What if you could indulge in a rich, chocolatey pleasure that fulfills your sweet tooth, assists you in achieving your health goals, and can be completed in just five minutes with only three simple, plant-based ingredients?
It still blows my mind how quickly I was able to make these tiny frozen banana chocolate bites. It was a hot afternoon, and I had a single banana way too ripe, some handfuls of ground walnuts, and hardly any vegan dark chocolate left in the pantry. I melted the chocolate, dipped banana slices, sprinkled with cinnamon and nuts, plopped them into the freezer—and by mistake created one of my all-time favorite healthy vegan desserts.
This is one of those easy vegan desserts with few ingredients that you can make in minutes, but it's something that's so much more indulgent-tasting. It's a 3-ingredient vegan dessert that's naturally sweetened—no added sugar needed—and entirely plant-based. Bananas provide potassium and vitamin B6, nuts provide healthy fats and magnesium, and dark chocolate provides antioxidants and deep, indulgent flavor. It's a dessert that truly loves your body back.
These healthy vegan desserts are perfect for all: whether you're trying to lose weight, stabilize blood sugar, avoid gluten, or simply require healthy vegan dessert recipes that won't require a culinary degree. If you're on the lookout for vegan healthy desserts for weight loss, or simply something that is part of your clean-eating regimen, this one's a no-brainer. It's also a crowd-pleaser for kids, is a fantastic after-school snack, and plays beautifully into a 5-minute vegan desserts roundup.
So if you've been searching for easy, gluten-free and vegan desserts, this one is perfect for you. It's a game-changer, trust me—you'll be buying bananas just to freeze. So you can make these over and over.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas (preferably organic, deeply speckled for natural sweetness)
- 3 or 4 tablespoons high-quality vegan couverture dark chocolate (70–80% cacao)
- (e.g., Valrhona, Guittard, or single-origin chocolate for better temper and flavor)
- 2 tablespoons crushed sprouted or dry-roasted walnuts
- (for enhanced crunch, nutrition, and flavor depth)
Elevated Optional Additions
- 1 teaspoon organic nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew) – swirled into chocolate or dolloped on banana slices
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened, fine shredded coconut – for texture and natural sweetness
- Pinch of flaky sea salt (like Maldon or fleur de sel) – balances sweetness and enhances chocolate flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon – adds warmth without bitterness
- 1 tablespoon chopped toasted almonds or hazelnuts – for added crunch and aroma
- Naturally dyed vegan sprinkles – optional fun topping, free of artificial colors
🔧 Recommended Kitchen Tools (with Trusted Brands)
These tools make prep faster, cleaner, and freezer-friendly—perfect for anyone craving a healthy, low-effort dessert.
Note:
Some links below are Amazon affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. These recommendations remain unbiased and focused on quality and value.
1. Small Sharp Knife
Essential for slicing bananas cleanly and evenly.
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2. Cutting Board
Choose a non-slip board that won’t dull your knives.
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3. Microwave-Safe Bowl
Use a heat-safe glass or ceramic bowl for melting chocolate.
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4. Double Boiler (or Heatproof Bowl + Saucepan)
Great for gentle, controlled chocolate melting.
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5. Parchment Paper
Prevents sticking and makes clean-up fast.
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- Kirkland Signature (Costco)
6. Baking Tray or Sheet Pan
A flat, sturdy surface for freezing banana slices.
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7. Spoon or Dipping Fork
Helps dip banana slices without mess.
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8. Small Bowls or Ramekins
Perfect for portioning out toppings like nuts, coconut, or sprinkles.
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9. Freezer-Safe Airtight Container
Keeps bites fresh and avoids freezer burn.
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Optional Tools for Elevated Finishing Touches
10. Silicone Spatula
Ideal for scraping every bit of melted chocolate cleanly.
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11. Pastry Brush
Great for applying nut butter or adding a light chocolate drizzle.
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12. Mini Ice Cream Scoop (if serving with vegan ice cream)
For that polished, plated presentation.
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🧊 Preparation Method: Frozen Banana Chocolate Bites with Walnut Crunch
Step 1: Slice the Bananas
- Start with two of the bananas that are fully ripe—the brown spotted ones on the outside. That's when their natural sugars are highest and they're bite-able even if they're frozen.
- Peel the fruit and then slice it into rounds that are approximately half an inch thick. Too thin, and they'll freeze solid like coins. Too big, and you won't be able to bite into them straight out of the freezer.
- Place the slices out individually on a parchment-lined tray. Don't stack them—that way they won't freeze into a solid hard block later.
