Are you looking for a frozen snack you can serve this spring and summer that isn’t solid sugar and won’t break the bank? Then try making one of these delicious frozen banana treats! Banana Pops, banana ice cream, or frozen banana bites are an easy-peasy summer snack.
Frozen Banana Pops
It all depends on what toppings you use, but banana pops can be healthier and lower in sugar than your standard popsicle! Start by inserting a popsicle stick into the end of a peeled banana. Next, coat the banana in yogurt or chocolate. Then, engage your little one in helping you dip and roll the bananas in your favorite toppings!
Shredded coconut, sprinkles, chopped nuts, and dried fruit are all great choices! Try out this really simple recipe pictured below from Eating Well. All you need are a few bananas, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and shredded coconut. Line a baking sheet with wax paper and freeze the pops for one to two hours.
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Making frozen bananas is a cooking activity that involves measuring and other math concepts. No matter how you prepare them, frozen bananas are a fun and delicious activity for kids and something you’ll probably enjoy, too!
Frozen Banana Ice Cream
Another way you can use bananas to make a frozen treat is by popping some frozen bananas in a blender to make “ice cream.” After I learned about this trick, it has become one of my go-to desserts year-round.
Place your frozen bananas in a blender, and add some spices. I like cinnamon, nutmeg, & pumpkin pie spice. Next, add a dash or two of salt and a dash of vanilla extract. You can also add a tablespoon or two of your choice of milk to make it a bit creamier.
Blend until the mixture is smooth and thick. Serve it in a cone or a dish! You can also top it with chocolate sauce, fresh fruit, caramel, whipped cream, sprinkles, etc. Personally, I like mine with PB 2 watered down like a sundae syrup! You’ll be astounded by how much it’s just like regular ice cream- but with a lot less sugar!
Frozen Snack: Banana Bites
Similar to banana pops, banana bites are frozen chunks of banana coated in chocolate or yogurt. These bite-size frozen treats are great for younger kids who might not want an entire banana or serve at a spring or summer party!
For a bite-size frozen snack, grab toothpicks instead of popsicle sticks. Otherwise, you can use the same ingredients to make these as you did the pops! Head to Pilsbury.com for step-by-step directions and tips on making the yummy bites pictured above!
Of course, you can always use bananas and many other fruits to make delicious and refreshing smoothies and shakes; the perfect on-the-go snack!
Want to hang out with some other characters who love bananas? Play our Gorilla Puzzle or Peek-A-Zoo!
Update April 15, 2024, by L. Elizabeth Forry
