Easy Almond Butter Banana Bites: Quick, Healthy Snack Recipe

Almond butter banana bites are a simple, nutritious dessert that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the creamy richness of almond butter. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick snack or post-workout refuel, offering a blend of healthy fats, fiber, and potassium. 

Ingredients

- 2 ripe bananas

- 1/2 cup almond butter

- 1/4 cup rolled oats (optional for added texture)

- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

- 1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional)

- Sea salt (for sprinkling)

Method of Preparation

1. Prepare the Bananas: Peel the bananas and slice them into 1-inch thick rounds.

2. Spread the Almond Butter: Place a spoonful of almond butter on top of half of the banana slices. If using cinnamon, sprinkle a little on top of the almond butter.

3. Add Toppings: If desired, add rolled oats and dark chocolate chips on top of the almond butter. 

4. Combine: Top each almond butter-covered slice with the remaining banana slices to form little sandwiches.

5. Chill (Optional): For a refreshing treat, place the banana bites in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up.

6. Serve: Remove from the fridge, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top, and enjoy!

Nutrition Value:

1. 2 ripe bananas  

  - Calories: 210  

  - Carbohydrates: 54 g  

  - Protein: 2.5 g  

  - Fat: 0.6 g  

  - Sodium: 1 mg  

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg  

  - Vitamins: High in vitamin C and vitamin B6  

  - Minerals: Good source of potassium and magnesium  

  - Nutritional benefit: Bananas provide natural sweetness and are rich in potassium, which supports heart health and muscle function.

2. 1/2 cup almond butter  

  - Calories: 400  

  - Carbohydrates: 14 g  

  - Protein: 15 g  

  - Fat: 36 g  

  - Sodium: 1 mg  

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg  

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin E and B vitamins  

  - Minerals: High in magnesium, calcium, and iron  

  - Nutritional benefit: Almond butter is a source of healthy fats and protein, promoting satiety and providing essential nutrients for energy.

3. 1/4 cup rolled oats (optional for added texture)  

  - Calories: 77  

  - Carbohydrates: 13 g  

  - Protein: 3 g  

  - Fat: 1.5 g  

  - Sodium: 1 mg  

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg  

  - Vitamins: Contains B vitamins, especially thiamin and folate  

  - Minerals: Good source of iron, magnesium, and phosphorus  

  - Nutritional benefit: Rolled oats add fiber and help stabilize blood sugar levels while contributing to digestive health.

4. 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)  

  - Calories: 200  

  - Carbohydrates: 25 g  

  - Protein: 2 g  

  - Fat: 12 g  

  - Sodium: 15 mg  

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg  

  - Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin K and some B vitamins  

  - Minerals: High in iron, magnesium, and manganese  

  - Nutritional benefit: Dark chocolate chips offer antioxidants and may enhance mood while adding rich flavor.

5. 1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional)  

  - Calories: 2  

  - Carbohydrates: 0.6 g  

  - Protein: 0.1 g  

  - Fat: 0.01 g  

  - Sodium: 0.5 mg  

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg  

  - Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin K  

  - Minerals: Provides calcium, iron, and manganese  

  - Nutritional benefit: Cinnamon may help regulate blood sugar levels and has anti-inflammatory properties.

6. Sea salt (for sprinkling)  

  - Calories: 0  

  - Carbohydrates: 0 g  

  - Protein: 0 g  

  - Fat: 0 g  

  - Sodium: 2300 mg (per teaspoon, but typically only a pinch is used)  

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg  

  - Vitamins: None  

  - Minerals: Source of sodium  

  - Nutritional benefit: Sea salt enhances flavor and can help replenish electrolytes when consumed in moderation.