what you think!
