Summer in our house is synonymous with popsicles. While store-bought options are convenient, they often come loaded with artificial flavors, colors, and excessive sugar. This year, I decided to take matters into my own hands and experiment with homemade popsicles. Enter the Choco Banana Popsicle – a recipe born out of a craving for something sweet, healthy-ish, and incredibly easy to make. Let me tell you, these weren’t just a hit; they were a home run! From my picky toddler to my health-conscious partner, everyone devoured them. The creamy banana base, the satisfying crunch of chocolate, and the overall simplicity of the recipe made these Choco Banana Popsicles an instant family favorite. They are perfect for a hot afternoon treat, a guilt-free dessert, or even a fun activity to do with the kids. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be making them all summer long!
Ingredients for Delicious Choco Banana Popsicles
- Ripe Bananas (4 large): The star of the show! Ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and a creamy texture, making these popsicles naturally delicious and healthy. Look for bananas with brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Greek Yogurt (1/2 cup): Adds creaminess and a slight tang, while also boosting the protein content. You can use full-fat, low-fat, or non-fat depending on your preference. For a dairy-free option, use coconut yogurt or another plant-based yogurt.
- Cocoa Powder (1/4 cup): Unsweetened cocoa powder provides that rich chocolate flavor we all crave. Dutch-processed cocoa powder will give a smoother, less bitter chocolate taste, but regular unsweetened cocoa powder works just as well.
- Maple Syrup (2-3 tablespoons): A natural sweetener that complements the banana and chocolate flavors beautifully. Adjust the amount to your desired sweetness. You can also use honey or agave nectar if preferred. For a sugar-free option, use a sugar-free maple syrup alternative or stevia to taste.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a touch of warmth and depth. Pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best taste.
- Chocolate Chips or Chocolate Bar (1/2 cup): For that irresistible chocolate coating and crunch! Use your favorite type of chocolate – dark, milk, or semi-sweet. For a richer chocolate experience, use dark chocolate. You can use chocolate chips for convenience or chop up a chocolate bar for a more gourmet touch.
- Coconut Oil (1 tablespoon): Helps to melt the chocolate smoothly and creates a nice, glossy finish when the chocolate hardens. It also adds a subtle coconut flavor that complements the banana and chocolate. You can substitute with vegetable oil or butter if you prefer.
- Optional Toppings (Nuts, Sprinkles, Shredded Coconut): For extra flair and flavor! Get creative and add your favorite toppings after dipping the popsicles in chocolate. Chopped nuts, colorful sprinkles, and shredded coconut are all fantastic options.
Instructions: How to Make Choco Banana Popsicles
- Prepare the Bananas: Peel the bananas and slice them into 1-inch thick pieces. This will make them easier to blend and fit into popsicle molds.
- Freeze the Bananas: Place the banana slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for at least 2-3 hours, or until completely frozen solid. Freezing the bananas beforehand is crucial for achieving a creamy, popsicle-like texture and prevents the mixture from becoming icy.
- Blend the Popsicle Base: Once the bananas are frozen, transfer them to a high-speed blender or food processor. Add the Greek yogurt, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Blend Until Smooth: Blend all the ingredients until you achieve a completely smooth and creamy mixture. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the blender a few times to ensure everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be thick and resemble a soft-serve ice cream consistency.
- Fill the Popsicle Molds: Pour or spoon the banana mixture into popsicle molds, leaving a little space at the top for expansion during freezing. If you don’t have popsicle molds, you can use paper cups or small plastic containers.
- Insert Popsicle Sticks: Insert popsicle sticks into the center of each mold. If using paper cups, let the popsicles freeze for about 30 minutes before inserting the sticks to help them stand upright.
- Freeze Until Solid: Freeze the popsicles for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight, until they are completely frozen solid and firm to the touch. This ensures they are easy to unmold and hold their shape.
