Banana Bark
Banana Bark is a fun and delicious treat that’s perfect for any time of day. It’s an easy-to-make snack that combines the sweetness of bananas, the richness of peanut butter, and the indulgence of chocolate. This treat is not only tasty but also a great way to enjoy healthy ingredients.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Banana Bark is a great idea for several reasons. First, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional sweets, combining fruits, nuts, and chocolate. It’s a perfect snack for kids and adults alike. Plus, it requires only a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, making it an easy treat to whip up on busy days. You can also customize it to your taste with different toppings!
How to Make Banana Bark
Ingredients:
- 2 bananas (sliced)
- ¼ cup (60 g) peanut butter
- ¾ cup (120 g) chocolate chips (extra dark)
- ½ tsp coconut oil
- Chopped peanuts and flaky sea salt (optional)
Directions:
- Peel and slice the bananas into approximately 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) thick rounds. You should get about 10-12 slices per banana, depending on their size.
- Arrange the banana slices in rows on a parchment paper-covered baking sheet or on a plate. You should get about 4 lines of slices (2 lines per banana).
- Spread an even layer of peanut butter over the banana slices.
- Place dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl with ½ teaspoon of coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate has melted.
- Spread the melted chocolate over the peanut butter banana layer, then sprinkle the top with chopped peanuts and flaky salt if desired.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer and freeze until the banana bark has set. The chocolate should have hardened. Store in an airtight food container in the freezer for up to 2 months.
How to Serve Banana Bark
Banana Bark is best served straight from the freezer. You can break or cut it into pieces and enjoy it as a snack. It is also a great addition to desserts, providing a sweet and crunchy topping for ice cream or yogurt.
How to Store Banana Bark
To keep your Banana Bark fresh, store it in an airtight container in the freezer. This will help maintain its taste and texture for up to 2 months. If you make a large batch, just take out what you need and return the rest to the freezer.
Tips to Make Banana Bark
- Make sure that your bananas are ripe but firm. Overripe bananas may become mushy.
- If you don’t have extra dark chocolate chips, you can use milk chocolate or any other type you prefer.
- Experiment with different toppings such as shredded coconut, chopped almonds, or even drizzles of caramel.
Variation
You can easily switch up this recipe. Try different nut butters like almond or cashew butter. Additionally, for a fruity twist, you can top the banana bark with sliced strawberries or raspberries before freezing.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen bananas, but they may become softer when thawed. Fresh bananas are recommended for the best texture.
Q: How long does Banana Bark last in the freezer?
A: It can last up to 2 months when stored in an airtight container.
Q: Can I make Banana Bark without peanut butter?
A: Absolutely! You can skip the peanut butter or substitute it with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
Enjoy making and snacking on your Banana Bark!
