I recall a moment distinctly—a late summer afternoon, the sun dipping low, when a craving for something sweet struck hard. Enter the Low Calorie Frozen Banana Snickers Bars—my answer to guilt-free indulgence! These delightful frozen treats combine creamy, naturally sweet bananas with luscious peanut butter and dark chocolate, all without the added calories of traditional candy bars. Not only do they satisfy a sweet tooth, but they’re also a quick and easy dessert option, perfect for any health-conscious foodie. Imagine sinking your teeth into one after a long day, knowing you’re treating yourself to something wholesome and nourishing. Are you ready to transform your dessert game? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why Are These Bars the Perfect Treat?
Guilt-Free Indulgence: With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a frozen dessert that feels decadent while being low in calories.
Naturally Sweetened: The ripe bananas provide natural sweetness, allowing you to enjoy a treat without any refined sugars.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: This recipe satisfies cravings for candy bars, making it a hit at parties or as a quick family dessert.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with different nut butters or toppings, ensuring there’s a flavor for everyone.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and store them in the freezer for an easy go-to snack that fits your healthy lifestyle.
Don’t forget, if you love healthy twists on classic flavors, check out our Free Blender Banana for another fantastic option!
Low Calorie Frozen Banana Snickers Ingredients
For the Base
• Ripe Bananas – Provides natural sweetness and creamy texture when frozen; opt for slightly overripe for the best flavor.
• Natural Peanut Butter – Offers creaminess and healthy fats, closely mimicking the nougat layer; choose natural varieties for less added sugar.
For the Chocolate Drizzle
• Dark Chocolate Chips – Adds a rich, indulgent taste and antioxidants; go for chocolate with 70% cocoa or higher for a healthier option.
• Coconut Oil – Ensures a smooth drizzle and glossy finish when melting the chocolate.
Optional Sweetener
• Honey or Maple Syrup – Adds a caramel-like sweetness and enhances flavor, making the bars even more indulgent.
Optional Toppings
• Crushed Peanuts – Provides a crunchy texture, resembling the peanuts in traditional Snickers bars; sprinkle over the chocolate drizzle for extra flavor and crunch.
Feel excited to whip up these Low Calorie Frozen Banana Snickers! Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering a sweet treat that feels indulgent, all while keeping it healthy.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Low Calorie Frozen Banana Snickers
Step 1: Peel & Slice Bananas
Begin by peeling 3 ripe bananas and slicing them into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Arrange the banana slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking tray, ensuring they don’t overlap. This step is crucial for uniform freezing, which helps maintain the delicious texture of your Low Calorie Frozen Banana Snickers.
Step 2: Spread Peanut Butter
Next, take your natural peanut butter and spread a thin layer onto one side of each banana slice. Aim for enough coverage to complement the banana without overwhelming it. The peanut butter acts as a delightful nougat layer in your frozen treat, so take care to distribute it evenly across all slices.
Step 3: Freeze Slices
Place the tray filled with banana and peanut butter slices into the freezer for about 1 hour. This chilling process allows the peanut butter to firm up, making it easier to drizzle the chocolate later. Check the slices once the hour has passed—your peanut butter should be set and ready for the next delicious step.
Step 4: Melt Chocolate
While your banana slices are freezing, prepare to melt your chocolate. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips with a teaspoon of coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This chocolate will give your Low Calorie Frozen Banana Snickers their indulgent coating.
Step 5: Drizzle Chocolate
Once the banana slices have adequately frozen, carefully remove the tray from the freezer. Using a spoon or a fork, drizzle the melted chocolate over each slice, ensuring an even coating. The chocolate should quickly set on the cold banana, creating a tempting exterior that resembles a classic Snickers bar.
Step 6: Add Optional Toppings
If you’d like to enhance your Low Calorie Frozen Banana Snickers, now’s the time to add some sweetness! Drizzle a touch of honey or maple syrup over the chocolate and sprinkle crushed peanuts on top for that extra crunchy texture. These optional toppings will offer a delightful contrast to the creamy banana and rich chocolate.
Step 7: Final Freeze
Return the tray to the freezer for at least 2 hours, allowing the chocolate to harden completely. After this time, your tasty creations will be solid and ready to enjoy. Keep an eye on them to ensure the chocolate is nice and firm for that perfect bite.
Step 8: Store
Once frozen, transfer your Low Calorie Frozen Banana Snickers to an airtight container, layering with parchment paper to prevent sticking. These treats can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks, providing a convenient, healthy snack. Whenever a craving strikes, you’ll have a deliciously satisfying option waiting for you!
Low Calorie Frozen Banana Snickers Variations
Customize your delightful treats and elevate their deliciousness with these fun twists!
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Nut Butter Swap: Use almond or cashew butter for a unique nutty flavor that complements the banana beautifully. Each bite brings a new taste experience!
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Topping Twists: Try shredded coconut or mini marshmallows as toppings for added texture and sweetness. They lend a playful twist, reminiscent of a tropical getaway!
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Sugar-Free Option: Use sugar-free chocolate chips to cut calories even further without sacrificing taste. Perfect for those watching their sugar intake while still indulging.
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Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of sea salt on top after drizzling with chocolate for a delightful sweet-and-salty contrast. Each bite will surprise your taste buds with a burst of flavor!
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Fruity Add-Ins: Swap in raspberries or strawberries between banana slices for a fruity surprise. The combination of flavors will make you feel like you’re enjoying summer!
