Description
Homemade Banana Powder is a simple and natural way to preserve ripe bananas by drying and grinding them into a fine powder. This versatile powder can be used as a flavor enhancer in smoothies, baking, or as a natural sweetener, providing a convenient way to enjoy the sweet, concentrated flavor of bananas year-round.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 3-4 ripe bananas (or as many as you want to make)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)
Instructions
- Prepare Bananas: Peel the bananas and slice them into thin rounds or chunks for even drying.
- Prevent Browning (Optional): Lightly brush the banana slices with lemon juice to help preserve their color during drying.
- Arrange for Drying: Place the banana slices on a dehydrator tray or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Dry Bananas in Dehydrator: Set the dehydrator to 135°F (57°C) and dry the banana slices for 6-12 hours. Check occasionally until the slices are completely dry and crispy.
- Dry Bananas in Oven: Preheat the oven to its lowest setting (around 170°F or 77°C). Bake the banana slices on the baking sheet for 2-3 hours, flipping occasionally, until thoroughly dried and crisp.
- Cool the Dried Bananas: Once dried, let the banana slices cool completely to room temperature, preventing moisture buildup.
- Grind into Powder: Use a spice grinder or blender to process the dried banana slices into a fine, powdery consistency.
- Store Properly: Transfer the banana powder to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Using lemon juice helps maintain the banana slices’ natural color but can be omitted if not desired.
- The drying time may vary depending on the thickness of slices and humidity conditions.
- This banana powder is natural and contains no additives, making it an excellent additive for smoothies, baking, or as a natural sweetener.
- Ensure banana slices are fully dried to prevent mold during storage.
- Grinding in small batches produces a more consistent powder.
