If you’re on the lookout for a dessert that’s both playful and indulgent, look no further than this Banana Churros with Chocolate Peanut Butter Sauce Recipe. Imagine crispy, golden tortilla-wrapped banana bites dusted with cinnamon sugar, paired perfectly with a luscious sauce that marries the richness of chocolate and the creamy goodness of peanut butter. This treat is not just a feast for the taste buds but a joy to make and share, turning simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing delight you’ll want to revisit over and over.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to create these delightful Banana Churros with Chocolate Peanut Butter Sauce Recipe calls for a few simple but essential ingredients. Each one brings something special to the table—whether it’s the crispy texture, the sweetness, or that irresistible chocolate-peanut butter combo that steals the show.
- Peanut oil: Perfect for frying to achieve that golden, crispy exterior without overpowering flavors.
- 2 bananas: Ripe and sweet for that tender, naturally sugary center.
- 8 small flour tortillas: Flexible and thin to wrap the banana tightly and crisp up beautifully in the fryer.
- Toothpicks: Handy little helpers for securing your banana rolls during frying.
- 1/2 cup sugar: For the sweet cinnamon-sugar coating that makes these churros extra special.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds a warm, fragrant spice that pairs perfectly with the banana and sugar.
- 1 cup cream: The base of your silky chocolate peanut butter sauce, giving it richness and smooth texture.
- 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts effortlessly into the sauce for that classic chocolate hit.
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter: Adds a nutty depth that elevates the sauce to a luxurious treat.
- Big pinch salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness of the sauce.
- Strawberries: Fresh, vibrant garnish adding a pop of color and a refreshing bite to the dish.
How to Make Banana Churros with Chocolate Peanut Butter Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Start by warming your peanut oil in a high-sided skillet over medium heat. This is important for getting the perfect crisp on your churros without absorbing too much oil. Let it heat for at least five minutes to reach the right temperature for frying.
Step 2: Prepare the Bananas
Slice your bananas first in half, then again lengthwise so you end up with 8 slender banana quarters. This size ensures each churro is easy to handle and maintains that delightful balance of soft banana with crisp exterior.
Step 3: Roll and Secure
Wrap each banana piece tightly in a small flour tortilla and secure them with toothpicks. This step is crucial to keep things intact during frying and to create that signature churro shape.
Step 4: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar
Combine your sugar and cinnamon in a bowl, then spread the mixture onto a plate. This classic cinnamon-sugar coating is a game-changer, bringing sweetness and spice to every bite.
Step 5: Test the Oil
Drop a small scrap of tortilla into the sizzling oil. If it bubbles immediately, you’re set to fry. This simple test keeps you from frying at too low a temperature, which could make your churros soggy.
Step 6: Fry the Churros
Carefully add your wrapped bananas in batches of four. Fry each side for about one minute until lightly golden. The smell at this point is mouthwatering already!
Step 7: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
Remove churros briefly on paper towels to drain excess oil, then roll them enthusiastically in the cinnamon-sugar mix. The warmth from frying helps the sugar stick beautifully. Don’t forget to remove the toothpicks before serving.
Step 8: Make the Chocolate Peanut Butter Sauce
In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the cream on high for two minutes total, stirring halfway. Once bubbling at the edges, immediately add in chocolate chips and peanut butter. Let it rest a minute before whisking until glossy and smooth. A big pinch of salt here pulls all the sweet, rich flavors together brilliantly. If you’re not into peanut butter, simply swap it for a couple tablespoons of butter for that creamy finish.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Dip your warm churros into this decadent sauce and garnish with fresh strawberries for a perfect balance. The contrast of temperatures and textures with each bite is simply addictive.
How to Serve Banana Churros with Chocolate Peanut Butter Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A handful of fresh, sliced strawberries adds a burst of color and a tart freshness that complements the gooey warmth of churros and rich sauce. You could also sprinkle some powdered sugar for a finishing touch that looks and tastes delightful.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines on its own, but if you’re planning a full meal, consider light, fruity sides like a simple mixed berry salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to add creamy coolness and extra indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Banana Churros with Chocolate Peanut Butter Sauce Recipe as part of a dessert platter with other dippable treats like sliced apples, pretzels, or marshmallows. You can also skewer several churros on sticks to create a playful “dessert kabob” that’s perfect for sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover banana churros in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day. While they are best enjoyed fresh, keeping them crisp takes just a little care—avoid stacking too many on top of each other.
Freezing
Wrap cooled churros individually in plastic wrap and freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to one month, ready for quick reheating when a sweet craving hits.
Reheating
To bring your churros back to life, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes. This method preserves their crispness better than microwaving and keeps the banana warm and tender on the inside.
FAQs
Can I use regular butter instead of peanut oil for frying?
Frying bananas requires an oil with a high smoke point, like peanut oil, to get that perfect crisp without burning. Butter’s lower smoke point makes it unsuitable for frying these churros, but it’s fabulous in the sauce if you’re avoiding peanut butter.
Are flour tortillas essential or can I use something else?
Small flour tortillas work best because they wrap tightly and crisp up nicely. Corn tortillas tend to be too brittle and might break during frying, so sticking with flour tortillas ensures the best texture and durability.
Can these banana churros be made vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the cream for coconut cream or another plant-based cream and use dairy-free chocolate chips. Also, use oil that’s vegan-friendly for frying, and you’ll have a vegan-friendly version of this indulgent treat.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
The easiest test is dropping a small scrap of tortilla into the oil—if it bubbles vigorously and starts to crisp immediately, you’re at the right temperature. This helps avoid greasy, soggy churros.
What if I don’t like peanut butter?
No worries at all! The recipe offers a great alternative by swapping peanut butter for butter in the chocolate sauce, keeping the sauce rich and smooth without that nutty flavor. It’s just as delicious!
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the combination of crispy churros and smooth, rich chocolate peanut butter sauce, especially when paired with sweet bananas. This Banana Churros with Chocolate Peanut Butter Sauce Recipe is a brilliant crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for a casual night in yet impressive enough for friends or family gatherings. Don’t hesitate to dive in—your kitchen and your sweet tooth will thank you for it!
