Begin by peeling your ripe bananas and slicing them in half crosswise. Carefully insert a popsicle stick into each half, ensuring it goes deep enough to support the banana without it slipping out.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will be where you place the banana pops later, so make sure it’s ready to go.
In a microwave-safe bowl, gently heat the peanut butter for about 30 seconds or until it becomes slightly runny. Alternatively, warm it in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Once warm, use a spoon or spatula to evenly coat each banana half with a generous layer of peanut butter.
After coating, arrange the peanut butter-drenched bananas on the prepared baking sheet. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for approximately 30 minutes, allowing the bananas to firm up.
While the bananas are chilling, melt the dark chocolate chips combined with coconut oil. This can be done in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, or using a double boiler method until the mixture is entirely smooth and silky.
Once the bananas have set in the freezer, take them out and dip each banana half into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s coated up to the stick. Allow any excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl.
Immediately sprinkle a mixture of crushed nuts and shredded coconut (if using) over the chocolate-coated area while the chocolate is still warm. This allows the toppings to stick firmly to the chocolate layer.
Once topped, place the decorated banana pops back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet and return them to the freezer for an additional 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set completely.
After about 30 minutes, your delightful Decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Pops will be ready to enjoy!
Notes
Serve on a decorative plate with extra melted chocolate drizzled on top.