- Prepare the Chocolate Coating: While the popsicles are freezing, prepare the chocolate coating. In a microwave-safe bowl or a double boiler, combine the chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate bar) and coconut oil.
- Melt the Chocolate: Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. If using a double boiler, heat over simmering water, stirring constantly until melted. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can burn.
- Unmold the Popsicles: Once the popsicles are frozen solid, unmold them from the molds. To make unmolding easier, you can briefly dip the bottom of the molds in warm water for a few seconds. Gently wiggle and pull the popsicles out.
- Dip in Chocolate: Working quickly, dip each popsicle into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off.
- Add Toppings (Optional): If desired, immediately sprinkle the chocolate-coated popsicles with your favorite toppings like chopped nuts, sprinkles, or shredded coconut before the chocolate sets.
- Harden the Chocolate: Place the chocolate-dipped popsicles on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate. Return them to the freezer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the chocolate coating to harden completely.
- Enjoy!: Once the chocolate is hardened, your delicious Choco Banana Popsicles are ready to be enjoyed! Store any leftover popsicles in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Nutrition Facts for Choco Banana Popsicles
(Per Serving – Approximately 1 Popsicle)
- Servings: 6-8 popsicles (depending on mold size)
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 calories (depending on chocolate and sweetener used)
- Protein: 3-5 grams
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used and serving size. For more accurate information, use a nutritional calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.
Preparation Time for Choco Banana Popsicles
- Prep Time: 15-20 minutes (including slicing bananas and blending)
- Freezing Time (Bananas): 2-3 hours
- Freezing Time (Popsicles): 4-6 hours (or overnight)
- Total Time: Approximately 6-9 hours (including freezing time)
- Active Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes (actual hands-on time)
Description: While the total preparation time includes significant freezing time, the active time involved in making these Choco Banana Popsicles is minimal and very straightforward. This recipe is perfect for meal prepping or making ahead of time for a refreshing treat whenever you need it.
How to Serve Choco Banana Popsicles
These Choco Banana Popsicles are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways to elevate your dessert experience. Here are some ideas:
- Classic Popsicle Style: Simply enjoy them straight out of the freezer as a refreshing and convenient treat. Perfect for hot days and quick snacks.
- Dessert Platter Addition: Include Choco Banana Popsicles as part of a larger dessert platter. Pair them with fresh fruits like berries or sliced oranges, cookies, or other small sweet treats for a delightful and varied dessert spread.
- With Yogurt and Granola: For a healthier and more substantial snack or light breakfast, crumble a Choco Banana Popsicle over a bowl of yogurt and granola. The cold popsicle will cool down the yogurt and add a burst of flavor and texture.
- Drizzled with Peanut Butter or Nut Butter: For an extra layer of flavor and healthy fats, drizzle melted peanut butter, almond butter, or your favorite nut butter over the chocolate-coated popsicles. This adds a creamy, nutty element that complements the banana and chocolate perfectly.
- Alongside a Smoothie: Serve a Choco Banana Popsicle as a side to a healthy smoothie. It adds a fun and slightly indulgent element to a nutritious meal or snack.
- Party Treat: Choco Banana Popsicles are perfect for parties! They are easy to make in large batches, kid-friendly, and can be customized with various toppings to suit different tastes and themes.
- After-Dinner Dessert: Offer them as a light and refreshing dessert after dinner. They are a satisfying way to end a meal without feeling too heavy.
- Elevated Presentation: For a more elegant presentation, place a Choco Banana Popsicle in a dessert dish and drizzle with extra melted chocolate or a fruit sauce. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a sophisticated touch.
Additional Tips for Perfect Choco Banana Popsicles
- Use Ripe Bananas: Overripe bananas with brown spots are the best for this recipe. They are sweeter and easier to blend, resulting in a naturally sweet and flavorful popsicle without needing excessive added sweetener.
