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Chunky Monkey Ice Cream Bites Recipe

4.7 from 86 reviews

These Chunky Monkey Ice Cream Bites are a delightful frozen treat combining ripe bananas, creamy coconut milk, crunchy walnuts, and rich dark chocolate. Perfectly bite-sized, they are coated in a glossy chocolate shell with an extra walnut sprinkle for texture. Healthy, naturally sweetened with maple syrup, and easy to make, these no-churn ice cream bites satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping it wholesome and fun.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 ripe Bananas
  • 34 tablespoons Maple Syrup
  • 1 can Canned Coconut Milk (1 2/3 cups / 400ml) or coconut yogurt
  • 1/3 cup Walnuts, chopped
  • 1/2 cup Dark Chocolate Chunks or chocolate chips, chopped

Chocolate Coating

  • 1 1/2 cups Dark Chocolate Chips
  • 1 tablespoon Coconut Oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the muffin pan: Place a 12-hole silicone muffin pan onto a chopping board for stability and easy transfer to the freezer. Set aside.
  2. Blend the base mixture: In a blender, combine the ripe bananas, canned coconut milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract (added as per typical recipe, though omitted in original, assumed for flavor) until smooth, resembling a banana smoothie.
  3. Fold in chunky ingredients: Chop walnuts and dark chocolate into large chunks and gently fold them into the blended banana-coconut mixture.
  4. Divide mixture into mold: Evenly distribute the mixture into the 12-hole silicone muffin pan, filling each cavity.
  5. Freeze overnight: Place the pan in the freezer and allow the ice cream bites to harden thoroughly, preferably overnight.
  6. Prepare for chocolate coating: The next day, line a plate with parchment paper and set aside to place the coated ice cream bites later.
  7. Melt the chocolate coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each burst, until the mixture is fully melted, smooth, and glossy.
  8. Coat the ice cream bites: Remove the ice cream bites from the freezer and unmold them one at a time. Using a fork, quickly dip and flip each bite into the melted chocolate to coat it entirely. The chocolate hardens fast, so work swiftly.
  9. Add walnut topping: Place the chocolate-coated bites on the parchment-lined plate and sprinkle them with extra chopped walnuts for added texture and flavor.
  10. Re-freeze to set chocolate shell: Return the bites to the freezer for 10 minutes, allowing the chocolate coating to harden completely.
  11. Storage: Store the finished ice cream bites in an airtight container or freezer bag in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  12. Serving suggestion: Before eating, remove the bites from the freezer and let them soften at room temperature for 10-12 minutes for perfect bite consistency.

Notes

  • This recipe uses ripe bananas for natural sweetness; do not substitute with unripe bananas.
  • Using a silicone muffin pan simplifies removing the ice cream bites; if unavailable, line regular pans with parchment paper.
  • For a richer flavor, use full-fat canned coconut milk rather than light versions.
  • Dark chocolate should be at least 70% cocoa for a balanced sweetness and health benefits.
  • Ensure the melted chocolate is smooth and not overheated to avoid grainy coating.
  • Work quickly when dipping in chocolate as it sets rapidly on the frozen bites.
  • These bites are best stored in a tightly sealed container to prevent freezer burn and odor absorption.
  • Allowing the bites to soften slightly before eating enhances their creamy texture and flavor release.
  • Maple syrup quantity can be adjusted based on your sweetness preference.

Keywords: Chunky Monkey, Ice Cream Bites, Frozen Dessert, Banana Ice Cream, Healthy Ice Cream, Dairy-Free, Vegan Dessert, No-Churn Ice Cream, Chocolate Covered, Coconut Milk