I absolutely love this recipe because it combines the nostalgic sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich indulgence of semisweet chocolate, all while being super easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. Plus, the colorful toppings like nuts, coconut, and sprinkles let me get creative and add a fun, personalized touch that makes this treat perfect for Instagram-worthy moments!
Creating recipes that blend indulgence with a soupçon of nutritional benefits is something I really enjoy. My Springtime Frozen Choco Bananas are a deliciously satisfying treat!
Ripe bananas and semisweet chocolate chips are the core ingredients. I add a little bit of coconut oil to the mixture to make it smoother and easier to work with, but not because it needs any help tasting delicious!
A combination of chopped nuts and optional shredded coconut or sprinkles gives these pops wonderful texture and a look that’ll make you want to dive in face first.
Ingredients
Potassium, fiber, and natural sweetness define bananas.
Semisweet chocolate chips: Provide a deep, rich flavor; are a source of antioxidants.
Coconut oil: Delivers healthful fats for a silky-smooth chocolate coating.
Nuts,, when chopped, offer not only a crunchy texture but also a protein boost.
Coconut, Shredded: Use only if you want to add a tropical flavor and texture; it is not necessary.
Ingredient Quantities
- 4 ripe bananas
- 8 oz (about 225g) semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, peanuts, or walnuts)
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
- Colorful sprinkles (optional)
- 8 wooden popsicle sticks
Instructions
1. Remove the bananas from their skins and cut them in half across their centers. Take a wooden popsicle stick and stick it into the center of each banana half so that it resembles a banana split in two. Lay the hobbled bananas on a parchment-lined baking sheet and place it in the freezer for a reasonable amount of time—say, overnight—to ensure that the bananas are firm.
2. In a bowl that is safe to use in the microwave, combine the semisweet chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave them in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until they are entirely melted and smooth.
3. The toppings are prepared by placing the chopped nuts, shredded coconut, and colorful sprinkles on separate shallow plates.
4. Take the frozen bananas out of the freezer. Dip each piece of banana into the melted chocolate, using a spoon to ensure that it is coated evenly.
5. Let excess chocolate drip off while holding the banana momentarily above the bowl.
6. Roll or sprinkle your choice of nuts, shredded coconut, and vibrant sprinkles immediately onto the chocolate-coated bananas.
7. Return the coated bananas to the baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. After coating and topping all the bananas, put them back in the freezer for 30–60 minutes. Wait until the chocolate is completely hard before moving on to the next step.
9. Take the bananas out of the freezer and allow them to remain at room temperature for a few minutes. This will enable the bananas to soften just a bit before you serve them.
10. Relish your delightful Springtime Frozen Choco Bananas as a refreshing snack or dessert!
Equipment Needed
1. Cutting board
2. Knife
3. Baking sheet
4. Parchment paper
5. Microwave-safe bowl
6. Spoon
7. Shallow plates (for toppings)
8. Freezer
FAQ
- Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate chips?Certainly! If you would like a sweeter coating on your bananas, you can use milk chocolate in place of the semisweet chocolate chips called for in the recipe.
- How long should I freeze the bananas?For a minimum of 2 hours, or until they are solid and the chocolate has set, place the bananas in the freezer.
- Can I omit the coconut oil?Coconut oil assists the chocolate in achieving a smooth consistency, making it a good option for coating bananas. While you can exclude it, doing so may result in a texture that’s less creamy and more brittle or chalky, but it won’t affect the taste.
- What can I use if I don’t have popsicle sticks?As an alternative, you can use skewers, chopsticks, or even sturdy straws.
- What other toppings can I use besides nuts, coconut, and sprinkles?For added taste and texture, crushed cookies, granola, or dried fruit can also be used.
- How long can I store the frozen choco bananas?An airtight container in the freezer holds them for as long as two weeks.
- Is it necessary to peel the bananas before freezing them?Peel the bananas before you insert the sticks and freeze them. This makes them easier to coat with chocolate and to eat as a frozen treat.
Substitutions and Variations
Semisweet chocolate chips: For a different flavor, substitute with dark chocolate chips or milk chocolate chips.
Coconut oil: If preferred, use butter or vegetable oil as a substitute.
Nuts that have been chopped: For a substitution, use seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free alternative.
Coconut, shredded: Use crushed graham crackers, if preferred. Otherwise, simply leave it out.
Brightly colored sprinkles: Substitute with mini chocolate chips or leave out entirely for a less sweet version.
Pro Tips
1. Use Ripe but Firm Bananas: Choose bananas that are ripe for sweetness but still firm enough to hold their shape after freezing. Overripe bananas can become mushy and difficult to work with.
2. Chill Your Equipment: Before starting, place your mixing bowl and any utensils used for melting chocolate in the fridge. This can help maintain the chocolate’s temperature, ensuring a smooth and even coating on the bananas.
3. Double Boiler Method: If you’re not microwaving, consider using a double boiler to melt the chocolate and coconut oil gently. This method provides more control over the heat and can prevent the chocolate from burning.
4. Rotate for Even Coating: When dipping the bananas in chocolate, rotate them carefully to cover completely. Use a spoon to pour chocolate over any missed spots, which helps achieve an even coating.
5. Customize Toppings: For a more personalized treat, consider mixing nuts with a sprinkle of sea salt or adding a touch of cinnamon to the shredded coconut. This can enhance the flavors and add a unique twist to your banana pops.
Springtime Frozen Choco Bananas Recipe
My favorite Springtime Frozen Choco Bananas Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Cutting board
2. Knife
3. Baking sheet
4. Parchment paper
5. Microwave-safe bowl
6. Spoon
7. Shallow plates (for toppings)
8. Freezer
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe bananas
- 8 oz (about 225g) semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, peanuts, or walnuts)
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
- Colorful sprinkles (optional)
- 8 wooden popsicle sticks
Instructions:
1. Remove the bananas from their skins and cut them in half across their centers. Take a wooden popsicle stick and stick it into the center of each banana half so that it resembles a banana split in two. Lay the hobbled bananas on a parchment-lined baking sheet and place it in the freezer for a reasonable amount of time—say, overnight—to ensure that the bananas are firm.
2. In a bowl that is safe to use in the microwave, combine the semisweet chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave them in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until they are entirely melted and smooth.
3. The toppings are prepared by placing the chopped nuts, shredded coconut, and colorful sprinkles on separate shallow plates.
4. Take the frozen bananas out of the freezer. Dip each piece of banana into the melted chocolate, using a spoon to ensure that it is coated evenly.
5. Let excess chocolate drip off while holding the banana momentarily above the bowl.
6. Roll or sprinkle your choice of nuts, shredded coconut, and vibrant sprinkles immediately onto the chocolate-coated bananas.
7. Return the coated bananas to the baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. After coating and topping all the bananas, put them back in the freezer for 30–60 minutes. Wait until the chocolate is completely hard before moving on to the next step.
9. Take the bananas out of the freezer and allow them to remain at room temperature for a few minutes. This will enable the bananas to soften just a bit before you serve them.
10. Relish your delightful Springtime Frozen Choco Bananas as a refreshing snack or dessert!
