Two-Ingredient Banana Peanut Butter

This two-ingredient banana peanut butter ice cream is my secret for cravings that pop up out of nowhere Anytime I want a creamy frozen treat that feels totally indulgent but uses only good-for-you basics this is what I make It is the ultimate way to save those extra ripe bananas and turn them into a dessert nobody can resist

I first made this recipe when my kids came home asking for ice cream on a busy weeknight Now we all keep extra bananas in the freezer just for this quick fix

Ingredients

• Very ripe bananas: provide the natural sweetness and creamy texture The more brown spots the better for flavor and easy blending Pick bananas that look slightly mushy and have deep brown specks on the peel
• Peanut butter: brings richness and a hint of saltiness Choose a creamy peanut butter with just peanuts and salt listed on the label for the purest taste and smoothest blend Natural peanut butters work best for a pure nutty flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Freeze Banana Slices:

Start by peeling your ripe bananas Slice them into coins about half an inch thick Lay them flat in a single layer on a large plate or baking sheet making sure they do not touch each other Freeze for one to two hours This prevents sticking and helps the bananas blend into an ultra creamy texture

Blend the Bananas:

Transfer the frozen banana slices to a powerful food processor or blender Pulse and blend scraping down the bowl as often as needed Keep going until the mixture is completely smooth and looks like soft serve ice cream This step can take a couple of minutes so be patient

Add Peanut Butter:

Spoon in the peanut butter Blending one final time ensures the peanut butter is well combined Taste to check for balance You want to see a barely streaky mix that smells deeply nutty You can add a tablespoon of milk if the mixture seems too thick but let the bananas and peanut butter do most of the work

Serve or Freeze:

Serve immediately if you like a soft and melty ice cream texture For firmer scoops transfer the mixture to a container and freeze for another few hours until solid Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping

Save

Bananas are a hero in many of my favorite recipes They transform into something magic when frozen and blended My son once giggled after his first bite asking if I had hidden real ice cream in the bowl This is what I serve when family visits and I want to give them something nostalgic and good for them

Storage Tips

Scoop extra ice cream into an airtight container and store in the freezer for up to a week For best texture let it soften on the counter for five to ten minutes before serving again Do not refreeze after repeated thawing or the texture will be icy

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for something lighter or if you have peanut allergies For a nut free version try sunflower seed butter You can also add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a bit of cocoa powder to switch up the flavors

Save

Serving Suggestions

Serve in bowls with a sprinkle of chopped chocolate nuts or a drizzle of extra nut butter For a more decadent sundae top with sliced strawberries or a spoonful of homemade jam

Cultural Context

NICE cream is a trend that started with health food lovers craving ice cream without dairy or added sugar Tapping into the power of bananas this treat shows up in home kitchens and wellness cafes everywhere There is something so satisfying about making dessert from just fruits and pantry basics

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen bananas straight from the freezer?

Yes, frozen banana slices work perfectly. Allow them to thaw slightly for easier blending if very hard.

→ Is a food processor required?

A strong food processor or blender is recommended to achieve a creamy, smooth consistency without lumps.

→ Can I substitute almond or another nut butter?

Absolutely! Almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter are delicious alternatives to peanut butter in this treat.

→ How can I make it firmer?

For a scoopable texture, freeze the mixture a few hours after blending, then enjoy as a firm frozen dessert.

→ Is there a way to make it dairy-free?

The treat is naturally dairy-free unless you add milk for blending; use non-dairy milk if desired.

→ Can I add chocolate or other ingredients?

Yes, try mixing in cocoa powder, mini chocolate chips, or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.