A frozen banana-and-chocolate dessert with optional chopped nuts or coconut. Make a batch you can store appropriately and choose a serving you enjoy; it does not need to be described as guilt-free or a fat-loss food.
Yield: approximately 8 small servings, depending on banana size and the number of pieces. The previous calorie estimate was not independently verified.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe but firm bananas
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- Optional: 1/4 cup finely chopped peanuts or almonds
- Optional: 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
Method
- Line a tray with parchment paper. Peel the bananas and cut into approximately 1-inch pieces. Arrange in one layer.
- Freeze until firm enough to handle, about 1 hour depending on the freezer and piece size.
- Melt the chocolate and coconut oil gently in a microwave-safe bowl using short intervals, stirring between them, or over a double boiler. Avoid overheating and keep water out of the melted chocolate.
- Use a fork to dip each banana piece, allowing excess chocolate to drain. Return to the lined tray and add optional toppings before the coating sets.
- Freeze until the coating is firm, then transfer to a suitable covered freezer container. Use clean utensils and keep the remaining pieces frozen.
Choose Toppings for the People Eating Them
Nuts add allergens and texture. Check chocolate labels for milk, soy, or other relevant ingredients. A dark-chocolate label does not automatically mean dairy-free.
For young children, hard frozen pieces and chopped nuts can present choking concerns. Choose age-appropriate preparation and supervision rather than assuming an adult bite-size dessert is suitable.
Keep Nutrition Claims Proportionate
Chocolate percentage, banana size, toppings, and coating thickness affect the finished recipe. Antioxidant content does not make an unlimited amount beneficial, and coconut oil is not a required health ingredient outside its role in this recipe.
For context, read our antioxidant guide and flexible-eating guide.
Food Enjoyment and Fitness Can Coexist
You do not need extra exercise to compensate for dessert. VIP Fitness Center provides 30-minute private coaching in Fort Lee. Book a Free Body Diagnostic at 1620 Lemoine Ave, Suite 2 — upstairs—to discuss exercise goals, not earn permission to eat.