Banana Popsicles

These banana popsicles are the perfect refreshing treat on a hot summer day! They’re unbelievably easy to make, require only a few basic ingredients, and showcase the natural sweetness and creamy texture of ripe bananas.

With only 4 base ingredients, these chocolate banana popsicles are a breeze to make and perfect for a healthy, cooling snack. For another fruity frozen treat, check out my strawberry watermelon smoothie.

Why I Love This Recipe

When summer rolls around, I always have a batch of popsicles in my freezer. But, store-bought options often contain less-than-desirable ingredients. That’s why I love to prepare homemade banana popsicles that are actually healthy for you!

Simply combine ripe bananas, vegan yogurt, maple syrup, and salt in a blender, then freeze the mixture in popsicle molds. The creamy texture of cashew-based yogurt combined with the natural sweetness of bananas creates a deliciously smooth and sweet treat.

Once frozen, dip them in melted dark chocolate and sprinkle crushed peanuts on top for an irresistible combination. These popsicles are also cost-effective, making them ideal if you have a large family to feed or are on a budget!

Ingredient Notes

Here’s a full breakdown of everything you’ll need for these chocolate banana popsicles:

• Bananas: Give the popsicles a natural sweetness and creamy texture. Make sure your bananas are nice and spotty for the best flavor and consistency.
• Vegan Yogurt: Provides extra creaminess and a slight tanginess. You can use any brand and variety you want, but I prefer the taste and texture of Trader Joe’s cashew yogurt. Both vanilla and regular yogurt work well in this recipe.
• Maple Syrup: For a touch more sweetness and caramel-like notes. Use 100% pure maple syrup, not pancake syrup.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavors, bringing out the sweetness of the banana and yogurt.
• Chocolate Chips: For a rich, decadent coating. Use any brand of dark, vegan-friendly chocolate chips you prefer.
• Coconut Oil: Helps thin the chocolate for easier dipping. I opt for cold-pressed, unrefined coconut oi, but you can use refined (flavorless) coconut oil for a more neutral taste.
• Crushed Peanuts: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. Make sure they’re toasted!

Substitutions

• Bananas: Bananas provide a unique flavor and texture, but if you’re fresh out you can try an equivalent amount of mangoes for a similar texture with juicier, tangier notes.
• Yogurt: Coconut yogurt will also work for a more tropical flavor while maintaining the creamy texture.
• Maple Syrup: If you don’t have maple syrup, agave will provide a similar sweetness with a slightly milder flavor. Use the same amount.

How to Make

Making these chocolate banana popsicles couldn’t be easier or quicker! Just follow all my tips and tricks for the best results:

Preparation

First, remove the peels from the bananas. Gather all other ingredients and have your popsicle molds and sticks ready. Ensure your bananas are ripe for maximum sweetness.

Assembly

Step 1
Blend the bananas, yogurt, maple syrup, and salt in a high-speed blender until the consistency is smooth. Stop and scrape down the sides a few times if needed, then taste and add more maple syrup if you prefer more sweetness.

Step 2
Divide the mixture evenly into molds and insert popsicle sticks. Freeze the banana popsicles for 5-6 hours until solid. Tap the molds gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles before freezing them.

Step 3
Once the popsicles are frozen solid, place the molds under warm running water for a few seconds until the popsicles can easily slide out. Or, you can simply dip the molds into warm water for about 20-30 seconds to help pull them out.

Step 4
Melt the chocolate chips in a saucepan over a low while continuously stirring. Then, add the coconut oil to help thin out the consistency.

Step 5
Dip your banana popsicles into the melted chocolate coating about halfway. You can also drizzle the chocolate over the popsicles if you prefer. Lastly, sprinkle over some crushed peanuts and enjoy!

Expert Tip

Bananas are the main ingredient in this recipe, so ensure you use ripe bananas as they are sweeter and blend into a creamier texture. You’ll know they’re ready when you start seeing tons of little brown spots on the peels.

Also, before dipping them, make sure your banana popsicles are completely frozen to get a quick and even coating of chocolate. Let the excess chocolate drip off before adding peanuts to avoid clumping.

Variations

• Berries: Mix in some blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, or sliced strawberries for a burst of flavor and color.
• Protein Boost: Add a scoop of your favorite vegan protein powder to the mixture for a protein-packed snack. Try vanilla, coffee, or chocolate for the perfect pairing!
• Spiced: Sprinkle a little cinnamon, cardamom, or nutmeg into the mix before freezing for a warm spiced note.
• Toppings: Try other toppings like coconut flakes, goji berries, pistachios, or cacao nibs for flavor and texture variations.

Recipe Tips

• Stir chocolate continuously: Stirring the chocolate constantly while it’s melting prevents it from burning and results in a smooth coating.
• Chill the Molds: While not completely necessary, pre-freezing your popsicle molds for a few hours or overnight helps the mixture freeze more evenly.
• Insert the Sticks Carefully: Once you place the molds in the freezer, double-check the popsicle sticks to ensure they are standing straight and are well-supported.
• Double-Dip: For a thicker chocolate shell, try double-dipping the popsicles.
• Sprinkle Peanuts Immediately: Sprinkle the peanuts right after dipping each popsicle into the chocolate mixture so they stick to the chocolate before it solidifies.
• Freeze on a Level Surface: This prevents the popsicles from tilting and freezing unevenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Storing

These chocolate banana popsicles should be transferred and kept in the freezer immediately after blending them. Store them in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy one, just remove it from the freezer, let it stand for a minute or two, and enjoy!

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