Discover a delightful twist on a beloved classic with these frozen peanut butter banana split cups. We’ve taken inspiration from the popular banana bark trend of previous years and transformed it into convenient, individual cup servings. These treats feature multiple layers of indulgence, starting with a rich chocolate base, followed by a creamy peanut butter-infused Greek yogurt filling, fresh slices of bananas and strawberries, and finished off with a luscious chocolate drizzle and crunchy crushed peanuts. They make for the perfect frozen dessert that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
These frozen peanut butter banana split cups represent an effortless, no-bake dessert option that’s sure to delight family members and guests alike. The combination of a sturdy frozen chocolate shell, smooth peanut butter Greek yogurt mixture, and vibrant fruit layers creates an unforgettable banana split experience in bite-sized form. Preparation is straightforward, requiring minimal time and no oven use, making it ideal for warm days or whenever you crave something sweet without the hassle.
Ingredients
Magic Shell
- 9 oz. chocolate chips, either semi-sweet or dark chocolate variety
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
Filling
- 2 bananas, thinly sliced into rounds
- 1 cup Greek yogurt, choose vanilla or plain based on preference
- 1/3 cup peanut butter, smooth or crunchy as desired
- 1 cup strawberries, washed and sliced into thin pieces
Optional Toppings
- Melted chocolate for drizzling
- Crushed peanuts for added texture and flavor
Instructions
Begin by lining a standard muffin tin with paper liners to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal later. Set the prepared tin aside while you move on to the next steps.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat them in short intervals, stirring frequently until the mixture achieves a completely smooth and glossy consistency. This creates the ‘magic shell’ that will form the base and sides of your cups.
Using a spoon or small scoop, distribute about 1 tablespoon of the melted chocolate mixture into the bottom of each muffin liner. This forms the initial base layer.
To coat the sides, hold the muffin tin at a gentle angle and carefully rotate it. Allow the melted chocolate to flow up the sides of each liner, covering approximately halfway up the height. This technique ensures even distribution and a sturdy structure for the fillings.
Transfer the muffin tin to the freezer and let it chill for exactly 2 minutes. This quick freeze helps set the chocolate shell partially.
After the initial freeze, add an additional 1/2 tablespoon of melted chocolate to each liner. Repeat the tilting and rotating process to extend the chocolate coating a bit higher on the sides, reinforcing the shell.
Return the muffin tin to the freezer for another 5 minutes to fully solidify the chocolate shells before adding the softer fillings.
While the chocolate layers are firming up in the freezer, take the time to prepare the creamy filling. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, peanut butter, and a touch of honey if you prefer extra sweetness. Use a sturdy spoon or whisk to thoroughly blend these ingredients until the mixture is uniform, creamy, and free of lumps. The peanut butter adds a nutty richness that pairs beautifully with the tangy yogurt.
Once the chocolate shells are solidly frozen, it’s time to layer in the fresh fruits. Place 2 to 3 slices of banana into the bottom of each chocolate-lined cup. Arrange them neatly for an appealing presentation when the treats are later unmolded.
Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of the prepared peanut butter Greek yogurt mixture over the banana slices in each cup. Spread it gently to create an even layer that covers the fruit completely.
Layer 2 to 3 slices of fresh strawberries on top of the yogurt mixture. Press them down lightly into the creamy layer to secure them and ensure they integrate well without shifting during freezing.
For an extra touch of decadence, drizzle a small amount of melted chocolate over the top of each assembled cup. Sprinkle generously with crushed peanuts to add crunch and visual appeal.
Place the fully assembled muffin tin back into the freezer. Allow the cups to freeze solid for at least 30 minutes, though longer freezing times up to several hours will make them even easier to handle and serve.
Storage Tips
To maintain their shape and texture, always store these peanut butter banana split cups in the freezer. Avoid leaving them at room temperature for extended periods, as the fillings may soften and cause the structure to lose integrity. When properly stored in an airtight container, they can last up to a couple of weeks in the freezer, making them a fantastic make-ahead treat for spontaneous cravings or gatherings.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of these frozen peanut butter banana split cups provides approximately 218 calories, along with 21 grams of carbohydrates, 4 grams of protein, 14 grams of fat, 1 gram of fiber, and 16 grams of sugar. These values are estimates calculated automatically and may vary slightly based on specific brands or substitutions used in preparation. This dessert strikes a balance between indulgence and moderate nutrition, thanks to the inclusion of Greek yogurt for protein and fresh fruits for natural sweetness and vitamins.
Prep time for this recipe is just 10 minutes, with a chilling time of 30 minutes, bringing the total time to 40 minutes. This yields 12 servings, perfect for sharing or portion control. These cups are naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, fitting various dietary preferences with ease.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can customize the fruits based on seasonality—try raspberries or blueberries for a twist—or adjust the sweetness level by choosing different chocolate types or adding a natural sweetener to the yogurt mix. They’re not only a hit with kids but also appeal to adults seeking a healthier frozen treat alternative. Serve them straight from the freezer for the best texture, perhaps alongside a scoop of ice cream for an over-the-top banana split experience in cup form.
