Description of this recipe: These Banana Bread Bites are a healthier, bite-sized twist on the classic comfort food. Made with Kodiak Chocolate Chip Power Cakes mix, mashed bananas, peanut butter, and walnuts, they offer a satisfying combination of flavor and nutrition. Perfect for a quick breakfast, afternoon snack, or guilt-free dessert.
Why you will love this recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, these bites are perfect for busy schedules.
- Healthier Option: Made with Kodiak Power Cakes mix and bananas, they offer a good source of protein and fiber compared to traditional banana bread.
- Kid-Friendly: The mini size and delicious flavor make these a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with your favorite nuts, seeds, or chocolate chips.
- Portable: The perfect grab-and-go snack for lunchboxes, road trips, or post-workout fuel.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze for a quick and healthy snack whenever you need it.
- Chocolate Chips: A subtle chocolatey taste that adds sweetness and pleasure
- Less Guilt: These are made with nutritious ingrediants that reduce guilt and increase nutritional value.
- The Perfect texture: They are not too heavy nor too light!
Introduction
Banana bread is a beloved classic for a reason. Its comforting aroma, moist texture, and sweet, banana-infused flavor evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia. But sometimes, we crave that banana bread goodness without the guilt of a full-sized loaf loaded with sugar and butter. That’s where these Banana Bread Bites come in!
This recipe takes the essence of traditional banana bread and transforms it into a healthier, more convenient, and utterly irresistible treat. By using Kodiak Chocolate Chip Power Cakes mix as a base, we significantly increase the protein and fiber content, making these bites a more nutritious option. The addition of mashed bananas provides natural sweetness and moisture, while the peanut butter adds a touch of richness and healthy fats. Finally, chopped walnuts offer a satisfying crunch and a boost of omega-3 fatty acids.
These Banana Bread Bites are not only healthier but also incredibly versatile. They’re perfect for a quick and easy breakfast on the go, a satisfying afternoon snack to curb those cravings, or a guilt-free dessert after dinner. Their mini size makes them ideal for portion control, and they’re a hit with both kids and adults.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, you’ll find this recipe simple and straightforward. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch of these delightful bites in no time. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the joy of banana bread in a perfectly portioned, guilt-free package!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Kodiak Chocolate Chip Power Cakes Flapjack & Waffle Mix
- 2/3 cup mashed banana (about 2 medium bananas, very ripe for best results)
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, your preference)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (or any nut of your choice, like pecans or almonds)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This ensures that the bites bake evenly and don’t dry out. Prepare a mini muffin tin by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or lining it with mini muffin liners. This will prevent the bites from sticking and make for easy removal.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed banana and peanut butter. Use a fork or a whisk to thoroughly combine these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for creating a consistent batter and preventing any lumps of peanut butter.
Step 3: Add the egg to the banana-peanut butter mixture and mix well until fully incorporated. The egg acts as a binder, helping to hold the ingredients together and create a cohesive batter. Be sure to mix thoroughly to ensure that the egg is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 4: Gradually stir in the Kodiak Chocolate Chip Power Cakes Flapjack & Waffle Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in tough bites. Mix until the flour is just incorporated, leaving a few streaks if necessary.
Step 5: Gently fold in the chopped walnuts. Folding is a technique that involves gently incorporating ingredients without deflating the batter. Use a spatula to gently fold in the walnuts until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 6: Spoon the batter into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cavity about 3/4 full. This will allow the bites to rise properly without overflowing. Use a small spoon or a cookie scoop for easy and even filling.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on the bites and check for doneness using a toothpick.
Step 8: Let the bites cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will prevent them from sticking to the pan and allow them to cool evenly.
Step 9: Serve warm or at room temperature. These bites are delicious served as is, but you can also add a dollop of Greek yogurt, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
COOKING Rating:
Easy – This recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and requires minimal effort.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy as a quick and healthy breakfast.
- Pack in lunchboxes for a nutritious snack.
- Serve as a guilt-free dessert after dinner.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
- Top with Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a more substantial snack.
- Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for added sweetness.
- Take on a road trip or hike for a portable energy boost.
- Great for after school snacks
- Serve as an addition to a dessert bar
Tips:
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture.
- Don’t overmix the batter to avoid tough bites.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
- Substitute other nuts for walnuts, such as pecans or almonds.
- Add a handful of chocolate chips for a more decadent treat.
- Store leftover bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for longer storage (up to 2 months).
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
10-12 minutes
Total Time:
20-22 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Per bite, approximate)
- Calories: 60
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 50mg
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Conclusion
These Banana Bread Bites are a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy the classic flavors of banana bread without the guilt. They’re quick, easy, and versatile, making them the perfect snack or treat for any occasion. So, go ahead and bake a batch today – your taste buds (and your body) will thank you!
Questions and Answers about this Recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of flour instead of Kodiak Power Cakes mix?
A: While you can substitute another type of flour, such as whole wheat flour or all-purpose flour, the nutritional profile of the bites will change significantly. Kodiak Power Cakes mix contains added protein and fiber, which contribute to the health benefits of this recipe. If you do substitute, you may need to adjust the amount of liquid to achieve the desired batter consistency. You might also consider adding a scoop of protein powder to maintain the protein content. Be aware that the flavor will also change, and you may need to add a bit more sugar or sweetener to achieve the right level of sweetness. The bites may also have a slightly different texture.
Q2: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Yes, with a few substitutions! Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes to thicken). Ensure your peanut butter and Chocolate Chips are vegan, and you’re all set! You could also substitute a vegan protein powder for added nutritional value if you skip the egg.
Q3: How do I store the Banana Bread Bites?
A: The best way to store these bites is in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. To freeze, place the cooled bites in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 30 minutes, or until solid. This will prevent them from sticking together. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a few seconds.
Q4: Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! In fact, the recipe already contains chocolate chips by using Kodiak Chocolate Chip Power Cakes Flapjack & Waffle Mix. If you’d like an even more intense chocolate flavor, feel free to add a handful of your favorite chocolate chips (dark, milk, or semi-sweet) along with the walnuts. Adjust the amount to your liking.
Q5: My Banana Bread Bites turned out dry. What could I have done wrong?
A: There are a few potential reasons why your bites might have turned out dry:
- Overbaking: Make sure to check for doneness with a toothpick and avoid baking them for too long.
- Too much flour: Be careful not to overmeasure the flour, as this can lead to dry baked goods. Use a spoon to fluff the flour in the measuring cup and then level it off with a knife.
- Not enough moisture: Ensure that your bananas are very ripe, as they provide essential moisture to the recipe. If your bananas aren’t ripe enough, you can add a tablespoon or two of applesauce or yogurt to the batter to compensate.
- Oven temperature: Double-check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer to ensure that it’s accurate.
