I stumbled upon the idea of Peanut Butter Banana Sushi a few years ago when I was desperately trying to find new, healthy-ish snacks that my then-toddler would actually eat without a fuss. The name itself was intriguing enough to pique his interest, and the combination of his favorite things – peanut butter and bananas – was a guaranteed win. The first time we made them, it was an instant hit. He loved helping spread the peanut butter (messily, of course!) and was fascinated by the “sushi” slices. Now, it’s a go-to for quick after-school snacks, a fun addition to weekend brunches, and even a sneaky “dessert” that I feel good about. It’s amazing how something so simple can bring so much joy and be so versatile. It’s not just for kids either; I’ve caught my husband happily munching on these “sushi” rolls, and they’re a surprisingly satisfying pick-me-up for adults too!
Ingredients for Peanut Butter Banana Sushi
This recipe is incredibly simple and uses ingredients you likely already have. This makes about 2 “sushi rolls,” yielding 12-16 pieces, perfect for 1-2 hungry snackers or 2-4 lighter portions.
- Core Ingredients:
- 2 large, ripe but still firm Bananas (not too mushy)
- 2 large Tortillas (8-10 inch, flour, whole wheat, or even gluten-free tortillas work well)
- 4-6 tablespoons Peanut Butter (creamy or crunchy, natural or regular – your preference!)
- Optional but Delicious Add-ins & Toppings:
- 2 tablespoons Mini Chocolate Chips (milk, semi-sweet, or dark)
- 2 tablespoons Shredded Coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
- 2 tablespoons Sprinkles (rainbow or chocolate)
- 1-2 tablespoons Chia Seeds or Hemp Seeds (for an extra nutritional boost)
- 1-2 tablespoons Chopped Nuts (pecans, walnuts, almonds – be mindful of allergies)
- 1-2 teaspoons Honey or Maple Syrup (for drizzling, if you like it sweeter)
- A pinch of Ground Cinnamon
- Other Nut Butters: Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a peanut-free version.
- Fruit Jam or Preserves: A thin layer along with the peanut butter.
Step-by-Step Peanut Butter Banana Sushi Instructions
Making these delightful banana rolls is quick, easy, and a fantastic activity to do with kids.
- Prepare Your Workspace:
- Lay out a clean cutting board or work surface for each tortilla.
- Have all your ingredients measured and ready to go.
- Warm the Tortillas (Optional but Recommended):
- Slightly warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and less likely to crack when you roll them.
- You can warm them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds (wrapped in a barely damp paper towel) or in a dry skillet over low heat for about 20-30 seconds per side. Don’t make them crispy.
- Spread the Peanut Butter:
- Lay a tortilla flat on your work surface.
- Spread 2-3 tablespoons of peanut butter evenly over one side of the tortilla, leaving about a 1/2-inch border along one edge (this will help seal the roll later and prevent too much oozing).
- Add Optional “Inner” Toppings (If Using):
- If you’re using mini chocolate chips, chia seeds, hemp seeds, or a pinch of cinnamon inside the roll, sprinkle them evenly over the peanut butter now.
- Place the Banana:
- Peel one banana.
- Place the whole banana along the edge of the tortilla opposite the clean border. If the banana is longer than the tortilla, you can trim the ends slightly. If it’s very curved, you might gently straighten it or cut it in half to fit better.
- Roll it Up:
- Carefully and tightly roll the tortilla around the banana, starting from the banana side and rolling towards the clean edge. The peanut butter will help the tortilla stick to itself.
- Press gently to seal the edge.
- Slice into “Sushi”:
- Place the banana-filled tortilla roll seam-side down on your cutting board.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 3/4-inch to 1-inch thick pieces. You should get about 6-8 “sushi” pieces per roll.
- Wiping the knife with a damp cloth between cuts can help make cleaner slices, especially if the peanut butter is very sticky.
- Pro-Tip: For even cleaner cuts, you can chill the rolled tortilla in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- Add “Outer” Toppings (If Using):
- Arrange the banana sushi pieces on a plate.
- Now you can sprinkle them with shredded coconut, more chocolate chips, sprinkles, or drizzle with honey/maple syrup.
- Repeat:
- Repeat steps 3-8 with the second tortilla and banana.
- Serve Immediately:
- Peanut Butter Banana Sushi is best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate)
- Servings: This recipe makes 2 rolls, approximately 12-16 pieces. A serving could be considered 1 roll (6-8 pieces).
- Calories per serving (1 roll/6-8 pieces, basic recipe with peanut butter): Approximately 350-450 calories.