- Freeze Bananas Properly: Ensure the banana slices are completely frozen solid before blending. This is key to achieving a creamy, smooth texture and preventing icy popsicles. Freezing in a single layer on parchment paper prevents them from sticking together.
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Start with the recommended amount of maple syrup (or sweetener) and adjust to your liking. Taste the blended mixture before pouring into molds and add more sweetener if needed. Remember that the chocolate coating will also add sweetness.
- Experiment with Chocolate: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of chocolate for the coating. Dark chocolate provides a richer, more intense flavor, while milk chocolate offers a sweeter, classic taste. You can also use white chocolate or even combine different types for a marbled effect.
- Add Spices for Warmth: For a warmer, more complex flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the popsicle base. These spices complement banana and chocolate beautifully, especially during colder months or for a cozy twist.
- Get Creative with Toppings: The topping possibilities are endless! Besides nuts, sprinkles, and coconut, try crushed cookies, mini chocolate chips, sea salt flakes (for a salty-sweet contrast), chopped dried fruit, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Dairy-Free and Vegan Options: Easily adapt this recipe to be dairy-free and vegan by using plant-based yogurt (like coconut yogurt or almond yogurt) and ensuring your chocolate chips are dairy-free. Most dark chocolate is naturally vegan, but always check the label.
- Make Ahead and Store Properly: Choco Banana Popsicles are perfect for making ahead of time. Once fully frozen and the chocolate is hardened, store them in an airtight container or freezer bags in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. This makes them a convenient and readily available treat whenever you crave one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Choco Banana Popsicles
Q1: Can I use frozen bananas that are already browned?
A: Yes, you can absolutely use frozen bananas that have browned. In fact, they are ideal as they are even sweeter and more flavorful. Browning doesn’t affect their safety or suitability for popsicles.
Q2: Can I make these popsicles without yogurt?
A: Yes, you can omit the yogurt if you prefer. The popsicles will still be delicious, but they might be slightly less creamy. You can replace the yogurt with more banana, a splash of milk (dairy or non-dairy), or a tablespoon of nut butter for added creaminess.
Q3: How do I prevent my popsicles from being icy?
A: The key to preventing icy popsicles is to use frozen bananas and blend them while they are still very cold. The Greek yogurt also helps create a creamier texture. Avoid adding too much liquid to the base mixture. Freezing the bananas solid beforehand is the most crucial step.
Q4: Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
A: Yes, honey is a great alternative to maple syrup and will add a slightly different but equally delicious flavor. Agave nectar or other liquid sweeteners can also be used. Adjust the amount to your desired sweetness.
Q5: How do I store leftover Choco Banana Popsicles?
A: Store leftover popsicles in an airtight container or freezer bags in the freezer. Make sure they are fully frozen and the chocolate coating is hardened before storing. Properly stored popsicles can last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
Q6: My chocolate coating keeps cracking when I bite into the popsicle. How can I prevent this?
A: Adding coconut oil (or another oil) to the melted chocolate helps to make the coating more pliable and less prone to cracking. Ensure the chocolate is not overheated and is melted smoothly. Also, make sure the popsicles are thoroughly frozen before dipping.
Q7: Can I make these popsicles without popsicle molds?
A: Yes! If you don’t have popsicle molds, you can use paper cups, small plastic containers, or even ice cube trays. If using cups, let the popsicles freeze for about 30 minutes before inserting popsicle sticks to help them stand upright.
Q8: Are Choco Banana Popsicles healthy?
A: Compared to many store-bought popsicles, Choco Banana Popsicles are a healthier option. They are made with natural ingredients, are lower in added sugar, and contain fiber and nutrients from bananas and yogurt. However, they are still a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. You can further enhance their healthiness by using dark chocolate and limiting added sweeteners.
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Choco Banana Popsicles
Ingredients
- Ripe Bananas (4 large): The star of the show! Ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and a creamy texture, making these popsicles naturally delicious and healthy. Look for bananas with brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Greek Yogurt (1/2 cup): Adds creaminess and a slight tang, while also boosting the protein content. You can use full-fat, low-fat, or non-fat depending on your preference. For a dairy-free option, use coconut yogurt or another plant-based yogurt.
