Breakfast Banana Split

Feel free to use the recipe as a framework, adding more or less of the various ingredients as preferred.

Yield: 1 serving

Ingredients

1 ripe, yet firm banana, peeled
1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain, vanilla, or your flavor of choice; may also use cottage cheese)
1/3 cup fresh berries of choice, cherries, and/or chopped pineapple*
3-4 tablespoons granola
1-2 tablespoons peanut butter or nut butter of choice, Nutella, or jam
Other options: sliced almonds or other nuts, shredded coconut, and/or chocolate chips

Split the banana lengthwise and lay the two halves in a shallow bowl. For a fun look, use an ice cream scoop to scoop out the yogurt and place it on top of the banana. Distribute the fruit over the plate, and then sprinkle with the granola.
Melt the peanut butter or topping of choice in the microwave until it is very runny. I melt peanut butter in two 15-20 second bursts; Nutella and jam require slightly less time in my microwave. Use a spoon to drizzle the topping over all, add any of the optional extras, and enjoy!

*Pineapple is a delicious option for those who don’t care for bananas. My older son isn’t a banana fan, so for his version I sometimes cut spears of pineapple to make it look more like the traditional split. That said, it’s easier for kids to eat if the pineapple is cut into bite-size pieces and arranged on the plate.
*The tartness of plain yogurt can be a turnoff to many children–and some adults. When I use plain yogurt, I usually stir in a drizzle of pure maple syrup for my boys. It adds a hint of sweetness that can be easily controlled. You may also find that the addition of granola, fresh fruit, etc., alleviates the need for a really sweet yogurt. Lastly, full fat or even low-fat yogurt will taste smoother than nonfat.