💡 Tip: When bananas are too ripe to be sliced neatly, refrigerate them for 15–20 minutes beforehand. It firms them up just enough.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
- Get a small bowl and combine 3 to 4 tablespoons of your preferred vegan dark chocolate—highest quality, about 70–80% cocoa. No worries if all you have are chocolate chips. Chocolate bars that can be broken into pieces are even better.
- Now melt it gently:
- Microwave Method: Heat in 15-second intervals, stirring after each interval. The total heating time is typically between 45 and 60 seconds.
- Double Boiler Method: Place bowl over pot of warm water (not boiling), stir until smooth.
💡 Optional but useful: Include 1/2 teaspoon coconut oil in melting for extra-glossy finish and less sticky dipping.
Step 3: Dip Banana Slices
- And the pièce de résistance.
- Dip each banana slice halfway into melted chocolate. Scrape off drips. Place it back onto the parchment paper.
- Before the chocolate hardens, sprinkle chopped walnuts on top. A sprinkle will do—just enough to provide a bit of crunch and nutty taste to each bite.
✨ Optional: Playtime. Sprinkle some slices with cinnamon, press some into flaked shredded coconut, get a glob of almond butter, or even a single sprinkle of sea salt on top.
Step 4: Freeze Until Firm
- Place the tray in your freezer and let set for at least 30 minutes, or even an hour, if possible. The banana will be solidly frozen like ice cream, and the chocolate coating will be crunchy.
- Frozen, transfer the bites to an airtight container or freezer-friendly container. They'll last up to 2 months—but serve them fresh.".
💡 Tip: Date the container. They do soften quickly, though, but it's a good habit with any freezer dessert.
Serving Tips
- Scoop out only what you will serve. They're best served straight from the freezer.
- If too hard, let stand at room temperature for 2–3 minutes before serving.
They're the perfect after-noon pick-me-up, lunchbox surprise, or dessert that won't fill you up.
Who is this recipe intended for?
- ✅ Individuals residing on a plant-based, gluten-free, or vegan diet
- ✅ Individuals who look for weight loss, clean food, or low-sugar sweets
- ✅ Families and children who need a healthy snack or after-school treat
- ✅ Anyone looking for an easy, 3-ingredient, no-bake dessert which is healthy but not flavorless
Who is it not for?
- ❌ Individuals with nut allergies (contains walnuts and optional nut butter)
- ❌ People who leave out bananas or chocolate for health, dietary, or personal preference reasons
- ❌ People needing a shelf-life stable snack (this is frozen and kept cool)
- ❌ People on low-fructose or low-carb diets that limit fruit sugars
❄️ Frozen Banana Chocolate Bites – Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the best way to keep the chocolate from seizing when melting it?
Chocolate can seize if even a drop of water touches it. For foolproof results, melt chocolate with a small amount of fat (like coconut oil) and avoid steam or wet utensils. A double-boiler method offers more control than the microwave.
2. Can I replace other fruits or fillings if I dislike bananas or prefer variety?
Of course! Try strawberries, seedless grapes, or pieces of frozen mango. As a filling, a thin date slice, a spoonful of sunflower seed butter, or a small tahini works well as a nut-free substitute.
3. How do I make these bites sweeter without adding sugar?
Use more overripe bananas (they must be strongly speckled or browned) or mix a small amount of date syrup or maple syrup with the melted chocolate before dipping.
4. How do I stop the chocolate from cracking or falling off the banana after freezing?
Dry bananas ahead of time before dipping, so chocolate will adhere. Moisture will not allow chocolate to adhere. Freeze bites quickly in one layer as a precaution to avoid condensation accumulation.
5. Can I prepare a bulk batch and have them taste fresh for weeks?
Absolutely. Once frozen hard, transfer them to a double-layer or vacuum-sealed freezer bag with parchment paper between layers. Date label—they keep it for 6–8 weeks without freezer burn if kept properly.
6. What is the best way to pack these for lunchboxes without melting?
Wrap up each bite in little parchment packets and put them into an insulated lunchbox with an ice pack. They will gradually soften to a creamy consistency by the time it's lunch.
7. How can I elevate this to a more high-class dinner-party dessert?
Serve them on a cold slate with a drizzle of warm vegan caramel, a sprinkle of pink peppercorn, or alongside a small scoop of coconut-based vanilla ice cream and mint leaves as garnish.
8. Can these bites be made protein-dense for post-workout snacks?
Yes—mix plant protein powder (vanilla or chocolate) into the melted nut butter or chocolate before dipping. Or, sprinkle with hemp seeds or chopped, roasted soy nuts for added crunch and protein.
9. Are there any tips for making these with kids?
Let them top! Utilize mini bowls of grated coconut, sprinkles, or chopped nuts. Create a dip station with sanitary utensils and let them create their own bites—fun and encourages healthy eating.