Please note: These are estimates and can vary significantly based on:
- Type and size of tortilla: Whole wheat tortillas generally have more fiber.
- Amount of peanut butter: Using more peanut butter increases calories and fat (though mostly healthy fats).
- Optional add-ins: Chocolate chips, honey, and sprinkles will increase sugar and calorie content. Seeds and nuts will add healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
This snack provides a good source of potassium (from bananas), healthy fats and protein (from peanut butter and nuts/seeds), and carbohydrates for energy.
Preparation and Assembly Time
This is one of the quickest snacks you can make!
- Preparation Time: 2-3 minutes (gathering ingredients, warming tortillas if desired)
- Assembly Time: 5-7 minutes (spreading, rolling, slicing)
Total Time: Approximately 7-10 minutes.
It’s a fantastic option when you need something satisfying and fun in a hurry.
How to Serve Your Delightful Peanut Butter Banana Sushi
The presentation can make this simple snack even more appealing, especially for kids!
- On a Plate, “Sushi Style”:
- Arrange the slices cut-side up on a small plate or platter.
- Provide “chopsticks” (kid-friendly training chopsticks are a huge hit!) for an authentic sushi experience.
- With Dipping Sauces:
- Chocolate Sauce: A small ramekin of melted chocolate or chocolate syrup for dipping.
- Yogurt Dip: Plain or vanilla yogurt, perhaps sweetened with a touch of honey.
- Extra Peanut Butter: For the true PB lovers.
- Fruit Jam/Preserves: Strawberry or raspberry jam makes a great dip.
- In a Lunchbox:
- Pack them tightly in a bento box compartment to prevent them from unrolling.
- They are best eaten within a few hours, as the banana can brown (though the peanut butter helps slow this).
- As a Party Treat:
- Arrange them on a platter for a fun, healthier option at kids’ parties.
- Use a variety of toppings to make them colorful and exciting.
- For Breakfast or Brunch:
- Serve alongside some berries or other fresh fruit.
- A small glass of milk completes the meal.
- Garnish Ideas:
- A light dusting of powdered sugar (if you don’t mind the extra sweetness).
- A few fresh mint leaves for color.
- A sprinkle of edible glitter for a bit of magic.
Additional Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Banana Sushi
- Banana Choice is Key: Use bananas that are ripe (sweet) but still firm. Overripe, mushy bananas will make the sushi soggy and difficult to roll and slice. Slightly green-tipped bananas work well too if you prefer a less sweet taste.
- Don’t Skip Warming the Tortilla (Slightly): A cold, stiff tortilla is much more likely to crack or tear when you roll it. A brief warming makes it pliable and cooperative.
- Roll Tightly but Gently: You want a compact roll so it holds its shape when sliced, but don’t squeeze so hard that the banana gets crushed or the peanut butter squishes out excessively.
- Chill for Cleaner Slices: If you have an extra 10-15 minutes, pop the un-sliced, rolled tortilla into the fridge. This helps firm up the peanut butter and banana, making it much easier to get clean, neat slices.
- Use a Sharp Knife: A sharp knife will glide through the roll more easily. If it starts to stick, wipe the blade with a damp paper towel between cuts. A serrated knife can also work well.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Peanut Butter Banana Sushi
- Q: Can I make Peanut Butter Banana Sushi ahead of time?
- A: It’s best served fresh, ideally within an hour or two of making. The banana will start to brown over time, even though the peanut butter offers some protection. If you need to make it slightly ahead, wrap the unsliced rolls tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to 2-3 hours. Slice just before serving.
- Q: My banana is too curved to roll neatly. What can I do?
- A: You have a couple of options:
- Gently try to straighten it a bit without breaking it.
- Cut the banana in half crosswise and lay the pieces end-to-end in the tortilla.
- If it’s only slightly curved, position the curve so it naturally fits the roll.
- A: You have a couple of options:
- Q: Are there nut-free alternatives to peanut butter?
- A: Absolutely! Sunflower seed butter (SunButter) is a popular and delicious nut-free alternative. Tahini (sesame seed paste) can also work, though it has a more distinct, savory flavor that might need a little honey to balance for this recipe. Wowbutter (toasted soy spread) is another option. Always check labels to ensure they are produced in a nut-free facility if allergies are severe.
- Q: Can I use other fruits besides bananas?
- A: While bananas are classic for their shape and texture, you could experiment. Large strawberries (hulled and possibly sliced to fit), a stick of apple (perhaps very lightly sautéed to soften slightly), or even a stick of firm mango could be interesting. The key is to use fruit that is firm enough to hold its shape and won’t release too much liquid.
