Boonanas

Halloween is just around the corner, and while I love the spooky decorations and costumes, my favorite part is definitely the treats! But sometimes, those sugary snacks can leave us feeling sluggish. That’s why I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Boonanas – frozen banana ghosts that are as healthy as they are delicious.

These Boonanas are the perfect solution for a guilt-free Halloween treat. They’re simple to make, fun to decorate, and packed with potassium and other good stuff. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to get kids involved in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love It

These Boonanas aren’t just cute; they’re packed with goodness! Here’s why they’re a winning treat:

• Healthy & Delicious: Made with real fruit and yogurt, these are a much healthier alternative to many Halloween candies.
• Easy to Make: The recipe is incredibly simple, making it a perfect activity to do with kids.
• Fun & Festive: The ghost design is perfect for Halloween, but these can be enjoyed any time of year.
• Customizable: The variations are endless! Change up the yogurt flavor, add toppings, or get creative with decorations.

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What You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple ingredients. This recipe is so straightforward; you might already have everything on hand!:

• Ripe Bananas: Two large bananas will yield eight Boonanas. Pick bananas that are ripe but still firm, as this will make them easier to handle.
• Vanilla Yogurt: A half-cup of creamy vanilla yogurt is the perfect coating for our banana ghosts. It adds a touch of sweetness and tang.
• Mini Chocolate Chips: These tiny chocolate morsels are key for creating the ghost’s expressive faces. You’ll need 24 mini chocolate chips in total.
• Popsicle Sticks: Eight popsicle sticks serve as the ghost’s handles. Choose sturdy sticks that will hold up well in the freezer.

From Start to Finish

Step 1: Prep the Bananas

First, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the Boonanas from sticking. Then, peel and cut each banana in half lengthwise. Slice each half crosswise to create eight banana pieces.

Step 2: Insert Popsicle Sticks

Carefully insert a popsicle stick into the cut end of each banana piece. Make sure they’re inserted firmly enough to hold the banana securely.

Step 3: Initial Freeze

Place the banana pops on the prepared baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes, or until solid. This initial freeze will make dipping much easier.

Step 4: Yogurt Dip

Pour the vanilla yogurt into a tall glass. Dip each frozen banana into the yogurt, ensuring it’s fully coated. Return the dipped bananas to the baking sheet.

Step 5: Chocolate Chip Faces

While the yogurt is still wet, place three mini chocolate chips on each banana to create the ghost’s eyes and mouth. Get creative with different expressions!

Step 6: Final Freeze

Return the Boonanas to the freezer for another 20 minutes to allow the yogurt to set completely. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to two months.

Smart Tips & Tricks

Here are a few tips to help you make the best Boonanas:

• Freeze First: Ensure your bananas are fully frozen before dipping them in yogurt. This will create a firm base and help the yogurt adhere better. Find our other delicious dessert recipes here.
• Yogurt Consistency: If your yogurt is too thick, thin it out with a tablespoon or two of milk. If it’s too thin, let it drain in a cheesecloth-lined sieve for about 30 minutes before using.
• Chocolate Chip Placement: For the cutest ghost faces, place the mini chocolate chips while the yogurt is still wet. This way, they’ll stick securely.

Flavor Twists

While vanilla yogurt is a classic choice, feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Chocolate Boonanas: Use chocolate yogurt and white chocolate chips for a spooky, chocolaty twist. Try our decadent chocolate cake for more chocolate delights!
• Fruity Boonanas: Use strawberry or blueberry yogurt and add a few sprinkles for a colorful and fun variation.
• Nutty Boonanas: After dipping the bananas in yogurt, roll them in chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch and flavor.

How to Serve

These Boonanas are delightful on their own, but here are a few ideas for making them extra special:

• Festive Platter: Arrange the Boonanas on a Halloween-themed platter for a fun and spooky presentation. Add some dry ice for a dramatic effect!
• Alongside Treats: Serve these alongside other Halloween favorites like pumpkin spice cookies for a balanced and delightful treat selection.
• In a Cone: For a fun twist, serve the yogurt-dipped bananas in ice cream cones. Add a sprinkle of Halloween-colored sprinkles for extra flair.

That’s a Wrap

These Boonanas are more than just a Halloween treat; they’re a fun, simple project that can be appreciated year-round. The delicious combination of frozen banana and creamy vanilla yogurt, accented by those cute chocolate chip faces, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a healthy after-school snack or a delightful dessert to share, these frozen banana ghosts are a perfect choice. For another fun treat check out this recipe for chocolate chip cookies. Don’t forget to share your Boonana creations with me on social media! Find me on Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook.