On a warm summer evening, nothing beats a refreshing treat that transports you right back to childhood. Recently, while searching for a guilt-free dessert, I rediscovered the incredible fusion of flavors in these Peanut Butter and Banana Popsicles. With just three simple ingredients—ripe bananas, creamy peanut butter, and rich dark chocolate—this recipe satisfies all cravings without any fuss.
As I peeled away the bananas and stirred my favorite peanut butter, the blend of nostalgia and excitement filled my kitchen. These popsicles not only offer a natural sweetness but also pack enough energy to power through those lazy afternoons. And the best part? They’re super easy to whip up, letting you indulge in a deliciously cool treat while steering clear of fast food and artificial flavors.
So, whether it’s an after-school snack or a fun family dessert, come along and let’s create something delightful together! Trust me, you won’t want to miss this deliciously simple treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Why Peanut Butter and Banana Popsicles Will Delight You?
Simplicity at its finest: With only three ingredients, you can easily bring this wholesome treat together. Irresistible flavor: The rich combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet bananas delights your taste buds. Guilt-free indulgence: Satisfy your sweet tooth without the added sugars or preservatives found in store-bought pops. Versatile fun: Add your favorite toppings like nuts or sprinkles for a personalized twist. Time-saving: Just blend, freeze, and enjoy—no complicated steps! Perfect for both kids and adults, these popsicles are a crowd-pleasing dessert that everyone will love.
Peanut Butter and Banana Popsicle Ingredients
Unlock the secret to making these delicious homemade treats!
For the Popsicles
- Bananas – The star of this recipe; ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and a creamy texture.
- Peanut Butter – Adds creaminess and a rich, nutty flavor; opt for natural, unsweetened varieties for a healthier twist.
- Dark Chocolate Chips – Use high-quality dark chocolate for dipping; it adds a decadent touch that perfectly complements the popsicles.
These simple yet delightful Peanut Butter and Banana Popsicles will be a hit at your next gathering!
How to Make Peanut Butter and Banana Popsicles
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Peel and Slice: Start by peeling the bananas and cutting them into coins. Place the banana slices in a freezer-safe glass bowl or bag. Freeze for at least 2 hours, leaving them overnight for the best texture.
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Process the Bananas: Once the bananas are frozen, break them up and add half of them to your food processor. Pulse the banana pieces until they’re small and even, then blend on low until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
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Mix in Peanut Butter: Add half of the peanut butter to the blender and give it a quick blend for a few seconds, allowing air to aerate the mixture. Remove the mixture and load it into a piping bag. Fill half of your popsicle molds and give them a gentle tap on the counter to remove air bubbles before freezing.
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Freeze: Let the popsicles freeze overnight so they can set completely, providing a perfect base for the chocolate coat.
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Melt the Chocolate: When ready, melt the chocolate in a tall, narrow, microwave-safe bowl. Microwave the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until it’s smooth. Allow it to cool briefly before dipping.
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Unmold the Popsicles: To remove the popsicles, fill a sink with hot water and hold the molds in the water for about 5 seconds. Firmly pull the stick straight up, avoiding any rocking motion to get a clean release.
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Dip and Set: Dip each popsicle into the melted chocolate and set them on a parchment-lined sheet pan. If desired, sprinkle your favorite toppings before placing the sheet tray in the freezer for about 10 minutes to set.
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of extra peanut butter for delightful flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Peanut Butter and Banana Popsicles
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Choose Ripe Bananas: Look for bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness. Overripe bananas blend smoothly and add natural flavor.
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Blending Technique: Pulse the frozen bananas first, then blend on low to achieve a creamy texture. Avoid over-blending, which can make them too runny.
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Temperature Control: Let the chocolate cool slightly before dipping to prevent it from melting your popsicles. A warm but not hot dip gives the best coating.
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Seal and Store: If you have leftovers, wrap the popsicles in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
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Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with nuts, shredded coconut, or miniature marshmallows. A sprinkle adds fun and flavor to your Peanut Butter and Banana Popsicles!
Make Ahead Options
These Peanut Butter and Banana Popsicles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can freeze the banana slices up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a quick blend and assembly on a busy day. Simply peel and slice the bananas, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and store until you’re ready to whip up the popsicles. The peanut butter can also be measured and mixed ahead of time, keeping your prep streamlined. When you’re ready to serve, blend the frozen bananas with the prepped peanut butter, fill your molds, and freeze overnight for deliciously creamy pops that are just as delightful as if you made them fresh!
What to Serve with Peanut Butter and Banana Popsicles?
On a warm day, these delightful treats deserve the perfect accompaniment to create a memorable experience.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits balances the creaminess of the popsicles, adding a refreshing and juicy element.
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Chilled Yogurt Parfait: Layering creamy yogurt with granola and berries offers a textural contrast, making for a satisfying dessert bar.
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Nutty Granola Bars: The chewiness of homemade granola bars pairs beautifully with the popsicles, providing an energizing and wholesome snack.
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Chocolate Drizzle on Pancakes: Serve mini pancakes drizzled with chocolate for a fun breakfast treat that mirrors the popsicle’s flavor profile.
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Peanut Butter Smoothie: Complement the peanut butter flavor while adding creaminess. A smoothie can create a luscious, layered dessert experience.
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Milkshake Magic: A classic chocolate or banana milkshake enhances the indulgence factor, making a delightful duo that kids will adore.
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Grasshopper Pie: For a twist, serve this minty pie, which contrasts the rich flavors while delivering a cool sensation that’s irresistibly refreshing.
Enjoy creating your summer feast with these pairings, transforming ordinary moments into sweet memories!
How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter and Banana Popsicles
Fridge: Store any unconsumed popsicles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain their texture and flavor.
Freezer: For long-term storage, keep the popsicles in a freezer-safe bag or container, separated by parchment paper. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Reheating: While these popsicles are best enjoyed frozen, if they soften slightly, you can refreezing them for a quick cool-down before serving.
Serving: Let them sit at room temperature for a couple of minutes before pulling them out for a perfect bite. Enjoy your Peanut Butter and Banana Popsicles!
Peanut Butter and Banana Popsicles Variations
Embrace your inner chef and explore delightful options to personalize your popsicles!
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Nut-Free: Substitute peanut butter with sun butter for a nut-free version that everyone can enjoy. It still gives a creamy texture and nutty flavor.
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Chocolate-Coconut: Mix in shredded coconut when blending the bananas and peanut butter for a tropical twist that adds a chewy texture.
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Fruit Infusion: Blend in a handful of strawberries or blueberries for a fruity burst of flavor. This colorful addition brightens up your popsicles and makes them even more enticing!
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Protein Boost: Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the banana and peanut butter mixture. This option not only enhances the nutrition but also makes for a filling snack.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the chocolate for a surprising heat that beautifully contrasts with the sweet popsicles.
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Dairy-Free: Switch to dairy-free chocolate chips for a completely vegan option. Full of flavor, these will satisfy without any dairy!
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Greek Yogurt Creaminess: Stir in a generous spoonful of Greek yogurt into the banana-peanut butter blend for added creaminess and a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
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Dessert Delight: Drizzle with honey or maple syrup before serving for an extra sweet touch that elevates your homemade treats to dessert status!
Peanut Butter and Banana Popsicles Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe bananas for the popsicles?
Absolutely! Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots or even ones that are fully brown. These overripe bananas offer maximum sweetness and blend smoothly, giving your Peanut Butter and Banana Popsicles a rich, creamy texture that’s simply irresistible.
How should I store leftover popsicles?
To keep your popsicles fresh, wrap any unconsumed ones in plastic wrap or place them an airtight container. They can stay in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you wish to keep them for longer, store them in a freezer-safe bag, ideally separated by parchment paper. This way, they will maintain their delicious flavor for up to 2 months!
Can I freeze the popsicles? How do I do it?
Absolutely! Freezing makes these popsicles last longer and keeps them refreshingly cool. After preparing the popsicles, let them freeze overnight until fully set. To store, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, separating each popsicle with parchment to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, let them sit at room temperature for a couple of minutes before pulling them out of the molds.
What should I do if my popsicles are too hard to remove from the mold?
No worries! If your popsicles are stubbornly stuck, fill a sink with hot water and dip just the bottom of the molds into the water for about 5 seconds. This will gently warm the outside and help loosen the popsicles. Then, pull the popsicle sticks firmly straight up without rocking, and they should pop right out!
Are there any dietary considerations I should know about?
Very! If you’re serving these popsicles to kids or guests, keep in mind that some may have peanut allergies. You can substitute the peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version. Additionally, check the chocolate chips for any allergens and opt for dairy-free chocolate if you’re catering to a dairy-free diet. Just as delicious!
Can I customize the toppings for my popsicles?
The more the merrier! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. You can use chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even a sprinkle of colorful sprinkles for added fun. Just keep in mind that if you add wet toppings, they may affect the popsicles’ texture when stored. Enjoy your Peanut Butter and Banana Popsicles your way!
Peanut Butter and Banana Popsicles for a Sweet Summer Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel and slice the bananas into coins and freeze for at least 2 hours.
- Process the frozen bananas in a food processor until smooth and creamy.
- Mix in peanut butter and fill popsicle molds, tap to remove air bubbles.
- Freeze overnight for best texture.
- Melt chocolate in 30-second intervals until smooth, cool slightly.
- Unmold popsicles by briefly holding molds in hot water.
- Dip popsicles in melted chocolate and set on parchment-lined sheet pan.
- Optional: Sprinkle with toppings and freeze again to set for 10 minutes.