11 Banana-Based Snack Ideas That Are Better Than Store-Bought Back-to-School Snacks

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Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Banana oatmeal cookies are a delicious and healthy snack option that’s easy to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the guilt. These cookies are moist, chewy, and bring the natural sweetness of bananas harmoniously combined with heart-healthy oats. They’re also versatile, allowing for the addition of your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth, then mix in honey (or maple syrup) and peanut butter until well combined.
3. Add the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, vanilla extract and mix until thoroughly combined. If using, fold in any optional mix-ins.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping them into cookies.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Let cool before enjoying your delicious banana oatmeal cookies!

Banana Smoothie Bowl

Banana smoothie bowls are a vibrant, nutritious dish that makes for a perfect breakfast or snack. This dish blends ripe bananas with your choice of milk and toppings, creating a creamy and satisfying base that can be customized with a variety of fruits, nuts, granola, and seeds. It’s not only visually appealing but also packed with vitamins and minerals to fuel your day.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a blender, combine the ripe bananas, Greek yogurt, milk, and optional spinach. Blend until smooth.
2. If desired, add honey or maple syrup for sweetness and blend again.
3. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and arrange your favorite toppings on top for added texture and flavor.
4. Enjoy your delicious and invigorating banana smoothie bowl!

Peanut Butter Banana Toast

Peanut Butter Banana Toast is a simple yet delicious snack or breakfast option that combines the creaminess of peanut butter with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. This dish is not only quick to prepare but is also a great source of protein and healthy fats, making it a satisfying choice for any time of the day.

Cooking Steps:

1. Toast the slices of whole grain bread to your desired level of crispiness.
2. While the bread is toasting, slice the ripe banana into thin rounds.
3. Spread the peanut butter evenly over the toasted bread.
4. Arrange the banana slices on top of the peanut butter.
5. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with cinnamon and chia seeds if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy your tasty Peanut Butter Banana Toast!

Banana Chips With Coconut

Banana Chips with Coconut are a delightful and crunchy snack that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the tropical flavor of shredded coconut. These baked snacks are not only tasty but also healthier than store-bought chips, making them a perfect option for satisfying cravings without the guilt.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Peel and slice the ripe bananas into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the banana slices with melted coconut oil and toss until they are well-coated.
4. Spread the banana slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and sprinkle with shredded coconut, cinnamon, and sea salt if desired.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1-2 hours or until the banana chips are crispy, flipping them halfway through for even cooking.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool before serving. Enjoy your crunchy Banana Chips with Coconut!

Chocolate-Dipped Bananas

Chocolate-Dipped Bananas are a delicious and indulgent treat that combines the creamy sweetness of fresh bananas with rich, melted chocolate. This simple yet satisfying snack is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and can be enjoyed as a fun dessert or a quick snack.

Cooking Steps:

1. Start by peeling and cutting the ripe bananas into bite-sized pieces or halves, depending on your preference.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil together in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
3. Dip each banana piece into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off.
4. Place the chocolate-dipped bananas on a parchment-lined baking sheet and add any optional toppings as desired.
5. Freeze the bananas for about 1-2 hours or until the chocolate is firm.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious Chocolate-Dipped Bananas!

Banana Pancakes

Banana Pancakes are a delightful and fluffy breakfast treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with classic pancake batter. These pancakes are easy to make and perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch or a quick weekday breakfast, providing a delicious way to incorporate fruit into your morning routine.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In the bowl with the mashed bananas, add the milk, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing well.
4. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until just combined; do not over-mix.
5. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little butter.
6. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake, cooking until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings such as syrup, nuts, or additional banana slices. Enjoy your delicious Banana Pancakes!

Banana Nice Cream

Banana Nice Cream is a creamy, dairy-free dessert that’s incredibly simple to make and a fantastic way to enjoy the delicious flavor of bananas. This frozen treat is perfect for warm days or anytime you crave something sweet without any added sugars or artificial ingredients. It’s just bananas blended into a silky smooth ice cream-like consistency, making it a healthy alternative to traditional ice cream.

Cooking Steps:

1. Peel the ripe bananas and slice them into small pieces.
2. Place the banana slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours or until solid.
3. Transfer the frozen banana slices to a blender or food processor.
4. Blend until the bananas are smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
5. If desired, add any optional ingredients and blend until fully combined.
6. Serve immediately for a soft-serve texture or transfer to a container and freeze for 1-2 hours for a firmer consistency. Enjoy your revitalizing Banana Nice Cream!

Savory Banana Nachos

Savory Banana Nachos are a unique and delightful twist on traditional nachos, offering a delicious combination of sweet and savory flavors. This dish features ripe banana slices topped with a variety of savory ingredients, making it a fun and nutritious snack or appetizer that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the bananas into thick rounds and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Sprinkle the black beans, shredded cheese, and sliced jalapeños evenly over the bananas.
4. Bake in the oven for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Remove from the oven and add diced tomatoes and avocado on top.
6. Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
7. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Savory Banana Nachos!

Banana Energy Bites

Banana Energy Bites are a convenient and nutritious snack perfect for an on-the-go lifestyle. These bite-sized treats combine the natural sweetness of bananas with wholesome ingredients like oats, nut butter, and honey. They are not only easy to make but also provide a quick energy boost, making them ideal for pre- or post-workout fuel.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
2. Add the rolled oats, nut butter, honey, chia seeds, chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt to the mashed bananas. Mix until well combined.
3. Scoop the mixture and form it into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
4. Place the energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Enjoy your Banana Energy Bites as a quick snack or pre/post-workout treat!

Peanut Butter Stuffed Bananas

Peanut Butter Stuffed Bananas are a delicious and satisfying snack that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with creamy peanut butter. This simple treat is perfect for a quick energy boost, whether enjoyed as a midday pick-me-up or a post-workout refuel. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you’ll have a nutritious snack that both kids and adults will love.

Cooking Steps:

1. Slice the ripe bananas in half lengthwise, leaving the peel on for easier handling.
2. Gently scoop out a small portion of the banana flesh to create a space for the peanut butter.
3. Fill the hollowed banana halves with peanut butter, using a spoon or knife.
4. If desired, sprinkle with dark chocolate chips and cinnamon on top of the peanut butter.
5. Serve immediately or enjoy as is, or place in the refrigerator for a chilled treat!

Banana Muffins

Banana Muffins are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. These moist and flavorful muffins are packed with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, making them a wholesome option that everyone will appreciate. They can also be customized with add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it.
2. In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
3. Stir in the melted butter, then add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in any optional add-ins if desired.
6. Fill the prepared muffin tin with the mixture, about ¾ full.
7. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!