Let's Talk about Peanut and Chocolate Banana Snakes

Corn Snake (image source)

Yes, it does say snakes (not shakes).  I'm reading The Burn Palace by Stephyn Dobyns which features a snake in its opening scene.  Since snake isn't something I'm likely to find in my grocery store, I found this really cute and cool recipe for a peanut and chocolate banana snake.  This looks easy and fun and would be great for kids on Halloween or to bring as a pot luck item!

(image source)

Peanut and Chocolate Banana Snake

Ingredients

1/2 cup(s) heavy cream
1 cup(s) bittersweet chocolate chips (6 oz)
6 small firm-ripe bananas (about 6 in. long)
1 package(s) peanut butter chocolate candies (such as Reese’s Pieces)
1 piece(s) red fruit leather (such as Fruit Roll-Ups)
Crushed chocolate wafer cookies, for serving

Directions

1. Place the heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high until simmering, about 1 minute. Add the chocolate chips and let stand for 2 minutes, then stir until melted and smooth.
2. Working with 3 bananas at a time, peel, then slice a 1-in. piece off both ends of 1 banana and only one end of the remaining 2. Arrange the bananas on a platter, matching up the cut ends to form the snake's body. Spread chocolate mixture evenly over the bananas so they are completely covered. Repeat with the remaining 3 bananas to make a second snake. If the chocolate mixture seems very soft, refrigerate until just slightly firm, about 10 minutes (and no more than 15).
3. Arrange the candies on the bananas, pressing them in gently to create scales, leaving 2 in. of the chocolate from one end uncovered to form the snake heads (shown, below). Cut 2 tongues from the fruit leather and place at the bottom of the head ends. Cut 2 candies in half and place on the top of the heads for the eyes. Spoon the crushed cookies around the snakes, if desired.

Weekend Cooking 

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