A simple, cold snack for Baby-led Weaning (from ~10 months): soft banana cut into bite-sized finger pieces, coated on the outside with finely chopped or ground almonds for texture and nutrients. Always supervise while giving.

1. Wash hands and clean the work surface.
2. Check almonds: no mold or foreign matter; keep them whole, but never give the child a whole nut.
3. Chop the almonds very finely or briefly crush in a small blender until coarse crumbs form (not a completely liquid almond paste). Alternatively crush in a mortar. Goal: chunky, but not large, hard pieces so the baby can chew.
4. Peel the banana and halve lengthwise, then divide each half again lengthwise so that elongated finger pieces result (better than slices for the BLW grip). The pieces should be thick enough that the child can hold them well (about 1–1.5 cm thick).
5. Gently press each banana long piece and roll carefully in the chopped almonds or press the almonds onto the banana with your fingers so they stick.
6. Optional: a very light touch of cinnamon on top (less than a pinch) is possible if the child already knows it – not necessary.
7. Arrange on a small plate and serve immediately. Never let them eat unsupervised; have them sit up, not lying down.

Summary

A cold, simple BLW snack made from 15 g almonds and 60 g banana (finger shape). The almonds are very finely chopped or crushed, not given as a whole nut.

Storage

Freshly made bananas with almonds taste best and should be offered immediately. Prepared almonds (crushed) keep, tightly sealed, in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. Bananas topped with almonds should not be stored in the refrigerator for longer than 2–4 hours (they soften and brown quickly).

Allergies and side effects

Almonds are tree nuts – high allergy potential. Introduce new allergens gradually and consult with a pediatrician if necessary. Never give whole nuts (risk of choking). On the first try, monitor a small amount (up to 2 hours) for allergic reactions (rash, swelling, shortness of breath). Always supervise while eating.