This Greek Yogurt Protein Bark is a fun and healthy snack! With creamy Greek yogurt, crunchy nuts, and sweet toppings, it’s perfect for a quick treat or post-workout boost.
Making it is super easy; just spread yogurt on a baking sheet, sprinkle your favorites, and freeze! It’s so tasty that I sometimes forget it’s good for me! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Greek Yogurt: Use plain Greek yogurt for a creamy texture and protein boost. You can go with full-fat for richness or low-fat for a lighter option. If you’re lactose intolerant, try dairy-free yogurt alternatives like coconut yogurt.
Sweeteners: I add honey or maple syrup for a little sweetness. If you prefer a sugar-free option, you could use stevia or agave syrup. Adjust to your taste—some days I skip sweeteners entirely!
Nuts: Mixed nuts bring a nice crunch. Almonds, cashews, or walnuts work great. If you’re allergic to nuts, seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds are perfect and just as crunchy.
Dried Fruits: Dried cranberries or cherries are my go-to for sweetness and flavor. You can swap these out for other dried fruits like mango or apricots, just check for added sugars.
How Do I Get the Yogurt to Freeze Evenly?
Spreading the yogurt mixture evenly is key for uniform freezing. Here’s how you can ensure even thickness:
- Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the yogurt mixture on the parchment paper.
- Start from the center and work your way out to the edges, making sure it’s about 1/4 inch thick throughout.
- Make sure you freeze it flat; if it tilts, some parts may freeze faster than others.
Once it’s frozen, break it into pieces and enjoy! Storing it in an airtight container keeps it fresh, but it rarely lasts long at my house! 😄
Greek Yogurt Protein Bark
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mixed nuts, chopped (e.g., almonds, cashews)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or cherries
- 1/4 cup raisins or other dried berries
- Fresh blueberries and strawberries (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires a freezing time of at least 4 hours. So in total, you’re looking at around 4 hours and 15 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for meal prep or a healthy snack ready when you are!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Yogurt Base:
In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, honey or maple syrup if you’re using it, and vanilla extract. Stir well until everything is smooth and mixed evenly. This will be the creamy base for your protein bark!
2. Prepare Your Tray:
Line a baking sheet or flat tray with parchment paper. This makes it easy to remove the bark later. Make sure the paper fits well, without any overlapping edges, so the yogurt layer stays neat.
3. Spread the Yogurt Mixture:
Pour the yogurt mixture onto the parchment paper. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly into a thin layer, about 1/4 inch thick. Aim for an even spread so it freezes uniformly.
4. Add Your Toppings:
Sprinkle the chopped mixed nuts, dried cranberries, raisins, and any other dried fruit evenly over the yogurt layer. Get creative with your toppings! Lightly press them into the yogurt to make sure they stick well.
5. Freeze It!
Place the baking sheet in the freezer and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until the bark is completely firm. This will ensure a perfect crunch when you’re ready to enjoy it!
6. Break Into Pieces:
Once frozen solid, remove the baking sheet from the freezer. Gently peel the bark off the parchment paper. Break it into pieces of your desired size—these can be big or small, whatever works for you!
7. Serve and Store:
Serve immediately as a refreshing, cold, protein-packed snack. For a fun presentation, you can garnish with fresh blueberries and strawberries. If you have any leftovers, store the bark in an airtight container in the freezer for later. Enjoy!
Indulge in this refreshing and nutritious Greek Yogurt Protein Bark!
Can I Use Different Types of Yogurt?
Absolutely! You can use any type of Greek yogurt you prefer, whether it’s full-fat or low-fat. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut yogurt or almond yogurt for a similar texture.
What Toppings Can I Use Besides Nuts and Dried Fruit?
Get creative! You can add seeds (like chia or flaxseeds), shredded coconut, or even chocolate chips for a sweeter treat. Fresh fruit can also be added just before serving for an extra burst of flavor!
How Long Does This Bark Last in the Freezer?
The protein bark can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. It’s best enjoyed within that timeframe for optimal freshness and flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Just substitute the honey or maple syrup with a plant-based sweetener like agave syrup or omit it altogether if you prefer a tart flavor. You can also use a dairy-free yogurt alternative to keep it fully vegan.