Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream Recipe

If you’ve ever craved a creamy, dreamy treat that’s as wholesome as it is delicious, you’re about to fall in love! This Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream checks every box: sweet, nutty, satisfyingly rich, and—best of all—made with just a handful of ingredients. Whether you’re in need of a quick weeknight dessert or want to wow friends with a fun twist on classic flavors, this recipe will have you smiling with every spoonful.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s nothing complicated here—just a few wholesome basics, each one adding its own magic to this irresistible dessert. Simplicity is the secret (and the glory!) of Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream: the right bananas, a scoop of peanut butter, and a touch of sweetness if you like.

• Ripe Bananas: Go for bananas with lots of brown spots—these are extra sweet and blend silky smooth, giving the ice cream its signature creamy texture.
• Peanut Butter: Choose your favorite creamy peanut butter for the best flavor, or opt for natural peanut butter if you want a more peanut-forward, less sweet result.
• Maple Syrup (optional): A drizzle of maple syrup adds depth and a hint of extra sweetness, perfect if your bananas aren’t quite as ripe as you’d like.

Variations

If you love to play in the kitchen, Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream is endlessly adaptable! Switch things up based on what you have on hand, your personal cravings, or dietary needs—there’s no wrong way to enjoy this treat.

• Chunky Monkey Style: Stir in a handful of vegan chocolate chips and chopped walnuts for extra crunch and decadence.
• Chocolate Dream: Blend in a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder or a swirl of melted dark chocolate to turn it into a peanut butter banana chocolate ice cream.
• Nut-Free Version: Use sunflower seed butter or almond butter instead of peanut butter if you’re avoiding peanuts or just craving a different nutty note.
• Berry Burst: Toss in a few frozen strawberries or blueberries for a pop of fruity brightness that complements the creaminess beautifully.

How to Make Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream

Step 1: Slice and Freeze the Bananas

Start by peeling your ripe bananas and slicing them into even 1-inch pieces. Place the slices in a single layer inside a freezer-safe container or bag—this helps them freeze quickly and prevents big banana clumps! Pop them in the freezer for at least one hour, or let them chill overnight for maximum convenience.

Step 2: Thaw Slightly for Easier Blending

If your bananas have been frozen overnight, let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This little rest softens the edges just enough to save your blender a bit of effort and makes the blending process super smooth.

Step 3: Blend Until Creamy

Add the frozen banana chunks to a high-speed blender or food processor, followed by the peanut butter and maple syrup if using. Blend everything together, pausing to scrape down the sides or tamp down the mixture as needed, until it turns unbelievably smooth and creamy. Don’t be tempted to add liquid—patience is key here!

Step 4: Freeze for Scoopable Perfection

Spoon the blended ice cream back into your freezer-safe container. Let it set in the freezer for about 30–60 minutes, or until it’s scoopable and holds its shape. If you wait longer or freeze overnight, just let the container sit out 15–25 minutes before serving for easy scooping.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream

Garnishes

Dress up each bowl with a drizzle of vegan caramel sauce, a sprinkle of roasted peanuts, or a handful of mini chocolate chips. These toppings add pops of texture and flavor that complement the nutty banana base, turning every scoop into an extra-special treat.

Side Dishes

Pair your Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream with crisp almond cookies, a plate of fresh berries, or alongside a slice of warm banana bread for the ultimate dessert experience. Each bite is classic, cozy, and just a little bit fancy.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving scoops in little mason jars with layers of crushed cookies or granola, or swirl caramel between layers for a parfait effect. You can also fill ice cream cones and top with a cherry for an irresistibly playful (and portable) summer dessert!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream in an airtight, freezer-safe container. Press a piece of parchment directly onto the surface before sealing to help prevent those dreaded freezer crystals and keep your ice cream ultra-creamy.

Freezing

This ice cream keeps beautifully in the freezer for up to one week. Remember that it will firm up significantly after several hours, so be sure to let it sit on the counter for 15–25 minutes before scooping for the dreamiest texture.

Reheating

While ice cream isn’t typically “reheated,” letting it thaw gently at room temperature brings it back to its perfect creamy consistency. If you’re in a rush, place the container in a bowl of warm (not hot) water for a few minutes for quick softening.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This irresistible, naturally sweet Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream is the ultimate guilt-free dessert that you’ll want to keep on repeat all year long. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at just how easy it is to whip up a dessert that’s as nutritious as it is decadent! Don’t forget to make it your own with fun mix-ins or toppings, and share a bowl (or two) with someone you love.

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