Let’s talk first jobs and ice cream.

One of my first working gigs was at a soda shop attached to a movie theatre – Midwest theaters did it right. I was about 16 and I snagged the job “soda jerk,” which meant I scooped all the ice cream sundaes, shakes, apple pie a la modes, and made fresh cherry limeades. Basically, I looked and smelled like a giant popsicle by the end of the night.

It was kind of the dream, except for two things: 1) Restocking involved lugging dozens of 10-pound ice cream containers around with my weak chicken arms. And 2) being around ice cream all day. Hello temptation.

My favorite flavor combination has always been some form of chocolate, banana, and peanut butter. I’m surprised I never put bananas and peanut butter cups between bread and called it lunch (but now that I think of it, that’s a good idea).

We were allowed a minimal amount of treats while at work and only received a small discount on food, but that never stopped me from ordering giant salads during my lunch break and then whipping up a hot fudge peanut butter banana shake for my car ride home. Life was good.

Not much has changed these days. I still love all things peanut butter, banana and chocolate. However, with dairy out the door, I reach for cashew- and coconut-based frozen treats. Another favorite – and perhaps the most simple creation – involves frozen bananas.

This recipe is has three very good things going for it:

1) It requires just 5 ingredients and 5 minutes to make.

2) It’s naturally sweetened and relatively healthy.

3) It tastes seriously close to a real milkshake!

Frozen bananas provide a sweet, ice cream-like base

Dates a touch of sweetness

Almond milk extra creaminess

Peanut butter a salty kick + protein + healthy fats

& cacao powder antioxidants and subtle chocolate flavor

This has been my go-to mid-afternoon snack when I can’t quite make it till dinner or a healthy dessert when I want something sweet. But really, it’s so healthy and satisfying that it could even be a suitable breakfast.

If you try this recipe, let us know! Leave a comment and rate it, and be sure to take a picture and tag it #minimalistbaker on Instagram! We LOVE seeing our recipes come to life in your kitchens. Cheers, friends!