Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites are a delightful and healthy treat that everyone will love. Perfect for warm weather, they offer a sweet indulgence without the guilt. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a snack, these bites are versatile enough for any occasion. With their creamy peanut butter filling and rich chocolate coating, they stand out as a satisfying dessert option that can be made in just 15 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep time, making it ideal for busy days when you want something delicious.
- Healthy Treat: Enjoy two bites for under 100 calories, allowing you to indulge without compromising your health goals.
- Versatile Snack: These bites work great as an after-school snack, party dessert, or even a refreshing treat on a hot day.
- Freezer Friendly: Keep them stored in the freezer for easy access to a nutritious snack anytime.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids will love helping to make these bites, making it a fun family activity.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes preparing these chocolate-covered delights even easier. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Parchment paper
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Platter or baking sheet
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
- Microwave-safe bowl: Ideal for melting chocolate evenly without burning it.
- Platter or baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for assembling the banana bites.
Ingredients
These frozen chocolate-covered peanut butter banana bites are the perfect healthy warm weather treat. Keep a batch in the freezer for easy snacking and enjoy two bites for less than 100 calories!
For the Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1/3 cup natural peanut butter
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites
Step 1: Prepare the Bananas
- Peel and slice bananas into rounds about 1/4 inch thick.
Step 2: Make Banana Sandwiches
- Line a platter or small baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place about 1/2 teaspoon of peanut butter on one banana slice.
- Top with another banana slice to create a little sandwich.
- Repeat until all banana slices are used, yielding about 30 bites.
- Place the assembled bites on parchment-lined platters or plates.
- Freeze for about 1 hour to harden.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine dark chocolate chips and coconut oil.
- Microwave for 1 minute; stir.
- Continue microwaving in additional 30-second intervals until completely melted (no more than 2 minutes total).
Step 4: Dip the Bites
- Remove one platter of frozen banana bites from the freezer.
- Dip each bite halfway into the melted chocolate until coated.
- If desired, coat fully but remember you’ll need more chocolate chips.
Step 5: Harden the Coating
- Place dipped bites back on the parchment-lined platter.
- Freeze again to harden for about 15 minutes.
Step 6: Store or Serve
- Enjoy immediately or transfer to a freezer-safe container if saving for later.
- They will last at least 1-2 months in the freezer.
Step 7: Thaw Before Eating
- When ready to eat stored bites, allow them to thaw outside of the freezer for about 5 minutes before enjoying.
These deliciously simple Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites are sure to be a hit! Enjoy them fresh or save them for later – either way, they’re an excellent choice!
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to enhance your snacking experience and impress your guests.
As a Party Snack
- Platter Display: Arrange the bites on a decorative platter for a visually appealing treat.
- Mini Dessert Cups: Place each bite in mini cups for individual servings that are easy to grab.
With Dipping Sauces
- Caramel Drizzle: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Nutella Dip: Serve with a side of Nutella for chocolate lovers who want an indulgent twist.
As a Breakfast Treat
- On Yogurt: Top your morning yogurt with chopped bites for added flavor and texture.
- With Oatmeal: Stir some crushed bites into oatmeal for a delightful breakfast option.
Frozen Treats
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two banana bites as the base for an ice cream sandwich.
- Smoothie Addition: Blend bits of frozen banana bites into smoothies for a creamy, chocolatey flavor boost.
How to Perfect Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites
To ensure your Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Bananas: Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture. They should be sweet and slightly soft.
- Peanut Butter: Opt for natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils to keep it healthy.
- Chocolate Melting: Melt chocolate slowly in increments to prevent burning. Stirring helps achieve a smooth consistency.
- Freezing Time: Allow enough time in the freezer (about 1 hour) before dipping to ensure they hold their shape.
- Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn.
- Serving Temperature: Let the bites thaw slightly at room temperature before serving for optimal texture.
Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites
Pairing side dishes with your Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites can elevate your snack game. Here are some delicious options:
- Greek Yogurt: A creamy dip that complements the sweetness of the banana bites perfectly.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits that adds color and variety to your plate.
- Trail Mix: A crunchy combination of nuts and dried fruits that balances the softness of the banana bites.
- Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese to contrast flavors beautifully.
- Granola Bars: Serve alongside homemade granola bars for a hearty snack experience.
- Dark Chocolate Bark: Enhance the chocolate theme with dark chocolate bark sprinkled with sea salt or nuts.
- Coconut Chips: These add a tropical crunch that pairs well with peanut butter and banana flavors.
- Almond Milk Smoothie: Blend almond milk with spinach and bananas for a nutritious drink option that complements your snacks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes will help you make the best Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Using Overripe Bananas: Select bananas that are ripe but not overly soft. This ensures a better texture and flavor.
- Skipping the Freezing Step: Freezing the banana bites before dipping them in chocolate is crucial for easier handling. Don’t skip this step!
- Neglecting Chocolate Tempering: Ensure your chocolate is fully melted but not burnt to achieve a smooth coating. Stir frequently while melting.
- Not Using Parchment Paper: Always line your platters with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Rushing the Hardening Process: Allow enough time for the chocolate to set in the freezer. Rushing this can lead to messy bites.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep them in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Freezing Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They can last for 1-2 months in the freezer without losing quality.
Reheating Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place bites on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds for a quick thaw, but be cautious not to melt the chocolate.
- Stovetop: Use a pan on low heat, placing bites briefly until slightly softened.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites:
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste. Just be aware it may alter the nutritional content slightly.
How long do these bites last in the freezer?
The bites can last for 1-2 months when stored properly in an airtight container or bag.
Are these bites healthy?
Absolutely! With less than 100 calories per serving, they are a nutritious snack packed with healthy fats and fiber from bananas and peanut butter.
Can I customize my Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites?
Yes! You can add toppings like crushed nuts or sprinkles before freezing, or use almond butter instead of peanut butter for a different flavor.
What’s the best way to serve these bites?
Serve them straight from the freezer as a refreshing treat or let them sit out for a few minutes for easier biting.
Final Thoughts
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them by adding your favorite toppings or using different nut butters. Perfect as a healthy snack or dessert, they’re sure to delight anyone who tries them!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 15 servings (30 bites) 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors with Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites, a quick and healthy treat perfect for any occasion. These creamy, frozen snacks combine ripe bananas, smooth peanut butter, and rich dark chocolate into a satisfying dessert that feels indulgent but is low in calories. Ready in just 15 minutes, they make an excellent choice for parties, after-school snacks, or a refreshing treat on hot days. With under 100 calories per serving, you can enjoy guilt-free snacking any time!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1/3 cup natural peanut butter
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil
Instructions
- Peel and slice the bananas into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- Line a platter with parchment paper. Spread 1/2 teaspoon of peanut butter on one banana slice and top with another to create a sandwich. Repeat until all slices are used and freeze for about 1 hour.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips with coconut oil in increments until smooth.
- Dip each frozen banana bite halfway into the melted chocolate and return them to the platter to freeze again for at least 15 minutes.
- Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the freezer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bites (30g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
