The perfect bite-sized indulgence, these Banana Split Bites are a refreshing and fun twist on a classic dessert. Each skewer brings together a tropical trifecta of banana, pineapple, and strawberry, dipped in silky chocolate and rolled in crunchy chopped peanuts. It’s a healthy-ish treat with a playful presentation that makes it just as much fun to eat as it is to serve. Whether you’re throwing a summer party, looking for an after-school snack, or simply craving something sweet and fruity, these bites check every box. They’re quick to prep, freezer-friendly, and guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike. You won’t believe how easy and satisfying these skewered delights are to whip up!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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3 ripe bananas
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1/4 lb fresh pineapple, cored
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6 strawberries
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1 cup dipping chocolate (milk or dark)
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1/4 cup chopped peanuts
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12 popsicle sticks or wooden skewers
Directions:
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Cut each strawberry in half.
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For each strawberry half, cut a similarly sized piece of banana and pineapple.
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Skewer the fruit in this order: pineapple on the bottom, banana in the middle, strawberry on top.
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Place the assembled fruit skewers in the freezer for 10 minutes.
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Meanwhile, line a tray with parchment or wax paper and set aside. Place chopped peanuts on a small plate.
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Melt the dipping chocolate by microwaving it in a heatproof bowl for 30 seconds at a time, stirring in between, until smooth.
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Remove fruit from the freezer. Dip the bottom half of each skewer in melted chocolate, then immediately roll in chopped peanuts.
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Place on the prepared tray and let set. Serve immediately or chill until ready to enjoy.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: Approx. 110 kcal per bite | Servings: 12 servings
A Fun Twist on a Classic Favorite: Banana Split Bites
Banana splits have long been a beloved dessert, bringing back memories of summer nights, old-fashioned diners, and indulgent sweet treats. But what if we told you there’s a way to enjoy the flavors of a banana split in a healthier, bite-sized, and much less messy form? Enter Banana Split Bites—a creative and refreshing take on the classic dessert that delivers all the flavor without the guilt.
These Banana Split Bites combine the fruity trio of bananas, pineapples, and strawberries with the indulgent touch of melted chocolate and a sprinkle of chopped peanuts. Served on a stick, they’re not only adorable but incredibly practical for parties, kid-friendly snacking, and anyone looking for a healthier sweet fix.
The Origins of the Banana Split and Why We Still Love It
The banana split dates back to the early 1900s and is credited to a young pharmacist named David Strickler in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. He created the now-iconic dessert by slicing a banana lengthwise and topping it with ice cream, sauces, whipped cream, and cherries. It became a sensation and has remained a staple in American dessert culture ever since.
Banana Split Bites take the nostalgic essence of this dessert and give it a modern, health-conscious makeover. Instead of scoops of ice cream, these bites use real fruit, and instead of a bowl, they’re served conveniently on a skewer. The best part? They’re freezer-friendly, customizable, and made with minimal ingredients.
Ingredients That Do More Than Just Taste Good
One of the key highlights of this recipe is how it makes nutritious ingredients taste indulgent. Each component of the Banana Split Bites brings something to the table—literally and nutritionally.
Bananas are high in potassium, vitamin B6, and fiber. They help regulate blood pressure, support muscle function, and offer a natural energy boost.
Strawberries are rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and manganese. They’re low in calories but high in nutrients, helping support immune function and skin health.
Pineapples are packed with digestive enzymes like bromelain and are a great source of vitamin C. Their tangy sweetness balances out the richer flavors of chocolate and nuts.
Dipping chocolate, while a treat, can actually be beneficial if you opt for dark chocolate. Dark chocolate contains flavonoids that may help reduce inflammation and improve heart health when consumed in moderation.
Peanuts add a touch of crunch and saltiness, creating that sweet-and-salty contrast we all love. They’re also a good source of protein and healthy fats.
Together, these ingredients make for a satisfying, balanced snack that checks all the boxes: fruity, chocolaty, crunchy, and just sweet enough.
Why Banana Split Bites Are the Perfect Snack or Dessert
There’s a lot to love about this recipe, but here’s why it truly stands out:
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No baking required: Perfect for hot days when you want a cool treat without heating the oven.
