Chocolate Banana Peanut Bites

This chocolate banana peanut butter bites recipe transforms simple ingredients into decadent, bite-sized treats that satisfy sweet cravings without the guilt. These frozen delights combine the natural sweetness of bananas with creamy peanut butter, all wrapped in a chocolate shell for the perfect snack or dessert.

I originally created these when looking for a healthier alternative to ice cream bars for my children. Now they've become our favorite summer treat, and my kids often join me in the kitchen to help assemble their own special batch.

Ingredients

• Bananas: Choose ripe but still firm bananas with just a few brown spots for the perfect sweetness and structure
• Peanut Butter: Opt for natural peanut butter with minimal ingredients for the best flavor and nutritional profile
• Melted Chocolate: Milk chocolate candy wafers create a smooth coating but dark chocolate chips or almond bark work beautifully too, each offering a different flavor profile

Step-by-Step Instructions

Slice the Bananas:

Cut your bananas into 3/8" to 1/2" thick slices using a sharp knife. The thickness matters here too thin and they'll become mushy, too thick and they'll be difficult to eat frozen.

Create Peanut Butter Sandwiches:

Apply a generous layer of peanut butter between two banana slices, creating little sandwiches. The peanut butter should be thick enough to hold the slices together but not so thick that it squeezes out the sides.

Initial Freezing:

Arrange your banana peanut butter sandwiches on a parchment lined baking sheet, ensuring they don't touch each other. Freeze for approximately 30 minutes until the bananas are firm and the peanut butter has set. This crucial step prevents the bananas from falling apart during chocolate dipping.

Melt the Chocolate:

While the banana bites are chilling, melt your chocolate using either a double boiler or microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently to prevent burning. The chocolate should be completely smooth and slightly cooled before dipping.

Chocolate Coating:

Insert a toothpick into each frozen banana sandwich and dip completely into the melted chocolate, ensuring all sides are covered. Allow excess chocolate to drip off before placing back onto a fresh piece of parchment paper.

Final Freezing:

Return the chocolate coated bites to the freezer for at least 1 hour to fully set. Once completely frozen, transfer to an airtight container for storage.

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The chocolate is truly the crowning element of this recipe. I've experimented with everything from high-end couverture chocolate to simple chocolate chips, and while the quality does make a difference in taste, what matters most is how the chocolate complements the banana and peanut butter. My family's favorite memory with these treats was during a backyard movie night when we served them alongside popcorn for a sweet-and-salty combo that everyone raved about.

Storage Tips

These banana bites will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months when stored properly in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. For the best texture and flavor experience, let them thaw for about 5 minutes before eating. This short resting period allows the banana to soften slightly while the chocolate remains intact, creating the perfect contrast of textures.

Flavor Variations

While the classic combination is irresistible, you can easily customize these treats. Try almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanut butter for different flavor profiles. Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on the chocolate before it sets, or mix crushed nuts into the melted chocolate for added crunch. For a more indulgent version, drizzle with white chocolate after the milk chocolate has set.

Serving Suggestions

These banana bites make a perfect afternoon snack on their own, but they also shine as part of a larger dessert spread. Serve them alongside fresh berries for a colorful dessert platter. They can be elegant enough for dinner parties when placed in mini cupcake liners and garnished with a tiny mint leaf. For children's parties, insert popsicle sticks before freezing to create banana peanut butter pops.

Kid-Friendly Kitchen Project

This recipe is ideal for getting children involved in the kitchen. Even young kids can help with assembling the banana sandwiches while older children can assist with the chocolate dipping. The waiting periods between freezing stages teach patience, and the customizable nature of the recipe allows each family member to create their own signature version with different toppings or mix-ins.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?

Yes, dark chocolate is a great alternative to milk chocolate. It provides a richer flavor and less sweetness, complementing the bananas and peanut butter perfectly.

→ How long should I freeze the banana bites before coating them?

Freeze the banana bites for about 15-20 minutes, just until they are firm enough to handle without falling apart.

→ Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?

Absolutely! Almond butter works well as a substitute and offers a slightly different, nutty flavor profile.

→ What is the best way to melt chocolate for dipping?

You can melt chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 15-20 second intervals, stirring between each, or use a double-boiler for controlled, even melting.

→ How should I store the finished banana bites?

Store the chocolate-coated banana bites in an airtight container in the freezer. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week and can be enjoyed directly from the freezer.