Pin Creamy peanut butter and sweet banana slices get a chocolate-dipped makeover in these irresistible frozen pops. Whether you are looking for an easy after-school snack or a party treat that brings everyone running to the freezer, these banana pops come together with hardly any effort and disappear even faster. My kids beg for these whenever the weather heats up and they are so simple to prep ahead for busy weeks.
I started making these banana pops one sticky summer day when my little ones were bored and snacky. They have since become our go-to treat for cooling off after the pool or celebrating birthdays without turning on the oven.
Ingredients
- Ripe bananas: give a naturally sweet base and smooth texture. Look for bananas with some brown spots for the most flavor
- Creamy peanut butter: delivers richness. Pure varieties with just peanuts and salt give the cleanest flavor
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: provide a lovely balance of sweetness and chocolatey depth. Use quality baking chocolate for smoother melting
- Coconut oil: ensures the melted chocolate coats the pops in a glossy shell. Virgin coconut oil adds a light tropical note
- Chopped roasted peanuts: add a salty crunch. Freshly roasted nuts stay crisp and flavorful
- Sprinkles: create playful color and excitement. Choose naturally colored sprinkles for a festive yet wholesome finish
Instructions
- Prepare the Tray:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This is vital for easily removing the pops once frozen without sticking
- Prepare the Bananas:
- Peel the bananas and use a sharp knife to cut them into half-inch rounds. You want even slices so the pops hold together well and freeze uniformly
- Make the Sandwiches:
- Spread half a teaspoon of creamy peanut butter onto half of the banana slices. Carefully top each with another slice to form little banana sandwiches
- Insert Sticks:
- Gently push a popsicle stick or lollipop stick into each banana sandwich. Press softly so the bananas stay together without breaking
- Initial Freeze:
- Arrange the pops on the prepared tray in a single layer. Freeze for one hour so the bananas become firm enough for dipping
- Melt the Chocolate:
- Place chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in intervals of twenty seconds stirring after each interval until the mixture is completely melted and smooth
- Dip the Pops:
- Working quickly dip each frozen banana sandwich into the chocolate allowing excess to drip off. Immediately sprinkle on chopped peanuts or sprinkles if using so they stick while the chocolate is wet
- Final Freeze:
- Return the dipped pops to the tray. Freeze for another hour so the chocolate sets into a crisp shell
- Serve:
- Enjoy the pops straight from the freezer for the perfect frosty treat and best texture
Pin Peanut butter is always the star for me. I love using freshly ground peanut butter from the market—it practically melts into the banana and gives that extra punch of roasted flavor. Seeing my kids line up at the freezer with sticky smiles is a memory that makes all the prepping worth it.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover pops in an airtight container in the freezer. They keep best for up to one week. Layer parchment paper between pops to prevent them sticking together. Let pops sit at room temperature for two minutes before eating if they are super hard
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap almond or cashew butter for peanut butter if you want a different nutty taste. Use sunflower seed butter for a totally nut-free version. Try dark or milk chocolate if you have a preference for sweetness or intensity
Serving Suggestions
Serve these banana pops at kids’ parties with extra toppings like crushed cookies or mini chocolate chips in separate bowls. Arrange on a cake stand for a special occasion dessert spread. Tuck a couple in a lunchbox with an ice pack for a chilly midday treat
Cultural and Historical Context
Bananas chocolate and peanuts are classic American flavors that show up in everything from Southern pies to classic milkshakes. Freezer pops like these became extra popular in the United States during the 1970s when quick-serve snacks and DIY party treats really took off for busy families.
Pin Your freezer will never be the same once you try these chocolate-dipped pops. Simple to make and irresistibly fun, they are sure to become a favorite summer treat for all ages.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking?
Ensure the melted chocolate isn’t too hot when dipping and allow banana pops to firm up slightly after the first dip before freezing again.
- → Can I use other nut butters?
Yes, almond or cashew butter work well. For allergies, sunflower seed butter is a great alternative.
- → How long do banana pops need to freeze?
Freeze initially for at least 1 hour before dipping in chocolate, then freeze again for an additional hour to set the coating.
- → Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! Milk, dark, or white chocolate all pair nicely with bananas and peanut butter.
- → How should I store banana pops?
Keep them in an airtight container in the freezer and enjoy within 1 week for best texture and freshness.
- → What are some fun topping alternatives?
Try shredded coconut, crushed pretzels, or mini chocolate chips in place of peanuts or sprinkles.