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Crunchy Layers: Incorporate crushed graham crackers or rice cereal for an added layer of crunch. This variation introduces a satisfying bite that mimics a crunch bar!
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Spicy Kick: Drizzle a bit of sriracha or sprinkle cayenne pepper for those who enjoy a touch of heat. The contrast between spicy and sweet will tantalize your palate!
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Caramel Delight: Drizzle caramel sauce over the chocolate for an extra indulgent treat. It’s like elevating your dessert to a whole new level of decadence!
If you’re loving the creative spins on desserts, be sure to check out our Southern Vegetarian Casserole for another delicious and flexible recipe!
How to Store and Freeze Low Calorie Frozen Banana Snickers
Fridge: Keep your Low Calorie Frozen Banana Snickers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days for a softer texture.
Freezer: Store these frozen treats in an airtight container separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can last in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating: For a softened texture, let them sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before enjoying. Avoid microwaving, as it may melt the chocolate.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare these bars in advance for an on-the-go healthy dessert option that satisfies your cravings any time!
Expert Tips for Low Calorie Frozen Banana Snickers
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Choose Ripe Bananas: For the best flavor and sweetness, pick slightly overripe bananas as they become more naturally sweet when frozen.
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Thin Peanut Butter Layer: Spread a thin layer of peanut butter on each banana slice to avoid overpowering the dessert’s taste. Too much can lead to a sticky finish!
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Chop Chocolate for Melting: Before melting, finely chop dark chocolate chips to ensure they melt evenly. This will help you avoid any clumps in your chocolate drizzle.
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Avoid Freezer Burn: Store your Low Calorie Frozen Banana Snickers in an airtight container, with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and freezer burn.
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Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different nut butters or toppings, such as shredded coconut or mini marshmallows, to keep things exciting for every palate!
What to Serve with Low Calorie Frozen Banana Snickers
Delight in a wholesome dessert experience by balancing flavors and textures that perfectly complement your frozen treat.
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Creamy Yogurt Parfait: A scoop of vanilla yogurt adds a tangy creaminess, enhancing the flavor of your banana bars while offering a protein boost.
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Fresh Berry Medley: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries provide a burst of freshness and acidity, cutting through the richness of peanut butter and chocolate.
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Crunchy Granola: A sprinkle of granola brings a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy banana and chocolate, making every bite satisfying.
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Chilled Herbal Tea: Serve with refreshing iced mint or chamomile tea for a soothing drink that balances the sweetness of the dessert.
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Nutty Trail Mix: A side of trail mix not only echoes the nutty flavors of peanut butter but also adds texture and healthy fats to your snack.
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Decadent Dark Chocolate Coffee: Pairing your bars with a rich coffee drink topped with dark chocolate shavings creates a luscious coffee moment, perfect for a cozy after-dinner treat.
By considering these delightful pairings, you’ll create a well-rounded experience that satisfies every craving and elevates your dessert game!
Make Ahead Options
These Low Calorie Frozen Banana Snickers are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a deliciously healthy treat without the last-minute effort! You can slice and spread the peanut butter on the banana slices up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the freezer for that time frame. When you’re ready to indulge, simply drizzle the melted dark chocolate over the frozen slices, add your desired toppings, and freeze again for at least 2 hours to set. For optimal flavor and texture, ensure the banana slices are stored flat and not overlapping in the freezer. These treats can be made ahead and stored for up to 2 weeks, so you’ll always have a guilt-free snack ready to satisfy your cravings!
Low Calorie Frozen Banana Snickers Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, look for bananas with a few brown spots—these indicate they’re overripe and significantly sweeter. However, avoid any that have dark spots all over, as they may be past their prime.
How long can I store the frozen bars?
You can store your Low Calorie Frozen Banana Snickers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. If you want to keep them in the fridge instead, they’re good for about 3 days, but they will have a softer texture which some may enjoy!
How do I freeze these bars effectively?
To ensure your treats freeze flawlessly, after drizzling the chocolate, place them back on the parchment-lined tray and freeze for at least 2 hours. Afterward, transfer them to an airtight container, making sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This method helps maintain their shape and texture.
Can I make these bars for someone with allergies?
Yes, absolutely! If you have someone with nut allergies, you can replace peanut butter with sunbutter, made from sunflower seeds. Also, check your dark chocolate for any potential allergens, and opt for brands that label themselves as allergen-free if needed. Make sure to avoid using honey if you are catering to a vegan diet—maple syrup can be a great substitute instead.
What happens if my chocolate doesn’t melt smoothly?
Don’t worry! If you find that your chocolate isn’t melting as it should, try chopping the chocolate chips finely before microwaving them. Melt them in increments of 30 seconds while stirring in between until smooth. If it gets too thick, you can add another teaspoon of coconut oil to help with consistency. This step ensures each drizzle is glossy and delightful!
Guilt-Free Low Calorie Frozen Banana Snickers Bars Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel 3 ripe bananas and slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Arrange slices on a parchment-lined baking tray.
- Spread a thin layer of natural peanut butter onto one side of each banana slice.
- Place the tray in the freezer for about 1 hour until the peanut butter is firm.
- Melt dark chocolate chips with coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals.
- Drizzle the melted chocolate over each frozen banana slice.
- Add honey or maple syrup and crushed peanuts on top if desired.
- Return the tray to the freezer for at least 2 hours until chocolate is hardened.
- Transfer the bars to an airtight container layered with parchment paper for storage.
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