Homemade Chocolate Banana Popsicles

Photo byBonnie HawkinsonUnsplash

Here's a fun and easy recipe for homemade chocolate banana popsicles that you can enjoy making with your kids! These popsicles are not only delicious but also a great way to get creative in the kitchen together, with the banana slices adding a fun touch to the sides.

Homemade Chocolate Banana Popsicles

Ingredients:

• 3 large ripe bananas
• 1 cup of milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1/2 cup of plain or vanilla yogurt (optional for creaminess)
• 1/4 cup of cocoa powder
• 2-3 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt
• Popsicle molds
• Popsicle sticks

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bananas:
2. • Slice 2 bananas into thin, even rounds. These will be placed along the sides of the popsicle molds to create the visible banana slices.
3. Blend the Chocolate Mixture:
4. • In a blender, combine the remaining 1 banana, milk, yogurt (if using), cocoa powder, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
   • Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness if necessary by adding more honey or maple syrup.
5. Assemble the Popsicles:
6. • Take the banana slices and carefully place them along the inside walls of the popsicle molds. Make sure they stick to the sides.
   • Slowly pour the chocolate mixture into the molds, making sure not to dislodge the banana slices.
   • Tap the molds gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles and ensure the chocolate mixture fills all the gaps.
7. Insert the Sticks:
8. • Place the popsicle sticks into the molds. If your mold doesn’t have a built-in stick holder, you might need to let the popsicles freeze for about an hour before inserting the sticks so they stay upright.
9. Freeze:
10. • Place the popsicle molds in the freezer and freeze for at least 4-6 hours, or until completely solid.
11. Unmold and Enjoy:
12. • To easily remove the popsicles from the molds, run the outside of the mold under warm water for a few seconds. Gently pull the popsicles out.
    • Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing combination of creamy chocolate and fresh banana slices!