If you’re looking for a fun and delicious snack that feels like a nostalgic twist on a classic sandwich, this Frozen Peanut Butter and Jelly Banana Bites Recipe is exactly what you need to try next. Packed with creamy peanut butter, sweet jelly, and fresh banana slices all dipped in rich dark chocolate, these little bites deliver a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you need a cool treat on a warm day or a delightful party appetizer, this recipe is as simple to make as it is irresistible to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how just a few simple, high-quality ingredients come together to create such a standout treat. Each item plays a crucial role, adding to the overall texture, taste, and appearance of these banana bites, making every component feel essential and elevated.
- Dark chocolate (1.25 cups): Ghirardelli 60% cacao chips melt smoothly and create a beautiful, rich coating.
- Coconut oil (2 tsp): Adds shine and helps the chocolate harden properly for that perfect snap.
- Peanut butter (1/3 cup plus 15 tsp): Creamy peanut butter enriches the filling and adds that classic nutty flavor.
- Sea salt (pinch): Just the right hint to balance sweetness and enhance flavor.
- Banana (1, cut into 1/2-inch rounds): Fresh and naturally sweet, it’s the star of this recipe.
- Strawberry jelly (16 tsp): Brings a burst of fruity sweetness that complements peanut butter beautifully.
- Crushed peanuts (1/4 cup): Adds crunch and helps the coating stick for a satisfying bite.
How to Make Frozen Peanut Butter and Jelly Banana Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Banana Slices
Begin by slicing your banana into 1/2-inch thick rounds. This size is perfect because it gives you enough surface to layer the peanut butter and jelly, while still being easy to pop in your mouth. Lay the slices out on a parchment-lined tray so they’re ready for the next step.
Step 2: Layer Peanut Butter and Jelly
On half of your banana slices, spread about one teaspoon of creamy peanut butter. On the other half, spread an equal amount of strawberry jelly. These layers create the classic PB&J flavor combination but with a fresh twist thanks to the banana base.
Step 3: Assemble the Bites
Sandwich the peanut butter and jelly slices together with the plain banana rounds, pressing gently so the flavors meld but the banana doesn’t squish too much. This step transforms your ingredients into bite-sized sandwiches ready for the chocolate coating.
Step 4: Make the Chocolate Coating
Melt the dark chocolate chips with the coconut oil in a double boiler or microwave, stirring frequently until smooth and glossy. Adding coconut oil helps the chocolate set up with a lovely shine and slight snap when fully frozen.
Step 5: Dip and Coat
Using a fork, dip each banana sandwich into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is completely covered. Let excess drip off before placing it on the parchment paper. Immediately sprinkle crushed peanuts over the chocolate for extra flavor, texture, and that irresistibly nutty crunch.
Step 6: Freeze Until Firm
Transfer the chocolate-coated banana bites to the freezer for about 20 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully hardened. This freezing step also firms up the banana inside, creating a delightful contrast between creamy and crunchy textures.
How to Serve Frozen Peanut Butter and Jelly Banana Bites Recipe
Garnishes
For an elegant touch, sprinkle a tiny bit of sea salt or drizzle some white chocolate over the top right before serving. These garnishes elevate the appearance and bring out the complex flavors in the peanut butter and jelly banana bites.
Side Dishes
Pair your Frozen Peanut Butter and Jelly Banana Bites Recipe with a chilled glass of milk, iced tea, or even a fresh fruit salad. These combinations create a balanced snack or light dessert that keeps things refreshing and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging these banana bites on a decorative platter lined with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for gatherings. You can also stack them on skewers for a fun party-friendly finger food platter that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover banana bites in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain their freshness and texture. Keeping them chilled ensures the chocolate stays crisp and the banana remains at its best.
Freezing
This recipe is perfect for making ahead since it freezes beautifully. Make a batch, freeze them individually on a tray first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for easy snacking throughout the week.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat these treats — they’re best enjoyed cold or straight from the freezer. If you prefer them slightly softer, just let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before digging in.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?
Absolutely! Natural peanut butter works well, but keep in mind it might be a bit less smooth, which can affect the texture slightly. It still tastes amazing and offers a more wholesome option.
What type of bananas work best for this recipe?
Ripe but firm bananas are ideal. You want them sweet for flavor but sturdy enough to hold their shape during assembly and freezing without getting mushy.
Is there a way to make these bites nut-free?
Yes! You can substitute sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter for the peanut butter and use seed-based or fruit spreads instead of jelly to keep the flavors exciting and allergy-friendly.
Can I use other types of jelly or jam?
Definitely! While strawberry jelly is classic here, raspberry, grape, or even apricot jam can offer delicious variations on flavor to suit your preference.
How long will these banana bites stay fresh in the freezer?
Stored properly in an airtight container, these frozen treats will stay fresh for up to one month, giving you plenty of time to enjoy them whenever the craving strikes.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Frozen Peanut Butter and Jelly Banana Bites Recipe a try because it’s one of those simple yet unforgettable treats that brighten up any day. It’s versatile, easy to make, and guaranteed to satisfy both your sweet tooth and your love of classic flavors reinvented in a fun way. Happy snacking!
Print
Frozen Peanut Butter and Jelly Banana Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes (freezing time included)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Frozen Peanut Butter and Jelly Banana Bites are a delightful and healthy treat combining ripe banana rounds layered with creamy peanut butter and sweet strawberry jelly, all coated in rich dark chocolate and crunchy crushed peanuts. Perfect as a quick snack or a fun dessert, these bites offer a satisfying mix of flavors and textures that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Ingredients
Chocolate Coating
- 1.25 cups dark chocolate (60% cacao chips recommended)
- 2 tsp coconut oil
Peanut Butter and Jelly Filling
- 1/3 cup peanut butter (creamy preferred)
- Pinch of sea salt
- 15 tsp peanut butter (Jif creamy preferred)
- 16 tsp strawberry jelly
Bananas and Topping
- 1 banana, cut into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 1/4 cup peanuts, finely crushed
Instructions
- Prepare the bananas: Slice the banana into 1/2-inch thick rounds and set aside on a plate or tray.
- Melt the chocolate coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and 2 teaspoons of coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until fully melted and smooth.
- Make the peanut butter filling: Mix 1/3 cup of creamy peanut butter with a pinch of sea salt to enhance flavor and create a smooth, slightly salted filling.
- Assemble the bites: Spread about 1 teaspoon of the peanut butter filling on one banana slice. Top with a small amount (about 1 teaspoon) of strawberry jelly. Then, place another banana slice on top to create a sandwich. Repeat this process until all banana rounds are paired.
- Coat with peanut butter: Spread 15 teaspoons of creamy peanut butter on the top of each banana sandwich. This layer helps the crushed peanuts stick better.
- Dip and coat: Using a fork or toothpick, dip each peanut butter and jelly banana sandwich into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Add crushed peanuts: Immediately after dipping in chocolate, sprinkle or press crushed peanuts onto the chocolate coating to adhere before it sets.
- Freeze the bites: Place the coated banana bites on a parchment-lined tray or plate. Freeze them for at least 20 minutes or until the chocolate is set and the bites are firm.
- Serve and store: Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a week.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm bananas for best texture; overripe bananas may become too soft after freezing.
- For a smoother chocolate melt, coconut oil is essential as it helps harden the coating properly.
- If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute peanut butter and peanuts with sunflower seed butter and seeds.
- You can swap strawberry jelly for other flavors such as grape or raspberry for variety.
- Serve directly from the freezer to enjoy the bite-sized frozen snack.
