Chocolate Banana Peanut Butter Bark

Chocolate Banana Peanut Butter Bark

Chocolate Banana Peanut Butter Bark: A Low-Point, Indulgent Treat

If you’re on the hunt for a healthy yet indulgent dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth without sabotaging your weight loss goals, look no further than this Chocolate Banana Peanut Butter Bark. Perfectly balanced with creamy peanut butter, sweet banana slices, and rich chocolate, this treat will give you all the candy bar vibes you’re craving but at a fraction of the points! This recipe is not only delicious but incredibly easy to make and falls under just 3 Weight Watchers points per serving.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Banana Peanut Butter Bark

This dessert combines three fan-favorite ingredients – chocolate, peanut butter, and banana – into one simple yet satisfying bark. With each bite, you get a blend of rich flavors and textures, from the smoothness of the peanut butter to the crispiness of the chocolate coating, and the sweet chewiness of banana slices. Plus, it’s low in Weight Watchers points, making it perfect for a post-meal treat, snack, or even a quick grab-and-go energy bite.

Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also a great way to curb your cravings for something sweet while keeping your Weight Watchers points in check. Whether you’re following the Green, Blue, or Purple plan, this bark fits into any of these plans with minimal points and maximum flavor.

Recipe Breakdown

Serving Size: Makes about 10 servings
WW Points: 3 points per serving (based on the Blue Plan)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Ingredients

For this delicious and low-point treat, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 medium banana (approx. 4 oz) – sliced
  • 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter (use natural peanut butter for fewer points)
  • 4 oz dark chocolate (preferably 70% cocoa, can use sugar-free for fewer points)
  • 1 tsp coconut oil (for melting the chocolate)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional for added flavor)
  • Pinch of sea salt (optional for garnish)
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional for a hint of spice)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Banana:
    Start by peeling and slicing your banana into ¼-inch thick rounds. Make sure the slices are even to ensure a uniform texture in the bark. Set the banana slices aside on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap.
  2. Melt the Peanut Butter:
    In a microwave-safe bowl, microwave the peanut butter for 20-30 seconds, or until it’s warm and slightly runny. Stir in the vanilla extract (if using) and cinnamon. You should have a smooth, pourable peanut butter mixture. If you want the peanut butter to be a bit thinner, you can add a small splash of water or unsweetened almond milk.
  3. Melt the Chocolate:
    Break the dark chocolate into small pieces and place it in a heatproof bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of coconut oil to the bowl and melt in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate as it can seize up.
  4. Assemble the Bark:
    Once your banana slices are laid out on the parchment paper, drizzle the peanut butter evenly over the banana slices. You can use a spoon or pour the peanut butter directly from the bowl. Be sure to coat each banana slice well with peanut butter for the best flavor. Afterward, drizzle the melted chocolate over the peanut butter-coated banana slices.
  5. Chill the Bark:
    Place the entire baking sheet into the freezer and allow the bark to chill for at least 2 hours. This will help the chocolate set and firm up, making it easier to break the bark into pieces once fully chilled.
  6. Cut and Serve:
    Once the bark is fully chilled and the chocolate is set, break the bark into pieces using your hands or a sharp knife. Each piece should have a nice balance of banana, peanut butter, and chocolate. The irregular sizes are part of the charm!
  7. Storage:
    Store any leftover bark in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a week. The bark will stay crisp and refreshing when frozen, making it a perfect on-the-go treat.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this chocolate banana peanut butter bark is not only low in points but also packed with nutrients. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving:

  • Calories: 140 kcal
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Carbs: 14 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugar: 9 g
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
  • Sodium: 50 mg
  • WW Points (Blue Plan): 3
  • WW Points (Green Plan): 4
  • WW Points (Purple Plan): 3

Tips for Making the Best Chocolate Banana Peanut Butter Bark

  1. Use a Good Quality Chocolate:
    For the best flavor, opt for dark chocolate that’s at least 70% cocoa. Not only does it have a richer taste, but it also contains less sugar, which helps keep the points lower. If you prefer, you can use sugar-free chocolate chips or a lower-calorie chocolate to further reduce points.
  2. Choose Natural Peanut Butter:
    To keep the recipe as healthy as possible, choose a natural peanut butter that contains only peanuts and salt. Avoid varieties with added sugar, oils, or artificial sweeteners.
  3. Freeze Thoroughly:
    Freezing the bark is key to ensuring the chocolate sets properly and that the banana slices stay intact. If you don’t chill it long enough, the bark may be too soft to break into pieces.
  4. Experiment with Add-ins:
    If you like to get creative with your recipes, you can add a few extras to the bark before freezing. Consider sprinkling in some chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts) for extra crunch, or even some dried fruit for added sweetness and texture.
  5. Make Ahead for Meal Prep:
    This chocolate banana peanut butter bark is a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Since it freezes well, you can prep it in advance and have a batch on hand whenever you want a quick and satisfying snack or dessert.

Why This Recipe Works for Weight Watchers

This chocolate banana peanut butter bark is an ideal option for those on the Weight Watchers program. Here’s why it works:

  • Low in SmartPoints: With just 3 points per serving on the Blue and Purple plans, this treat is a great option if you’re looking to satisfy your cravings while still staying on track.
  • Balance of Macros: The combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and banana provides a balanced mix of healthy fats, protein, and carbohydrates, making it a filling treat that will keep you satisfied.
  • No Added Sugar: By using natural peanut butter and dark chocolate, this recipe avoids unnecessary added sugars, which can quickly add up on your point tracker.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in the mood for something sweet but don’t want to derail your healthy eating habits, this Chocolate Banana Peanut Butter Bark is the perfect solution. With its rich, creamy, and satisfying flavors, it’s a great treat to indulge in without the guilt. Plus, it’s simple to make and will only take you about 10 minutes of active prep time, leaving you with a delicious dessert that’s ready in a couple of hours.

Whether you’re following Weight Watchers or simply looking for a healthier snack option, this bark hits all the right notes. It’s versatile, customizable, and, most importantly, delicious. Enjoy!

By following this recipe and utilizing the nutritional information provided, you can easily incorporate this chocolate banana peanut butter bark into your weight loss journey without sacrificing flavor. Stay on track, and indulge responsibly!