Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites
These frozen Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites are a delightful treat that is both healthy and easy to prepare. Perfect for warm weather snacking, these bites combine the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter with the natural sweetness of bananas. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them as an afternoon snack, or looking for a quick dessert option, these bites will surely impress everyone. Plus, with only 100 calories for two bites, they make guilt-free indulgence a reality!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy Treat: Enjoy a sweet dessert without the guilt, as each bite is low in calories and packed with nutrients.
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a batch easily and store them for later enjoyment.
- Versatile Flavors: Customize your bites by using different types of nut butter or adding toppings like crushed nuts or coconut flakes.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Kids will love helping to assemble these bites, making it a great family activity.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a simple afternoon snack, these bites fit perfectly into any setting.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Parchment paper
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Baking sheet or platter
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Parchment paper: It prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless when placing your chocolate-covered bites.
- Microwave-safe bowl: Essential for melting chocolate safely without burning it.
- Baking sheet or platter: Provides ample space to freeze your banana bites without them sticking together.
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 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: Slice the Bananas
- Peel and slice bananas into rounds about 1/4 inch thick.
Step 2: Assemble the Bites
- 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.
- Arrange the assembled bites on two lined platters and place in the freezer to harden for about 1 hour.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
- After an hour, melt your chocolate by adding chocolate chips and coconut oil to a microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave for 1 minute; stir well.
- Continue microwaving in additional 30-second increments until fully melted (this should take no more than 2 minutes).
Step 4: Coat the Bites
- Remove one platter of frozen banana bites from the freezer.
- Dip each bite halfway into the melted chocolate until coated.
- For more coverage, coat fully but note you’ll need extra chocolate chips.
Step 5: Harden the Coated Bites
- Place coated bites back on the parchment-lined platter.
- Freeze again for about 15 minutes until hardened.
Step 6: Store or Enjoy!
- Enjoy immediately or transfer the bites into a freezer-safe container for later use.
- They can be stored in the freezer for at least 1-2 months.
Step 7: Thaw Before Eating
- If stored for longer periods, allow them to thaw at room temperature for about 5 minutes before enjoying their creamy goodness!
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites
These delicious Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a snack, these bites are versatile and sure to please.
As a Quick Snack
- Easy grab-and-go option for busy days.
- Perfect for a post-workout treat.
With a Cup of Coffee
- Pair them with your morning coffee for a sweet start.
- The flavors of chocolate and peanut butter complement coffee well.
At Parties
- Serve them on a platter for an impressive dessert display.
- Great conversation starters and crowd-pleasers at gatherings.
Drizzled with Honey
- Add a touch of sweetness by drizzling honey on top.
- Enhances the flavor while keeping it healthy.
Topped with Nuts
- Sprinkle chopped nuts for added crunch and protein.
- Almonds or walnuts work wonderfully with the flavors.
How to Perfect Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites
To make sure your Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use ripe bananas: Choose bananas that are fully ripe for the best sweetness and texture.
- Opt for high-quality chocolate: Select good quality dark chocolate for rich flavor and a satisfying coat.
- Keep bites uniform: Slice bananas into even rounds to ensure consistent freezing and coating.
- Chill the peanut butter: If your peanut butter is too warm, it may ooze out when you bite into the treats. Chill it slightly before spreading.
- Experiment with toppings: Try adding coconut flakes or sprinkles after dipping in chocolate for extra flair.
- Store properly: Use airtight containers to keep your banana bites fresh in the freezer.
Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites
Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites pair well with several side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some great options to serve alongside:
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balance to the sweet bites.
- Greek Yogurt: Creamy yogurt provides protein and pairs well with the flavors of banana and chocolate.
- Nut Mix: A variety of nuts adds crunch and complements the bites’ creamy texture.
- Oatmeal Cookies: Soft oatmeal cookies create a delightful contrast with the frozen bites.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can enhance the experience, offering savory against sweet.
- Smoothie Bowl: A refreshing smoothie bowl makes a great accompaniment, especially during summer months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites, some common errors can lead to a less enjoyable outcome. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the freezing step: Not freezing the banana bites before dipping in chocolate can cause them to fall apart. Make sure to freeze them for at least an hour.
- Using regular peanut butter: Regular peanut butter can contain added sugars and oils that may affect flavor and texture. Always opt for natural peanut butter for the best results.
- Overheating chocolate: Melting chocolate too quickly can lead to a burnt taste and grainy texture. Heat it slowly in intervals, stirring in between.
- Not slicing bananas evenly: Inconsistent banana slices can make it challenging to assemble your bites. Aim for rounds that are about 1/4 inch thick for uniformity.
- Forgetting to use parchment paper: Placing bites directly on a plate without parchment can make them stick. Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites
- Keep the bites in a freezer-safe storage container or a zip-top bag.
- They can be stored in the freezer for 1-2 months without losing quality.
Reheating Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bites on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes.
- Microwave: Microwave on low power for 10-15 seconds until slightly softened, but do not overheat.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick pan on low heat, turning frequently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites, we’ve got answers!
How many calories are in Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites?
Each bite has approximately 99 calories, making them a guilt-free treat.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes! You can substitute milk chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter taste.
How do I customize my Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites?
Feel free to add toppings like crushed nuts or sprinkles after coating them with chocolate for extra flair.
Are these banana bites suitable for kids?
Absolutely! They are a fun and healthy snack that kids will love.
How do I store leftover banana bites?
Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites are not just delicious; they are also incredibly versatile! You can customize these treats with various toppings or even swap out ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a delightful dessert, give this recipe a try!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 30 bites 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful taste of Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites, a perfect combination of creamy peanut butter, rich dark chocolate, and naturally sweet bananas. These frozen treats are not only a healthy option but also incredibly easy to prepare, making them ideal for warm weather snacking or for satisfying your sweet tooth guilt-free. With just 100 calories for two bites, they make an excellent choice for parties, afternoon snacks, or a quick dessert. Customize them with your favorite nut butters or toppings for a personal touch that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1/3 cup natural peanut butter
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil
Instructions
- Peel and slice bananas into rounds about 1/4 inch thick.
- On a parchment-lined platter, place 1/2 teaspoon of peanut butter on one banana slice and top with another slice to create a sandwich. Repeat until all banana slices are used.
- Freeze assembled bites for about 1 hour.
- Melt chocolate and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl in short intervals until smooth.
- Dip each frozen banana bite halfway into the melted chocolate and return to the lined platter.
- Freeze again for 15 minutes until hardened.
- Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the freezer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bites
- Calories: 99
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
