Crunchy Banana Pops

They might not have the most exciting name and they certainly aren’t going to be found on the dessert menus at any gourmet restaurants, but Crunchy Banana Pops are a fantastic summertime treat. These pops are made with frozen bananas that are coated in honey and rolled in puffed rice (a.k.a. Rice Krispies). The original recipe came from one of the first cookbooks I ever had and was in instant hit because it was something that I could make all by myself. In fact, this is a perfect recipe for kids or those who are looking for an extremely simple, but cool, snack.

Frozen bananas may not sound like much of a treat when you think about rich ice creams and decadent gelatos, but as they defrost them become just about as creamy as either – and significantly healthier for you. The honey is poured onto the frozen bananas and solidifies quickly, leaving a sweet and sticky, but not runny, outer coat. The puffed rice adds enough crunch to contrast perfectly with the creamy banana, making the treat perfectly balanced – although a drizzle of melted chocolate isn’t necessarily a bad idea either.

Start with ripe, but not overripe, bananas and plan at least an hour in advance so they have time to freeze. Once assembled, the banana pops can be eaten right away or put back into the freezer for storage for several days.

Crunchy Banana Pops
2 large bananas
honey
puffed rice/rice krispies
popsicle sticks

Peel bananas and cut them in half. Insert popsicle sticks into cut ends of the bananas. Place on wax paper and freeze until firm, at least 1 hour.
Coat frozen bananas with honey and roll in puffed rice. Eat immediately, or freeze until ready to serve. Finish with chocolate drizzle, if desired.