This Greek Yogurt Protein Bark is a tasty treat that’s super easy to make! It’s creamy yogurt mixed with your favorite toppings—think fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips!
You can slice it up and enjoy the crunch and creaminess together. Perfect for a snack or after a workout! I love popping a piece in my mouth when I’m craving something sweet. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Greek Yogurt: Plain Greek yogurt gives this bark its creamy texture and protein punch. You can use either full fat for richness or low fat if you’re watching calories. Non-dairy options like coconut or almond yogurt can work too for a dairy-free version.
Honey or Maple Syrup: These sweeteners add a lovely touch. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, you might use a sugar-free syrup or leave it out completely if you prefer less sweetness.
Mixed Nuts: Almonds and walnuts are great choices, but feel free to swap in your favorites like pecans or pistachios. Seeds like pumpkin or sunflower work well too if you want to keep it nut-free.
Dried Fruits: Cranberries give a tart flavor, but raisins, chopped dates, or even dried apricots can be a good fit too. Just keep an eye on sugar content if you’re trying to keep it low!
How Do I Ensure My Yogurt Bark Freezes Properly?
Freezing can be tricky, but here’s how to make sure your Greek Yogurt Bark turns out great. Start with a lined baking sheet to make removal easy later. Aim for an even spread of yogurt; about 1/4 inch thick works best. By letting it freeze for 4-6 hours, you’ll achieve the firmness needed for perfect bark.
- Keep an eye on the edges; sometimes they freeze faster than the center.
- Once firm, use the parchment paper to lift it off and break it into pieces—it’s easier than cutting!
- Store the bark in an airtight container in the freezer. It can last up to two weeks, but I bet it won’t last that long!
Greek Yogurt Protein Bark
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt (full fat or low fat)
- 2-3 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mixed nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts), roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 2 tbsp rolled oats
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries) for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires 4-6 hours to freeze completely. So, you can whip it up in no time and then chill out while it sets! Perfect for a make-ahead snack for the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Sheet:
Start by lining a baking sheet or shallow pan with parchment paper. This will make it super easy to remove the bark once it’s frozen. You can use a small or large pan depending on how thick you want your bark!
2. Mix the Yogurt:
In a mixing bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Use a whisk or a spatula to stir everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Tasting it is totally allowed—adjust sweetness if needed!
3. Spread the Yogurt Mixture:
Carefully spread the yogurt mixture evenly onto the lined baking sheet. Aim for about 1/4 inch in thickness to ensure it freezes well without taking forever. Use a spatula for a nice, even layer.
4. Add Your Toppings:
Now for the fun part! Sprinkle the chopped mixed nuts, dried cranberries or raisins, and rolled oats over the yogurt layer. Make sure to distribute them evenly so every piece has a good amount of toppings.
5. Press and Freeze:
Gently press down on the toppings to make sure they stick into the yogurt. Then, place the baking sheet in the freezer and let it freeze for at least 4 to 6 hours, or until the yogurt is fully firm. It’s worth the wait!
6. Break Into Pieces:
Once the bark is frozen solid, take it out of the freezer. Remove it from the parchment paper and break it into pieces using your hands. You can make them as big or small as you like!
7. Store or Serve:
Enjoy your Greek Yogurt Protein Bark right away or store the pieces in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1-2 weeks! These make great snacks or a refreshing treat after a workout. If using fresh berries, add those just before serving.
Enjoy this creamy, crunchy, and protein-packed frozen treat that’s perfect for snacking or post-workout fuel!
Can I Use Different Yogurt in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While plain Greek yogurt is recommended for its thickness and protein content, you can use other types like regular yogurt, non-dairy yogurt, or even flavored yogurt. Just keep in mind that flavored options may add extra sweetness or flavor to your bark.
Can I Customize the Toppings?
Yes! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Fresh fruits like banana slices or peaches, different nuts, or seeds can all work well. Just make sure to keep the texture in mind; some ingredients might need to be chopped or prepped a bit.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Bark?
Store any leftover Greek Yogurt Protein Bark in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1-2 weeks. If you prefer individual pieces, you can layer them with parchment paper between each piece to prevent sticking.
How Do I Make This Recipe Lower in Sugar?
You can reduce or omit the honey or maple syrup, especially if you use sweetened Greek yogurt. If desired, you can also try a natural sweetener like stevia or erythritol for sweetness without the added sugar.