My friend Melissa (you know her by now as Smells Like Brownies) threw a Curious George themed birthday party for her 1 year old.  She wanted to have some kind of banana snack at the party (cuz duh – monkeys) but really hates bananas, even the smell of them.  So I volunteered to make something for her.  These banana pops could not be easier, and they ended up being a huge success!

Start by cutting bananas (however many you want to use) in half and carefully insert popsicle sticks.  Pop them into the freezer for 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, make your chocolate dip.  Place chocolate chips into a microwaveable bowl – you can use either milk or dark, I prefer dark.  8 oz of chocolate will cover 2 bananas (4 halves).  Next, mix in some oil or butter – this makes sure the chocolate melts evenly and that it is shiny.  I used coconut oil for the health factor and because it tastes great with chocolate.  The ratio is 1 tbsp oil to 8 oz chocolate.  Stir to coat the chips evenly with oil, then microwave 30 seconds at a time, stirring in between, until the chocolate is just melted.  Do not overcook it – once you burn chocolate, you can’t take it back.

While the chocolate is still warm, take the partially frozen bananas and dip them into the chocolate to coat.  You may need to use a rubber spatula to ensure that the entire banana is coated.  Allow any excess to drip off.  Working quickly (the chocolate will harden quickly on the frozen banana), sprinkle with or roll in whatever toppings you want to use.  I used sprinkles, walnuts, and toasted coconut.  Return the bananas to the fridge for at least 30 minutes.  Allow to soften for about 5 minutes at room temp, or longer in the fridge, before you serve them so that they won’t be rock hard.  The banana inside should be the consistency of ice cream.

I used a 32 oz bag of chocolate chips to make 16 banana pops (from 8 bananas).  These are super fun to make – I bet kids would love to get involved.  And there is not a lot of sugar, depending on what kind kind of chocolate and toppings you use, making it a healthy snack/dessert.  So go bananas! (more…)