- Cocoa Powder (1/4 cup): Unsweetened cocoa powder provides that rich chocolate flavor we all crave. Dutch-processed cocoa powder will give a smoother, less bitter chocolate taste, but regular unsweetened cocoa powder works just as well.
- Maple Syrup (2-3 tablespoons): A natural sweetener that complements the banana and chocolate flavors beautifully. Adjust the amount to your desired sweetness. You can also use honey or agave nectar if preferred. For a sugar-free option, use a sugar-free maple syrup alternative or stevia to taste.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a touch of warmth and depth. Pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best taste.
- Chocolate Chips or Chocolate Bar (1/2 cup): For that irresistible chocolate coating and crunch! Use your favorite type of chocolate – dark, milk, or semi-sweet. For a richer chocolate experience, use dark chocolate. You can use chocolate chips for convenience or chop up a chocolate bar for a more gourmet touch.
- Coconut Oil (1 tablespoon): Helps to melt the chocolate smoothly and creates a nice, glossy finish when the chocolate hardens. It also adds a subtle coconut flavor that complements the banana and chocolate. You can substitute with vegetable oil or butter if you prefer.
- Optional Toppings (Nuts, Sprinkles, Shredded Coconut): For extra flair and flavor! Get creative and add your favorite toppings after dipping the popsicles in chocolate. Chopped nuts, colorful sprinkles, and shredded coconut are all fantastic options.
Instructions
- Prepare the Bananas: Peel the bananas and slice them into 1-inch thick pieces. This will make them easier to blend and fit into popsicle molds.
- Freeze the Bananas: Place the banana slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for at least 2-3 hours, or until completely frozen solid. Freezing the bananas beforehand is crucial for achieving a creamy, popsicle-like texture and prevents the mixture from becoming icy.
- Blend the Popsicle Base: Once the bananas are frozen, transfer them to a high-speed blender or food processor. Add the Greek yogurt, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Blend Until Smooth: Blend all the ingredients until you achieve a completely smooth and creamy mixture. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the blender a few times to ensure everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be thick and resemble a soft-serve ice cream consistency.
- Fill the Popsicle Molds: Pour or spoon the banana mixture into popsicle molds, leaving a little space at the top for expansion during freezing. If you don’t have popsicle molds, you can use paper cups or small plastic containers.
- Insert Popsicle Sticks: Insert popsicle sticks into the center of each mold. If using paper cups, let the popsicles freeze for about 30 minutes before inserting the sticks to help them stand upright.
- Freeze Until Solid: Freeze the popsicles for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight, until they are completely frozen solid and firm to the touch. This ensures they are easy to unmold and hold their shape.
- Prepare the Chocolate Coating: While the popsicles are freezing, prepare the chocolate coating. In a microwave-safe bowl or a double boiler, combine the chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate bar) and coconut oil.
- Melt the Chocolate: Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. If using a double boiler, heat over simmering water, stirring constantly until melted. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can burn.
- Unmold the Popsicles: Once the popsicles are frozen solid, unmold them from the molds. To make unmolding easier, you can briefly dip the bottom of the molds in warm water for a few seconds. Gently wiggle and pull the popsicles out.
- Dip in Chocolate: Working quickly, dip each popsicle into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off.
- Add Toppings (Optional): If desired, immediately sprinkle the chocolate-coated popsicles with your favorite toppings like chopped nuts, sprinkles, or shredded coconut before the chocolate sets.
- Harden the Chocolate: Place the chocolate-dipped popsicles on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate. Return them to the freezer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the chocolate coating to harden completely.
- Enjoy!: Once the chocolate is hardened, your delicious Choco Banana Popsicles are ready to be enjoyed! Store any leftover popsicles in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 5 grams