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Portion-controlled: Since each skewer is an individual serving, it’s easy to keep track of portions.
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Quick to assemble: You can prepare these in under 20 minutes, making them ideal for last-minute guests.
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Kid-friendly: Kids love the vibrant colors and the stick presentation. Plus, you can get them involved in the dipping process for a fun activity.
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Elegant enough for parties: These aren’t just for kids—they look beautiful on a dessert tray and can be served at brunches, potlucks, showers, and BBQs.
Creative Variations to Make It Your Own
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some creative twists you can try:
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Add a drizzle: After dipping in chocolate and nuts, drizzle white chocolate or caramel on top for extra flair.
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Swap the fruit: Try using mango, kiwi, blueberries, or raspberries depending on what’s in season.
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Go nut-free: Use shredded coconut, granola, or crushed pretzels as a topping for those with nut allergies.
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Make it vegan: Use dairy-free chocolate and skip the traditional milk chocolate for a completely plant-based version.
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Add marshmallows: Slide on a mini marshmallow between the fruit for a s’mores-inspired twist.
This adaptability makes it a staple recipe in any household—whether you’re catering to picky eaters, dietary restrictions, or just want to shake things up.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
Presentation can elevate even the simplest recipe, and Banana Split Bites lend themselves well to creativity.
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Party trays: Line them up on a white platter with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or cocoa for visual appeal.
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Dipping bar: Set up a DIY station with various toppings—chopped almonds, rainbow sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or toasted coconut.
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Gift it: Wrap a few in parchment and tie with a ribbon for a sweet edible gift or party favor.
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Holiday themes: Use red and green fruit for Christmas, heart-shaped strawberry slices for Valentine’s Day, or a drizzle of colored candy melts for a birthday party.
These simple serving ideas make the bites versatile enough for casual snacking or elegant entertaining.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Banana Split Bites can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. Here’s how to get the best results:
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Freezer storage: After assembling and dipping, let the chocolate set, then transfer the bites to an airtight container lined with parchment paper. They’ll keep for up to a week.
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Fridge storage: If planning to serve within a day, store them in the fridge and cover lightly to prevent moisture build-up.
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Avoid soggy fruit: Don’t let the skewers sit out too long before freezing or refrigerating; the cold shock helps maintain the fruit’s texture and prevents browning.
Great for All Ages and Occasions
Banana Split Bites are a universal hit, no matter the age group or occasion.
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Toddlers and young kids: Easy to eat, fun to look at, and free from processed sugars if you use dark chocolate.
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Teens and tweens: These make a great after-school snack or addition to lunchboxes.
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Adults: Perfect for office potlucks, wellness events, or low-guilt sweet cravings.
Whether you’re making them for your kids, your guests, or yourself, they’re always a crowd-pleaser.
Nutritional Breakdown (Approximate per serving)
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Calories: 110 kcal
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Protein: 1.5g
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Fat: 4.5g
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Carbs: 15g
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Sugar: 10g
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Fiber: 1.5g
This breakdown may vary depending on your choice of chocolate and the size of your fruit pieces, but overall, it’s a light dessert option compared to traditional banana splits loaded with ice cream and syrup.
Perfect Pairings and What to Serve With Banana Split Bites
Although they shine on their own, here are some ways to serve Banana Split Bites as part of a larger menu:
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With a smoothie bar: Add them as a fun side to a fresh fruit or green smoothie breakfast spread.
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Alongside coffee or tea: Their fruity and nutty flavor pairs well with iced tea, herbal infusions, or cold brew coffee.
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As part of a dessert board: Combine them with mini cheesecakes, chocolate-dipped pretzels, and macarons for a visually stunning and delicious spread.
These pairings make them suitable for everything from casual family nights to elegant gatherings.
Conclusion
Banana Split Bites are more than just a fun recipe—they’re a healthier way to enjoy dessert, an easy-to-make crowd-pleaser, and a versatile treat suitable for all occasions. Their simple ingredients, vibrant colors, and nostalgic flavors make them a standout dish on any table. Whether you’re hosting a party, prepping snacks for your kids, or just satisfying a craving without the guilt, these bites deliver on flavor, fun, and freshness.
Try them once, and you’ll quickly see why Banana Split Bites deserve a permanent spot in your dessert rotation.