Easy Banana Strawberry Chocolate Peanut Butter Bark: A Delicious Guilt-Free Treat
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!As a dessert enthusiast who also strives to maintain a healthy lifestyle, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that satisfy my sweet tooth without compromising on nutrition. One of my absolute favorite treats is Banana Strawberry Chocolate Peanut Butter Bark. This easy-to-make dessert combines the richness of dark chocolate with the creamy goodness of peanut butter, topped with the fresh flavors of strawberries and bananas. It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect guilt-free indulgence.
Banana Strawberry Chocolate Peanut Butter Bark Ingredient Notes
- Dark Chocolate Chips or Chunks: Dark chocolate is a healthier option compared to milk chocolate, offering a rich flavor and numerous antioxidants.
- Creamy Peanut Butter: Adds a creamy texture and delicious nutty flavor. Choose a natural peanut butter without added sugars for a healthier option.
- Fresh Strawberries and Banana: These fresh fruits add a burst of natural sweetness and a dose of vitamins. Make sure to slice them thinly for the best texture.
- Chopped Roasted Peanuts (Optional): For an extra crunch and nutty flavor, you can sprinkle some chopped roasted peanuts on top.
- Sea Salt: A pinch of sea salt enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Tips for Making the Best Bark
- Melt Chocolate Evenly: Use a microwave-safe bowl to melt the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring each time. Alternatively, use a double boiler to melt it gently on the stove.
- Spread Smoothly: Use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate evenly on the parchment paper to ensure a consistent thickness.
- Drizzle Peanut Butter: Warm the peanut butter slightly to make it easier to drizzle over the chocolate. Use a spoon or a piping bag for more control.
- Fresh Fruit Preparation: Thinly slice the strawberries and bananas. To prevent bananas from browning, lightly brush them with lemon juice before placing them on the chocolate.
- Chill Properly: Allow the bark to set in the refrigerator for at least an hour. Fresh fruit may release some moisture, so ensure the bark is fully chilled before breaking it into pieces.
Step-by-step guide to making banana strawberry chocolate peanut butter bark:
1. Arrange banana and strawberry slices.
2. Spread peanut butter.
3. Add a layer of melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed nuts and pinch of salt.
4. Cut into pieces after setting.
Substitutes
- Chocolate: Substitute dark chocolate with vegan or vegan white chocolate if preferred.
- Nut Butter: Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter can be used instead of peanut butter.
- Fruits: Use other fresh fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or kiwi slices for variety.
- Nuts: Swap roasted peanuts with almonds, walnuts, or pecans for a different crunch.
Serving Suggestions
- Dessert Plate: Serve the bark pieces on a decorative plate for a beautiful presentation at parties or gatherings.
- Yogurt Parfait: Crumble some bark over a bowl of Greek yogurt for a delicious and healthy parfait.
- Smoothie Bowl: Add broken pieces of bark to your favorite smoothie bowl for extra flavor and texture.
Storage
Store the bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Due to the fresh fruit, it’s best enjoyed soon after making. If you prefer a longer shelf life, consider using freeze-dried fruits instead of fresh ones.
Frequently Asked Questions about Banana Strawberry Chocolate Peanut Butter Bark
Q: Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh? A: Frozen fruit can release too much moisture, making the bark soggy. It’s best to use fresh or freeze-dried fruits.
Q: How long does the bark last? A: When made with fresh fruit, the bark lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, use freeze-dried fruits.
Q: Can I use a different type of chocolate? A: Yes, you can use different type of chocolate based on your preference.
Q: Can I add other toppings to the bark? A: Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. You can add shredded coconut, chia seeds, dried fruits, or even a drizzle of caramel for extra flavor and texture.
Q: How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing while melting? A: Make sure your bowl and utensils are completely dry before melting the chocolate, as any moisture can cause it to seize. Melt the chocolate slowly in short intervals in the microwave or use a double boiler to control the temperature better.
Q: Can I make this bark vegan? A: Yes, to make the bark vegan, use dairy-free dark chocolate and a plant-based peanut butter. Ensure that any additional toppings you use, such as roasted peanuts, are also vegan-friendly.
Equipment
Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler
Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Knife and cutting board
Banana Strawberry Chocolate Peanut Butter Bark is a delightful and healthy dessert that combines rich flavors and fresh ingredients into a simple, no-bake treat. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a party dessert, or a creative way to enjoy your favorite fruits, this bark is sure to become a favorite. Try it out and enjoy the perfect balance of chocolatey goodness, creamy peanut butter, and refreshing fruit flavors!
More dessert recipes:
Healthy Banana Bread – Gluten-free and Sugar-free
Simple and Easy Chocolate Muffins
Banana Strawberry Chocolate Peanut Butter Bark
Enjoy a healthy and delightful treat with Banana Strawberry Chocolate Peanut Butter Bark. This easy recipe combines dark chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and fresh fruits for a perfect guilt-free dessert
Ingredients
- 1 cups dark chocolate chips or chunks
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, thinly sliced
- 1 small banana, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt
- Lemon juice (to prevent banana slices from browning)
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Thinly slice the strawberries and banana. To prevent the banana slices from browning, lightly brush them with lemon juice.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth and fully melted. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate using a double boiler on the stove.
- Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Warm the peanut butter slightly in the microwave (about 20-30 seconds) to make it more pourable. Drizzle the peanut butter over the chocolate layer in a zigzag pattern.
- Arrange the sliced strawberries and bananas evenly over the chocolate and peanut butter. Sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts (if using) and a pinch of sea salt over the top.
- Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 1 hour, or until the chocolate is completely set. Note that fresh fruit will release some moisture, so the bark might not be as firm as when using dried fruit.
- Once the bark is set, remove it from the refrigerator. Break it into pieces of your desired size.
- Store the bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The fresh fruit will make the bark more perishable, so it’s best enjoyed soon after making.
Notes
- For added texture, you can drizzle a little more melted chocolate over the fruit toppings before chilling.
- Ensure the fruit slices are not too thick, as they may add too much moisture to the bark.
