Craving a naturally sweet and chewy treat? This Strawberry Banana Fruit Leather offers a delightful and healthy banana dessert that’s incredibly simple to make at home. You’ll love creating this vibrant, healthy snack that tastes just like candy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Ripe Bananas: Essential for sweetness and texture. Use slightly overripe bananas for the best flavor.
- Fresh Strawberries: Provides a tangy contrast. You can use frozen strawberries (thawed) in a pinch.
- Lemon Juice: Brightens the flavor and helps prevent browning. Lime juice also works.
Ingredients:
- 2 large ripe bananas
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 5-7 hours (mostly passive drying time)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours (in a dehydrator or oven)
- Servings: 4-6
- Tools Needed: Blender or food processor, parchment paper, baking sheet or dehydrator trays.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Fruit
Peel your ripe bananas and hull the fresh strawberries. You want all your fruit ready for blending. This step ensures a smooth process.
2. Blend Until Smooth
Combine the bananas, strawberries, and lemon juice in a blender or food processor. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth with no lumps. This creates the perfect base for your healthy banana dessert.
3. Spread the Mixture
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang. Pour the fruit mixture onto the parchment paper and spread it evenly, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Aim for an even thickness for consistent drying.
4. Dry Your Fruit Leather
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to its lowest setting (usually 170-200°F or 75-90°C). Prop the oven door open slightly with a wooden spoon to allow moisture to escape. Bake for 4-6 hours, or until the fruit leather is no longer sticky and peels easily from the parchment paper.
Dehydrator Method: Spread the mixture onto dehydrator trays lined with parchment paper or silicone sheets. Dehydrate at 135°F (57°C) for 4-6 hours, or until pliable and dry to the touch. This method often gives a more consistent result for healthy banana desserts.
5. Cool and Cut
Once dry, remove the fruit leather from the oven or dehydrator and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once cool, peel it off the parchment paper and cut it into strips or shapes. You can use kitchen shears for clean cuts.
Variation Ideas:
- Berry Medley: Use a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries.
- Tropical Twist: Add a slice of mango or pineapple to the blend.
- Cinnamon Spice: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Strawberry Banana Fruit Leather in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 weeks. You can also layer the pieces between parchment paper to prevent sticking. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you make fruit leather without a dehydrator?
Yes, you can easily make it in your oven on the lowest setting, keeping the door ajar.
How do you know when fruit leather is done?
It should be pliable, slightly tacky but not sticky, and peel off the parchment paper easily.
Can you use frozen fruit?
Yes, thaw frozen strawberries and bananas completely and drain any excess liquid before blending.
Why did my fruit leather crack?
It likely dried out too much. Next time, check it more frequently during the last hour of drying.
Is this a healthy snack?
Absolutely! It’s made with natural fruit, making it a wonderful healthy banana dessert option.
Can you add other sweeteners?
While not usually necessary due to the ripe bananas, you can add a tiny drizzle of maple syrup if your fruit isn’t sweet enough.
