Chocolate Almond Butter Banana Bites
When you’re craving a sweet yet healthy treat, these Chocolate Almond Butter Banana Bites are the perfect solution. They’re quick to make, packed with nutrients, and incredibly delicious. This simple recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas, the creaminess of almond butter, and the richness of dark chocolate, creating a guilt-free indulgence that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Not only are these banana bites a delicious snack, but they also offer various health benefits. Almond butter provides healthy fats and protein, while bananas are loaded with potassium and other essential nutrients. The dark chocolate offers antioxidants, and if you use chia seeds as a topping, you’ll get a boost of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.
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Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
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Chocolate Almond Butter Banana Bites – A Quick and Healthy Snack
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 bites 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These Chocolate Almond Butter Banana Bites are a delicious, healthy treat combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with rich almond butter and dark chocolate. Coated in a silky chocolate layer and sprinkled with optional chia seeds for an added crunch, these bites make the perfect snack or dessert. They’re quick to prepare, easy to eat, and satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt.
Ingredients
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3 ripe bananas
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1/3 cup almond butter
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1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
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1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional, helps with smoothness of the chocolate)
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1 teaspoon chia seeds (optional, for added texture and nutrition)
Instructions
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Prepare the Bananas:
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Peel the bananas and slice them into approximately 1/2-inch thick rounds.
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Make the Almond Butter Filling:
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In a small bowl, stir the almond butter to ensure it’s well-mixed and smooth. If the almond butter is too thick, you can slightly warm it in the microwave for a few seconds to make it more spreadable.
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Assemble the Bites:
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Place a small dollop (about 1 teaspoon) of almond butter on top of each banana slice.
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Place another banana slice on top of the almond butter to create a sandwich. Repeat for all banana slices.
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Melt the Chocolate:
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In a microwave-safe bowl, add the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using). Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
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Coat the Bites:
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Dip each banana sandwich into the melted chocolate, coating them thoroughly.
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If you like, sprinkle a few chia seeds on top of the chocolate-covered banana bites for added crunch and nutritional benefits.
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Chill and Serve:
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Place the chocolate-covered banana bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.
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Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until the chocolate has hardened.
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Serve and Enjoy:
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Once the chocolate is set, remove the bites from the refrigerator and serve. Enjoy these frozen or chilled for the best texture!
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Notes
For an extra creamy bite, you can drizzle a bit more almond butter over the chocolate before the bites set.
You can use milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste.
These banana bites can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or in the freezer for a longer shelf life.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Snack, Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Healthy, Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1-2 bites
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Chocolate Almond Butter Banana Bites
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bananas
Start by peeling the bananas and cutting them into ½-inch thick rounds. You should be able to cut about 9 to 12 slices per banana depending on the size. Arrange the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet to avoid sticking.
2. Spread the Almond Butter
Take a small spoonful of almond butter and spread it evenly over each banana slice. Be sure not to overload the slices; just a thin layer will do. The almond butter adds richness and a creamy texture that complements the sweetness of the banana.
3. Melt the Chocolate
Place dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. For extra smoothness, you can also add 1 teaspoon of coconut oil to help the chocolate melt evenly. Heat the mixture in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring each time until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
4. Drizzle the Chocolate
Once the chocolate is melted, use a spoon to drizzle it generously over the almond butter-covered banana slices. If you prefer a thicker coating, you can dip the banana slices directly into the melted chocolate. This will coat each piece more thoroughly.
5. Add Optional Toppings
While the chocolate is still soft, sprinkle chia seeds or any of your favorite toppings such as shredded coconut, crushed nuts, or dried fruits. This adds an extra crunch and additional flavor to your banana bites.
6. Chill and Serve
Once you’ve finished drizzling the chocolate and adding toppings, place the baking sheet with the banana bites into the fridge for about 30 minutes. This allows the chocolate to set and harden, creating a perfect bite-sized snack. Once chilled, the bites are ready to serve!
Advanced Techniques
1. Make Them Ahead of Time
These Chocolate Almond Butter Banana Bites are great for meal prepping. You can make a large batch and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They also freeze well. If freezing, arrange the bites in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag for long-term storage. Frozen banana bites can last up to 1 month.
2. Experiment with Nut Butters
While almond butter works wonderfully in this recipe, you can experiment with different nut butters for varied flavors. Try peanut butter for a stronger taste or cashew butter for a milder, creamier texture. You could even use sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative, which is especially helpful for those with nut allergies.
See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.
Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
1. Storing in the Refrigerator
These banana bites can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container. The cold temperature helps preserve the chocolate coating and keeps the bites fresh.
2. Freezing for Long-Term Storage
If you want to store the banana bites for longer, you can freeze them. Place the banana bites on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them for about 1-2 hours. Once they are frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to 1 month. To serve, simply remove from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating.
3. Serving Suggestions
These banana bites can be enjoyed straight from the fridge or freezer. They make for a great on-the-go snack, a pre-workout energy boost, or a healthy dessert after a meal. Pair them with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a perfect treat.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
1. Nut-Free Version
If you need a nut-free recipe, replace the almond butter with sunflower seed butter. This option is just as creamy and provides a mild flavor that complements the banana and chocolate. You can also use peanut butter if peanuts are not an issue.
2. Vegan Version
To make the recipe vegan, substitute the dark chocolate chips with dairy-free chocolate chips. Ensure that the almond butter you use is vegan-friendly, and check the coconut oil to be sure it’s plant-based.
3. Sugar-Free Version
For a sugar-free version, you can use sugar-free dark chocolate chips and substitute the almond butter with a sugar-free nut butter. Instead of the chocolate drizzle, you could opt for a drizzle of stevia or monk fruit syrup for sweetness.
FAQs About the Recipe
1. Can I use a different type of banana?
Yes, you can use any type of banana for this recipe. However, ripe bananas work best because they have the right level of sweetness and softness, which pairs well with the almond butter and chocolate. If you use under-ripe bananas, they may not have the same sweetness or creamy texture.
2. Can I add more toppings?
Absolutely! You can customize your banana bites with various toppings such as crushed walnuts, pecans, pumpkin seeds, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet and salty combination. The possibilities are endless!
3. How do I prevent the chocolate from melting too quickly?
To avoid melting, make sure you refrigerate the banana bites for at least 30 minutes after drizzling the chocolate. If you live in a particularly warm climate, you can store the bites in the freezer for a firmer consistency.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
These Chocolate Almond Butter Banana Bites are the ultimate healthy snack or dessert. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a treat that’s not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. Bananas, almond butter, and dark chocolate are all rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, making this snack both delicious and nourishing. Whether you’re having them as a quick pick-me-up, a post-workout treat, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these banana bites are a great choice.
Get creative with your toppings, experiment with different nut butters, and don’t be afraid to freeze them for long-term enjoyment. With their versatility and ease, you’ll find yourself making these Chocolate Almond Butter Banana Bites again and again.