Frozen Banana Split Bars

As the temperatures rise and the sun shines brighter, the allure of frozen desserts becomes irresistible. Whether it's a hot summer day or a cozy gathering with friends, nothing satisfies quite like a refreshing treat. Among the myriad of options, frozen desserts stand out for their ability to cool down and delight the palate simultaneously. One such treat that captures the essence of summer is the banana split. However, for those seeking a healthier and more wholesome version of this classic, the Chilly Delight: Frozen Banana Split Bars offer a delightful alternative that is both nutritious and delicious.

Enjoy the perfect summer treat with these Chilly Delight: Frozen Banana Split Bars! This healthier twist on a classic dessert combines fresh ingredients like bananas, Greek yogurt, and strawberries to create delicious layers bursting with flavor. With a wholesome graham cracker base and a drizzle of rich dark chocolate syrup, these bars are not just a sweet indulgence, but also packed with nutrients. Easy to make and perfect for warm days, they'll satisfy your cravings without the guilt!

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Ingredients

For the Base Layer:

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/3 cup melted coconut oil

2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

For the Banana Layer:

2 large ripe bananas, mashed

1 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Layer:

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

1 tablespoon sugar (optional, depending on sweetness of strawberries)

For the Chocolate Syrup:

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

2 tablespoons coconut oil

For Topping:

Crushed nuts (walnuts or almonds)

Whipped cream (optional)

Maraschino cherries (for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare the Base:

- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, melted coconut oil, and honey (or maple syrup). Mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.

- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8x8 inch baking dish to form an even layer. Place it in the freezer to set for about 15 minutes.

Make the Banana Layer:

- In a separate bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Then, mix in the Greek yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until well combined.

- Remove the base layer from the freezer and gently spread the banana mixture over it, smoothing it into an even layer. Return to the freezer for another 15 minutes.

Prepare the Strawberry Layer:

- If desired, sprinkle the sliced strawberries with sugar and let them sit for 5-10 minutes to draw out their juices (this is optional; it depends on your preference for sweetness).

- After the banana layer has set, layer the strawberry slices evenly over the banana layer. Return to the freezer for another 10-15 minutes.

Make the Chocolate Syrup:

- In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat.

- Drizzle the warm chocolate syrup over the strawberry layer, creating a beautiful pattern. You may also want to swirl it gently with a toothpick for a marbled effect.

Finish and Freeze:

- Sprinkle crushed nuts on top of the chocolate layer, pressing them lightly into the chocolate for better adhesion.

- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours or until completely solid.

Serve:

- Once frozen through, remove the bars from the baking dish using the edges of the plastic wrap for easy lifting. Cut into squares or bars.

- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a maraschino cherry on top if desired.

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Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes | Servings: 9