And You’ll Want Seconds

If you love reimagining classic dishes with a healthy spin, you're going to want in on this. Recently, Dole’s very own Registered Dietitian, Melanie Marcus, went live with Homemade Cooking to share something unexpected but seriously delicious: Chocolate Banana Hummus.

Yes, you heard that right—hummus, but make it dessert. This isn’t your traditional savory dip. We’re talking creamy chickpeas blended with ripe bananas, a touch of cocoa powder, and just the right amount of sweetness. It’s smooth, rich, and totally satisfying—perfect for summer BBQs, neighborhood gatherings, or just as a smart snack to keep on hand.

Melanie called it a crowd-pleaser, and we couldn’t agree more. “What stood out to me,” she said, “is how this recipe speaks to everyone, from kids to adults. It’s indulgent without being overly sweet, and it’s so easy to make.”

Catch the full live cooking class to see Melanie in action and hear her expert tips. Trust us, you’ll want to make this part of your summer lineup.

Healthy Ingredients That Shine

Chickpeas: Packed with protein and fiber, chickpeas make this dish filling and help support weight management and digestive health.

Ripe Bananas: These bring natural sweetness and are a fantastic source of potassium, which supports heart health and balances sodium levels. The darker the banana, the better for this recipe.  

Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Rich in antioxidants, cocoa powder can help reduce inflammation, enhance brain function, and, of course, satisfy your chocolate cravings.

Almond Butter: A heart-healthy fat source, almond butter is packed with minerals and provides a subtle, nutty flavor.

Maple Syrup: A natural alternative to refined sugar, it adds a hint of sweetness without the inflammation of white sugar.

Vanilla Extract and Plant-Based Milk (like almond or oat): These round out the flavor and ensure the hummus is creamy and vegan-friendly.

Nutritional Powerhouse

What makes this Chocolate Banana Hummus stand out is it’s nutritional profile. With 7 grams of protein and 6 grams of fiber per serving, each portion delivers a mix of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Whether you're looking to manage weight, stabilize blood sugar levels, or simply enjoy a guilt-free treat, this recipe has you covered.

Easy To Make

One of the best things about Chocolate Banana Hummus is how quickly it comes together. Here’s the process we followed in the class:
•    Add all the ingredients (chickpeas, ripe banana, cocoa powder, almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and plant-based milk) to a food processor or high-power blender.
•    Blend everything until smooth, gradually adding more milk to achieve your desired consistency.
•    Adjust sweetness or chocolate flavor by adding a touch more maple syrup or cocoa powder, if needed.
•    Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.

That’s it! You’ll have a bowl of creamy, chocolaty hummus in just a few minutes.

Here’s how you can enjoy or serve it:

Family BBQs: Pair it with fresh fruits like strawberries, pineapple wedges, or apple slices for a refreshing sweet platter.

Block Parties: Create an eye-catching platter with an assortment of dips, pretzels, graham crackers, and raw veggies like jicama sticks for that extra crunch.

Meal Prep: Pack individual servings as a snack or dessert option for the week. Include crackers or a small side of fruits for dipping.

School Lunches: It’s a snack kids love that you can feel good about giving them.

Try It Yourself and Taste the Difference

Published June 1, 2025