Peanutty Banana Squares
Creamy peanutty banana squares combine rich ice creams, peanut butter, and fudge for a decadent frozen treat, perfect for peanut butter lovers and those craving a sweet, indulgent dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fold sugar and banana liqueur into whipped cream.
- Refrigerate the whipped cream mixture.
- Blend peanut butter and hot fudge sauce.
- Working quickly, spread fresh banana ice cream evenly in an 8-inch square pan.
- With a knife, mark off 3 rows across and 3 down to create squares.
- Use the back of a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each square.
- Spoon 1 tablespoon of peanut butter fudge mixture into each indentation.
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup crushed peanut butter around the indents.
- Spread chocolate chip ice cream over the entire surface.
- Gently press down to level the top.
- Swirl the whipped cream mixture over the top.
- Sprinkle with remaining crushed peanut butter.
- Freeze until firm, about 3 hours.
- Cut into 9 squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, consider using a lower-fat whipped topping instead of heavy cream. You can substitute the banana liqueur with an extra tablespoon of sugar or a splash of vanilla extract if you prefer to skip the alcohol. Make sure the ice cream is slightly softened for easier spreading, and feel free to add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture.
Serving Suggestions
These Peanutty Banana Squares are perfect as a dessert for summer gatherings or casual get-togethers. Serve them alongside a scoop of your favorite vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of extra hot fudge sauce for added indulgence. They pair beautifully with Corn Stuffed Tomato Cups for a delightful contrast in flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks. To enjoy, let the squares sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cutting, which will make them easier to serve. Avoid refreezing once thawed to maintain the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanutty Banana Squares contains roughly 123 calories, with 4g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 10g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use smooth peanut butter instead of chunky?
Yes, you can use smooth peanut butter if you prefer a creamier texture. However, chunky peanut butter adds a nice crunch that complements the other ingredients. Adjust the amount of crushed peanuts accordingly if you want to maintain that texture.
Is there a non-dairy alternative for the ice cream?
Absolutely! There are several delicious non-dairy ice creams available made from almond, coconut, or oat milk. These can be substituted without compromising the flavor of the Peanutty Banana Squares, making them suitable for those following a dairy-free diet.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare these squares a day in advance. Simply complete all the steps up to freezing, then cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and they will be ready to serve when your guests arrive.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).