Save Boo-nana Yogurt Ghost Pops are my go-to Halloween treat that feels festive without a sugar overload. These chilly banana ghosts are so easy, kids can help decorate, making it a fun family kitchen project. Each pop delivers creamy indulgence and playful spooky faces, perfect for parties or afternoon snacks.
These pops became a neighborhood favorite after we brought them to a Halloween playdate. Now every October the kids ask if we can make our ghost army again and there are never leftovers.
Ingredients
- Ripe bananas: Lend natural sweetness and firmness when frozen so choose ones with lots of yellow and a few spots for full flavor
- Plain Greek yogurt or unsweetened coconut yogurt: To suit vegan diets and provide tangy smooth coating
- Mini chocolate chips: Perfect for the ghost eyes and add a fun texture contrast go for allergen safe if needed
- Regular chocolate chips: Make cute ghost mouths look for quality chocolate with no waxy finish
- Honey or maple syrup: Bring extra sweetness to the yogurt especially good if your bananas are more tart I prefer local honey when available for depth
Instructions
- Prepare the Tray:
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup
- Make Popsicle Bananas:
- Insert a popsicle stick or lollipop stick about halfway into each banana half Usually twisting the stick gently helps avoid splits
- Sweeten the Yogurt:
- In a medium mixing bowl stir together plain Greek yogurt with honey or maple syrup until smooth Taste and adjust sweetness if desired
- Coat the Bananas:
- Hold a banana by the stick and dip into the prepared yogurt turning to coat evenly Spoon over any gaps for full coverage
- Arrange Ghosts for Decorating:
- Place each coated banana onto the parchment lined tray leaving some space between for easy decorating
- Create Ghost Faces:
- Gently press two mini chocolate chips for eyes near the top and one regular chocolate chip below for the mouth push in lightly so they stick but stay on the surface
- Freeze the Ghosts:
- Slide the tray into the freezer leave undisturbed for at least three hours or until the yogurt is firm all the way through
- Serve Your Pops:
- Serve straight from the freezer for best texture Let the pop sit for a minute if they seem too icy to bite
Save I always look forward to using local honey in this recipe It reminds me of childhood autumns spent helping grandparents harvest honey and the flavor brings back those golden afternoons
Storage Tips
Store leftover pops in an airtight container or zip top bag in the freezer for up to two weeks To prevent sticking separate layers with parchment paper The chocolate chips will stay firm so faces remain spooky
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap out dairy Greek yogurt with coconut or oat based yogurt for a vegan treat Use allergen friendly mini chocolate chips in place of conventional For variety dip finished ghosts in shredded coconut or crushed freeze dried berries
Serving Suggestions
Set out the pops on a platter piled with Halloween decor or orange napkins for a party I love offering small bowls of sprinkles or colored sugar for extra decorating Let kids add their own twists with different chip shapes
Cultural Halloween Fun
Banana pops have become a modern alternative to classic caramel apples and other confections They first trended with health savvy families looking for festive options Halloween treats can be creative and wholesome without being overly processed
Seasonal Adaptations
Add a pumpkin spice pinch to your yogurt for autumn flavor Try with ripe pears or apples if bananas are out of season Drizzle with a ribbon of dark chocolate for grown up appeal
Save For festive fun that's healthy too, these Boo-nana Yogurt Ghost Pops deliver with every bite. Make a batch for your next party or chilly afternoon snack.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use dairy-free yogurt for these pops?
Yes, you can substitute any plant-based yogurt to make these pops vegan-friendly and dairy-free.
- → How do I make the ghost faces stick?
Press mini chocolate chips firmly into the soft yogurt coating before freezing so they adhere well as they set.
- → How long should I freeze the pops?
Freeze the pops for at least 3 hours or until the yogurt coating is fully firm to ensure proper texture and easy handling.
- → Can I add extra decorations?
Absolutely! You can roll yogurt-coated bananas in shredded coconut, sprinkles, or crushed nuts for added texture and flavor.
- → What tool alternatives can I use for sticks?
If you don’t have popsicle sticks, sturdy paper straws or wooden skewers work well for holding the pops.
- → Are these pops suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, all listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free but double-check product labels to confirm.