Welcome to a delightful twist on a classic dessert that’s not only satisfyingly sweet but also packed with protein. Whether you’re in need of a post-workout snack or simply craving a guilt-free treat, these Banana Split High Protein Bars are sure to hit the spot. For an added burst of flavor, try our coconut raspberry crunch bars. With a delightful combination of coconut and tangy raspberry, these bars are the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth while also keeping you feeling full and energized. Indulge in these high protein treats without any of the guilt, and enjoy the delicious taste of a classic dessert with a healthy twist.
Let’s dive into the making of these scrumptious bars. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped strawberries
- 1/2 cup chopped bananas
- 1/2 cup chopped pineapples
- 1/2 cup chopped cherries
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (optional)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 1/4 cup crushed peanuts
Process
Combine the Fruits and Yogurt: In a large bowl, mix the chopped strawberries, bananas, pineapples, cherries, Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Form the Bars: Spoon a couple of tablespoons of the yogurt mixture onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet to form clusters. Insert a popsicle stick into each cluster for easy handling. Alternatively, pour the mixture into a bar candy mold if you prefer a more uniform shape.
Freeze: Place the baking sheet or mold in the freezer and freeze for about 2 hours, or until completely solid.
Melt the Chocolate: When the clusters are set, melt the chocolate chips with coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl, using 15 or 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
Dip and Decorate: Remove the bars from the freezer and dip one side into the melted chocolate. Return them to the baking sheet, drizzle with additional chocolate, and sprinkle with crushed peanuts.
Set the Chocolate: Put the bars back in the freezer for a few minutes to let the chocolate set before serving.
How do you ensure the bars have the perfect texture?
I’ve discovered that the key is in the freezing time. Freeze the bars until they’re just solid enough to hold their shape, but not so long that they become too hard to enjoy.
Can you substitute the Greek yogurt for a dairy-free option?
Absolutely! I’ve tried using coconut yogurt, and it works wonderfully. Just make sure it’s thick enough to mimic the consistency of Greek yogurt.
What’s the best way to store these bars?
In my experience, keeping them in an airtight container in the freezer is best. They’ll last up to a month, but good luck resisting them for that long!
Banana Split High Protein Bars
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Parchment paper or baking sheet
- Candy bar mold optional
- Microwave-safe bowl
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped strawberries
- ½ cup chopped bananas
- ½ cup chopped pineapples
- ½ cup chopped cherries
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder optional
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp coconut
- ¼ cup crushed peanuts
Instructions
- Add the chopped fruit, plain Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract to a large bowl. Combine thoroughly.
- Add a couple tablespoons of the yogurt mixture to a parchment paper lined baking sheet form the clusters then add a popsicle stick. You can also add this mixture to a bar candy bar mold if desired.
- Place the baking sheet or mold in the freezer. Freeze until they are completely frozen, about 2 hours.
- When clusters are done in the freezer, melt the chocolate. Add the chocolate chips and coconut oil to a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 15 or 30-second intervals, stirring in between each one, until the chocolate has melted.
- Remove the frozen yogurt bars from the freezer and dip one side into the melted chocolate. Place bake on the baking sheet. Drizzle with more chocolate and add crushed peanuts.
- Place the clusters back in the freezer for a few minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
Recipe-Related FAQs
Can I add other types of nuts or seeds?
Of course! Feel free to customize with your favorite nuts or seeds. I sometimes add sunflower seeds for an extra crunch.
How can I make these bars vegan?
To make these bars vegan, use a plant-based protein powder and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free. Agave syrup can be a great substitute for honey as well.
What if I don’t have a candy bar mold?
No worries! You can simply shape the mixture into bars with your hands or use any container as a makeshift mold. Just be sure to line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
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