Viral Chocolate Banana Bark is the ultimate healthy sweet treat! It combines three simple ingredients—bananas, creamy peanut butter, and dark chocolate—layered together with a pinch of flaky sea salt for extra flavor. This no-bake dessert is quick to make, and with the goodness of bananas and peanut butter, it’s as nutritious as it is delicious. A perfect healthy snack that the whole family will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chocolate banana bark is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and nutrients. The bananas provide a natural sweetness, while the peanut butter adds a creamy richness, and the dark chocolate brings decadence to the mix. The sea salt enhances the flavors, making it a perfect balance of sweet and salty. Plus, it’s gluten-free and requires just a few minutes of prep time, making it an ideal treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
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2 medium semi-ripe bananas
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½ cup + 2 tablespoons drippy, creamy peanut butter
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1.5 cups dark chocolate chips
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1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional)
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Flaky sea salt (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Step 1: Prep the Bananas
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Line a medium-sized baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Peel the bananas and slice them into ⅓-inch thick slices. For a better fit, slice them on a slight angle. Try to make the slices as even in size as possible.
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Arrange the banana slices on the lined baking sheet, making sure they are touching each other. This will help the bark hold together better when frozen.
Step 2: Add Peanut Butter
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Spread the peanut butter evenly over the banana slices to cover them completely. Use a rubber spatula to help spread the peanut butter. If the peanut butter is too thick, heat it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften it.
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Place the baking sheet with the bananas and peanut butter into the freezer for 20 minutes to set.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
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After the peanut butter layer has set, place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe dish. Heat them in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until mostly melted. Stir until fully melted.
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If you’d like, add a teaspoon of coconut oil to the melted chocolate for a smoother texture.
Step 4: Pour and Spread the Chocolate
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Remove the baking sheet from the freezer and pour the melted chocolate over the banana slices in an even layer.
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Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired. This is also the point where you can add extra toppings like crushed nuts, sprinkles, or dried fruit.
Step 5: Freeze the Bark
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Return the bark to the freezer and let it set for at least 90 minutes to 2 hours. The longer it stays in the freezer, the firmer the bark will become.
Step 6: Break and Serve
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Once the bark is fully set, remove it from the freezer. Flip it over and peel off the parchment paper.
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Break the bark into large pieces and serve.
Servings and Timing
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Chill Time: 2 hours
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Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
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Yield: 12 servings
Variations
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Nutty Addition: Add chopped almonds, walnuts, or peanuts on top of the chocolate layer for extra crunch.
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Coconut Lovers: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the melted chocolate for a tropical twist.
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Dried Fruit: Top with dried cranberries, cherries, or raisins for a sweet contrast to the chocolate.
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White Chocolate: Swap dark chocolate for white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store any leftover banana bark in a freezer-safe container in the freezer for up to 1 week.
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Reheating: There’s no need to reheat this bark, as it’s best enjoyed directly from the freezer.
FAQs
Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes, you can substitute almond butter or any nut butter of your choice. Just make sure it’s creamy and drippy for easy spreading.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor. However, the dark chocolate pairs well with the bananas and peanut butter for a more balanced treat.
How do I make sure the banana slices are even?
To ensure your banana slices are even, try using a sharp knife and aim for ⅓-inch slices. It also helps to cut the bananas on a slight angle so they fit together better.
Can I use ripe bananas?
For the best texture, use semi-ripe bananas. Overripe bananas can become mushy and difficult to handle in the bark.
How long do I need to freeze the bark?
The bark should freeze for at least 90 minutes to 2 hours to allow the chocolate and peanut butter layers to set completely.
Can I make this bark in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the bark ahead of time and store it in the freezer. It will keep for up to 1 week in a freezer-safe container.
What kind of chocolate works best for this recipe?
Dark chocolate is recommended for its rich flavor, but you can also use milk chocolate or white chocolate depending on your preference.
Can I make this bark without coconut oil?
The coconut oil is optional but adds a smooth texture to the melted chocolate. If you prefer, you can skip it without affecting the final result.
What other toppings can I add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add sprinkles, crushed graham crackers, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgence.
Can I use a different nut butter?
Yes, you can use cashew butter, sunflower seed butter, or any other nut butter of your choice.
Can I store this bark in the fridge instead of the freezer?
While it’s best stored in the freezer to maintain its texture, you can store it in the fridge for a softer bark if preferred. It will last longer in the freezer, though.
Conclusion
Viral Chocolate Banana Bark is a simple, yet irresistible treat that’s both healthy and indulgent. With just three ingredients, you can create a satisfying snack that’s rich in flavor and nutrients. The combination of creamy peanut butter, dark chocolate, and bananas makes for a winning combination, and the addition of sea salt brings everything together. Perfect for a quick dessert, snack, or even a post-workout treat, this bark is sure to become a new favorite!
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Viral Chocolate Banana Bark
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Viral Chocolate Banana Bark is the perfect healthy sweet treat made with just 3 simple ingredients: banana, peanut butter, and dark chocolate. It’s the ultimate no-bake snack that combines the richness of chocolate and peanut butter with the freshness of bananas. Plus, a sprinkle of sea salt adds the perfect finishing touch. Easy to make, fun to eat, and totally irresistible!
Ingredients
2 medium semi-ripe bananas
½ cup + 2 tablespoons drippy, creamy peanut butter
1.5 cups dark chocolate chips
1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional)
Flaky sea salt (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a medium-sized baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal of the bark once it’s set.
2. Slice the Bananas
Peel the bananas and slice them into ⅓-inch thick rounds. For better fitting, slice them at a slight angle to ensure they hold together when frozen. Arrange the banana slices in a rectangular shape on the parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they are close together but not overlapping.
3. Add Peanut Butter
Spread the peanut butter evenly over the banana slices using a rubber spatula. If your peanut butter is too thick, microwave it for 10-15 seconds to make it easier to spread. Once spread, place the sheet in the freezer for 20 minutes to set the peanut butter layer.
4. Melt the Chocolate
After the peanut butter layer has set, place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe dish. Heat the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted. Add coconut oil for extra smoothness, if desired.
5. Add the Chocolate
Take the bark out of the freezer, and pour the melted chocolate evenly over the banana-peanut butter layer. Optionally, sprinkle with flaky sea salt for a little extra flavor. You can also add other toppings at this stage, such as crushed nuts or a drizzle of honey.
6. Freeze to Set
Return the bark to the freezer for at least 90 minutes, or up to 2 hours, until everything is fully set.
7. Break the Bark
Once the bark is ready, remove it from the freezer and peel the parchment paper off. Flip the bark over, and break it into large pieces.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately, or store any leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to one week.
Notes
Bananas: Use semi-ripe bananas that are firm but not too ripe to avoid mushiness.
Peanut Butter: If your peanut butter is too thick, heat it for a few seconds in the microwave to make it spreadable.
Freezing Time: Ensure the bark freezes long enough to set the peanut butter and chocolate layers. 90 minutes is typically ideal.
Storage: Keep leftovers in the freezer in a sealed container for up to 1 week.
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