- Q: How can I make these even healthier?
- A:
- Use whole wheat or sprouted grain tortillas for more fiber.
- Choose natural peanut butter with no added sugar or oils.
- Load up on nutritious toppings like chia seeds, hemp seeds, flax seeds, or finely chopped nuts (if no allergies).
- Skip sugary add-ins like chocolate chips and sprinkles, or use them very sparingly.
- Use unsweetened shredded coconut.
- A:
This Peanut Butter Banana Sushi is more than just a snack; it’s a fun, interactive food experience that’s quick to make and even quicker to disappear. Enjoy creating and devouring these tasty little rolls!
Print
Peanut Butter Banana Sushi Recipe
Ingredients
-
- Core Ingredients:
-
- 2 large, ripe but still firm Bananas (not too mushy)
-
- 2 large Tortillas (8–10 inch, flour, whole wheat, or even gluten-free tortillas work well)
-
- 4–6 tablespoons Peanut Butter (creamy or crunchy, natural or regular – your preference!)
-
- Core Ingredients:
-
- Optional but Delicious Add-ins & Toppings:
-
- 2 tablespoons Mini Chocolate Chips (milk, semi-sweet, or dark)
-
- 2 tablespoons Shredded Coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
-
- 2 tablespoons Sprinkles (rainbow or chocolate)
-
- 1–2 tablespoons Chia Seeds or Hemp Seeds (for an extra nutritional boost)
-
- 1–2 tablespoons Chopped Nuts (pecans, walnuts, almonds – be mindful of allergies)
-
- 1–2 teaspoons Honey or Maple Syrup (for drizzling, if you like it sweeter)
-
- A pinch of Ground Cinnamon
-
- Other Nut Butters: Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a peanut-free version.
-
- Fruit Jam or Preserves: A thin layer along with the peanut butter.
-
- Optional but Delicious Add-ins & Toppings:
Instructions
-
- Prepare Your Workspace:
-
- Lay out a clean cutting board or work surface for each tortilla.
-
- Have all your ingredients measured and ready to go.
-
- Prepare Your Workspace:
-
- Warm the Tortillas (Optional but Recommended):
-
- Slightly warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and less likely to crack when you roll them.
-
- You can warm them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds (wrapped in a barely damp paper towel) or in a dry skillet over low heat for about 20-30 seconds per side. Don’t make them crispy.
-
- Warm the Tortillas (Optional but Recommended):
-
- Spread the Peanut Butter:
-
- Lay a tortilla flat on your work surface.
-
- Spread 2-3 tablespoons of peanut butter evenly over one side of the tortilla, leaving about a 1/2-inch border along one edge (this will help seal the roll later and prevent too much oozing).
-
- Spread the Peanut Butter:
-
- Add Optional “Inner” Toppings (If Using):
-
- If you’re using mini chocolate chips, chia seeds, hemp seeds, or a pinch of cinnamon inside the roll, sprinkle them evenly over the peanut butter now.
-
- Add Optional “Inner” Toppings (If Using):
-
- Place the Banana:
-
- Peel one banana.
-
- Place the whole banana along the edge of the tortilla opposite the clean border. If the banana is longer than the tortilla, you can trim the ends slightly. If it’s very curved, you might gently straighten it or cut it in half to fit better.
-
- Place the Banana:
-
- Roll it Up:
-
- Carefully and tightly roll the tortilla around the banana, starting from the banana side and rolling towards the clean edge. The peanut butter will help the tortilla stick to itself.
-
- Press gently to seal the edge.
-
- Roll it Up:
-
- Slice into “Sushi”:
-
- Place the banana-filled tortilla roll seam-side down on your cutting board.
-
- Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 3/4-inch to 1-inch thick pieces. You should get about 6-8 “sushi” pieces per roll.
-
- Wiping the knife with a damp cloth between cuts can help make cleaner slices, especially if the peanut butter is very sticky.
-
- Pro-Tip: For even cleaner cuts, you can chill the rolled tortilla in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
-
- Slice into “Sushi”:
-
- Add “Outer” Toppings (If Using):
-
- Arrange the banana sushi pieces on a plate.
-
- Now you can sprinkle them with shredded coconut, more chocolate chips, sprinkles, or drizzle with honey/maple syrup.
-
- Add “Outer” Toppings (If Using):
-
- Repeat:
-
- Repeat steps 3-8 with the second tortilla and banana.
-
- Repeat:
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 350-450