10. What do I do if my banana slices are too mushy to dip?
Chill peeled banana in the fridge for 15–20 minutes before cutting. If they are still too soft, freeze cut-out slices for 10 minutes before dipping – this sets them up enough to handle easily without going flat.
Nutrition Value:
🍌 2 Ripe Bananas (approx. 200g)
Nutritional Content (per 100g):
- Calories: 89 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 22.8g
- Sugars: 12.2g
- Fiber: 2.6g
- Protein: 1.1g
- Fat: 0.3g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Vitamins & Minerals:
- Potassium: 358mg
- Vitamin B6: 0.4mg
- Vitamin C: 10.3mg
- Magnesium: 31.9mg
- Calcium: 5mg
- Iron: 0.3mg
- Zinc: 0.2mg
- Manganese: 0.3mg
Health Benefits:
Bananas are rich in potassium, which supports heart health and muscle function. They also provide vitamin B6, essential for brain development and function, and vitamin C, which aids in immune defense and skin health. The fiber content promotes digestive health and helps maintain blood sugar levels.
🍫 3–4 Tablespoons Vegan Dark Chocolate (70–80% Cacao)
Nutritional Content (per 100g):
- Calories: 500–600 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 46–50g
- Sugars: 20–30g
- Fiber: 10–12g
- Protein: 7–8g
- Fat: 30–35g
- Saturated Fat: 18–20g
- Sodium: 5–10mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Vitamins & Minerals:
- Iron: 11–15mg
- Magnesium: 150–200mg
- Copper: 1–2mg
- Manganese: 0.9–1.2mg
Health Benefits:
Dark chocolate is a potent source of antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which may reduce the risk of heart disease by improving blood flow and lowering blood pressure. It also provides essential minerals like iron and magnesium, supporting overall health.
🌰 2 Tablespoons Crushed Walnuts (approx. 14g)
Nutritional Content:
- Calories: 90–100 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 2–3g
- Fiber: 1–2g
- Protein: 2–3g
- Fat: 9–10g
- Saturated Fat: 0.8–1g
- Sodium: 0–1mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Vitamins & Minerals:
- Vitamin E: 0.2–0.3mg
- Magnesium: 45–50mg
- Phosphorus: 100–110mg
- Copper: 0.2–0.3mg
- Manganese: 0.3–0.4mg
Health Benefits:
Walnuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. They also provide antioxidants and essential minerals like magnesium and phosphorus, supporting bone health and metabolic functions.
🥜 1 Teaspoon Organic Nut Butter (Peanut, Almond, or Cashew)
Nutritional Content:
- Calories: 90–100 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 3–4g
- Fiber: 1–2g
- Protein: 3–4g
- Fat: 8–9g
- Saturated Fat: 1–2g
- Sodium: 0–1mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Vitamins & Minerals:
- Vitamin E: 0.5–1mg
- Magnesium: 30–40mg
- Phosphorus: 50–60mg
- Potassium: 100–150mg
Health Benefits:
Nut butters are rich in healthy fats and protein, providing sustained energy. They also contain vitamins and minerals that support heart health, muscle function, and overall well-being.
🥥 1 Tablespoon Unsweetened Shredded Coconut
Nutritional Content:
- Calories: 35–40 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 2–3g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0.5–1g
- Fat: 3–4g
- Saturated Fat: 2–3g
- Sodium: 0–1mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Vitamins & Minerals:
- Iron: 0.5–1mg
- Magnesium: 10–15mg
- Copper: 0.1–0.2mg
Health Benefits:
Coconut provides healthy fats and fiber, which can aid in digestion and promote feelings of fullness. It also contains minerals like iron and magnesium, supporting metabolic functions.
🌿 1/4 Teaspoon Ceylon Cinnamon
Nutritional Content:
- Calories: 2–3 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Vitamins & Minerals:
- Calcium: 10–15mg
- Iron: 0.1–0.2mg
- Magnesium: 2–3mg
- Manganese: 0.2–0.3mg
Health Benefits:
Ceylon cinnamon is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve heart health.
🌰 1 Tablespoon Chopped Toasted Almonds or Hazelnuts
Nutritional Content:
- Calories: 50–60 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 2–3g
- Fiber: 1–2g
- Protein: 2–3g
- Fat: 5–6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5–1g
- Sodium: 0–1mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Vitamins & Minerals:
- Vitamin E: 1–2mg
- Magnesium: 30
Health Benefits:
Toasted almonds and hazelnuts support heart health, provide healthy fats, protein, fiber, vitamin E, and magnesium—boosting energy, protecting cells, and aiding cholesterol and blood sugar control.
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