Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites are a delicious and healthy treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply looking for a quick snack, these frozen bites are your go-to option. With their creamy peanut butter center and rich chocolate coating, they provide satisfaction without the guilt. Plus, they can be made in under 15 minutes and stored in the freezer for easy access!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: These bites come together quickly with minimal steps, making them a hassle-free treat.
• Healthy Snacking: Each bite is under 100 calories, allowing you to indulge without overdoing it.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect for parties, as a post-workout snack, or even a sweet addition to lunchboxes.
• Kid-Friendly: Children will love the combination of chocolate and peanut butter, making it an easy way to get them eating fruit.
• Freezer Friendly: Make a batch and store them in the freezer for whenever you need a quick snack.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Parchment paper
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Platter or small baking sheet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Freezer-safe storage container

Importance of Each Tool

• Parchment paper: It prevents sticking and makes clean-up effortless.
• Microwave-safe bowl: Essential for melting chocolate safely without burning it.
• Platter or small baking sheet: Great for arranging your bites while they freeze.

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!

• 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

1. Peel and slice bananas into rounds about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 2: Create Banana Sandwiches

1. Line a platter or small baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place about 1/2 teaspoon of peanut butter on one banana slice.
3. Top with another banana slice to form a little sandwich.
4. Repeat until all banana slices are used, resulting in about 30 bites.
5. Place these on two parchment-lined platters or plates and freeze for about 1 hour.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

1. After an hour, combine dark chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Microwave for 1 minute, then stir.
3. Continue microwaving in additional 30-second increments until fully melted (this should take no more than 2 minutes).

Step 4: Dip the Bites

1. Remove one platter of frozen banana bites from the freezer.
2. Dip each bite into the melted chocolate so that half is coated (you can coat fully if desired).
3. Return coated bites to the parchment-lined platter.

Step 5: Freeze Until Firm

1. Place bites back in the freezer to harden up while you dip the remaining platter.
2. Let both platters harden for about 15 minutes.

Step 6: Store or Enjoy

1. Once hardened, enjoy your treats immediately or transfer them into a freezer-safe storage container for later use.
2. They can last at least 1-2 months in the freezer.

Step 7: Serving Suggestions

1. When ready to eat from frozen storage, allow them to thaw at room temperature for about 5 minutes before indulging.

Enjoy these tasty Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites as an energizing snack!

How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites

These frozen chocolate covered peanut butter banana bites are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a fun dessert, here are some creative serving ideas.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the banana bites on a beautiful platter for an eye-catching dessert.
• Pair them with fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries for added color and flavor.

With Greek Yogurt

• Serve the bites alongside a bowl of creamy Greek yogurt.
• The yogurt adds a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the chocolate and bananas.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Include banana bites as part of a fun charcuterie board.
• Add nuts, cheese, and other fruits for a well-rounded snack experience.

As an Afternoon Treat

• Enjoy these bites as a quick afternoon pick-me-up.
• They provide a satisfying crunch without the guilt!

In Smoothie Bowls

• Chop up the banana bites and sprinkle them on top of smoothie bowls.
• They add texture and enhance the flavor profile of your bowl.

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.

• Use ripe bananas: Choose bananas that are ripe for the best sweetness and creaminess.
• Melt chocolate carefully: Microwave in short increments to prevent burning. Stir between each session.
• Experiment with nut butter: Swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for different flavors.
• Add toppings: Sprinkle sea salt or crushed nuts on top of the chocolate coating for extra crunch.
• Keep them cold: Store your banana bites in the freezer until ready to eat to maintain their 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 fantastic options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the bites.
2. Granola: Sprinkle granola on top of yogurt for added crunch and fiber that complements the banana flavors.
3. Nut Mix: A blend of almonds, walnuts, and cashews offers healthy fats and protein, perfect for energy boosts.
4. Dark Chocolate Almonds: Enhance your chocolate experience with dark chocolate-covered almonds alongside your bites.
5. Rice Cakes: Light and crunchy rice cakes serve as a perfect base for additional toppings like yogurt or more nut butter.
6. Veggie Sticks: Crisp vegetable sticks like carrots or celery provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Boldly skip the freezing step: Failing to freeze the banana sandwiches before dipping can lead to messy, soft bites. Always freeze for at least an hour for firm and manageable bites.
• Boldly ignore the chocolate melting technique: Microwaving chocolate too long can cause it to seize. Melt in short bursts, stirring frequently to ensure smooth chocolate.
• Boldly use any peanut butter: Some peanut butters contain added sugars and oils that can alter flavor and texture. Use natural peanut butter for a healthier option.
• Boldly forget about parchment paper: Not using parchment paper can make your bites stick and break apart. Line your trays with parchment for easy removal.
• Boldly overcoat with chocolate: While it’s tempting to cover each bite completely, you may run out of chocolate chips. Aim for half-coating to save ingredients and still enjoy delicious bites.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They will last for 1-2 months in the freezer without losing quality.

Reheating Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on low power in 10-15 second intervals until just warm.
• Stovetop: Place on a non-stick skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites?

Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites are frozen treats made by layering banana slices with peanut butter and coating them in melted chocolate. They are a healthy snack option.

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This recipe yields about 30 bites, perfect for sharing or keeping on hand for snacking throughout the week.

Can I customize my Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites?

Absolutely! You can add toppings like crushed nuts or sprinkles before freezing them or use different types of nut butter for variety.

How should I store leftover Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Are these bites suitable for kids?

Yes! They are a fun, nutritious snack that kids will love, making them great for school lunches or after-school snacks.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites are not only a delightful treat but also offer versatility in customization. You can easily adjust ingredients based on your preferences. Try making these healthy bites today, and enjoy their wonderful flavors!