Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it captures all the flavors of a banana split without the mess of melting ice cream. Each bite is sweet, creamy, crunchy, and festive, making them perfect for parties, holidays, or just a quick snack. They’re simple to prepare and look adorable on a serving tray.
Ingredients
(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
Banana
Dark Chocolate Melting Chips
Peanuts, chopped
Whipped Cream
Sprinkles (red, white, & blue)
Cherries, with stems
Directions
- I peel the banana and slice it into bite-sized rounds, about 1 inch thick.
- I melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring until smooth.
- I dip one end of each banana slice into the melted chocolate.
- I immediately dip the chocolate-coated side into chopped peanuts for a crunchy layer.
- I place the bananas on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate until the chocolate sets, about 20 minutes.
- Just before serving, I top each bite with a small swirl of whipped cream.
- I finish with red, white, and blue sprinkles and press a cherry with a stem on top.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 12 banana bites, depending on the size of the banana. I usually spend 15 minutes preparing and about 20 minutes chilling, so they’re ready in 35 minutes.
Variations
Sometimes I use white or milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate. I’ve also rolled the chocolate-dipped bananas in coconut flakes or crushed cookies for a different texture. For a healthier version, I skip the whipped cream and sprinkles and just enjoy the chocolate and nut coating. I also like trying different nuts, like almonds or pistachios, instead of peanuts.
Storage/Reheating
I store these bites in the fridge for up to 1 day since the bananas brown quickly. If I want to keep them longer, I freeze them and serve as a frozen treat. I don’t reheat them these are best chilled or frozen.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, I prepare them a few hours in advance and keep them chilled until serving.
Can I freeze Banana Split Bites?
Yes, I freeze them and eat them straight from the freezer for a cold, refreshing snack.
What kind of chocolate works best?
I like using melting chips or candy melts since they coat smoothly and set firmly.
Can I use different toppings instead of peanuts?
Absolutely, I sometimes use crushed Oreos, pretzels, or coconut.
How do I keep the bananas from browning?
I dip them in chocolate quickly after slicing and keep them refrigerated until serving.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, I use dairy-free chocolate and coconut whipped cream.
Do I need to refrigerate after dipping in chocolate?
Yes, chilling helps the chocolate set and keeps the bites firm.
Can I use maraschino cherries without stems?
Yes, but I prefer cherries with stems because they look more like a classic banana split.
Can I use strawberries instead of bananas?
Yes, strawberries dipped in chocolate and topped with whipped cream are a delicious variation.
How should I serve them at a party?
I arrange them on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing, or place them in mini cupcake liners.
Conclusion
Banana Split Bites are one of my favorite no-bake desserts because they’re playful, delicious, and easy to customize. I love the balance of chocolate, fruit, and crunchy nuts, topped with whipped cream and a cherry for that classic banana split feel. Whether chilled or frozen, they’re always a hit at gatherings.
PrintBanana Split Bites
Banana Split Bites are a playful, no-bake dessert featuring banana slices dipped in chocolate, coated with peanuts, and topped with whipped cream, sprinkles, and cherries for a fun bite-sized treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 bites
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake, Refrigeration
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 banana
Dark chocolate melting chips
Chopped peanuts
Whipped cream
Sprinkles (red, white, & blue)
Cherries with stems
Instructions
- Peel the banana and slice into 1-inch bite-sized rounds.
- Melt dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring until smooth.
- Dip one end of each banana slice into the melted chocolate.
- Immediately dip the chocolate-coated side into chopped peanuts.
- Place bananas on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for 20 minutes until chocolate sets.
- Just before serving, top each bite with a swirl of whipped cream.
- Finish with sprinkles and press a cherry with stem on top.
Notes
Swap dark chocolate for white or milk chocolate for variety.
Use coconut flakes, crushed cookies, or pretzels instead of peanuts.
Freeze for a cold, refreshing snack.
Bananas brown quickly make close to serving time or freeze.
For dairy-free, use vegan chocolate and coconut whipped cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg