Craving a delightful and nutritious treat? These Strawberry Vanilla Yogurt Bars are your answer to a healthy snack or light dessert. You’ll love how easy they are to prepare, making them perfect for meal prep or a quick indulgence.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Greek Yogurt: Use full-fat for creamier bars, or dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.
- Strawberries: Fresh is best, but frozen (thawed and drained) work in a pinch.
- Vanilla Extract: You can experiment with almond extract for a different flavor profile.
- Sweetener: Maple syrup or honey are great choices. Adjust to your taste.
- Granola: Choose your favorite healthy granola for the crust.
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup healthy granola
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or unsalted butter (optional, for the crust)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 3 hours (includes freezing)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180 (depending on ingredients)
- Tools Needed: 8×8 inch baking dish, parchment paper, mixing bowls, spatula.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pan
Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This makes it easy to lift your healthy bars out later. Ensure the parchment paper fits snugly.
2. Make the Granola Crust
In a medium bowl, combine the granola. If using, add the melted coconut oil or butter and mix well. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish to form an even crust.
3. Blend the Yogurt Filling
In another bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, chopped strawberries, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined and the strawberries are slightly mashed. You can leave some strawberry chunks for texture.
4. Assemble the Bars
Pour the yogurt mixture evenly over the granola crust in the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it smoothly. Make sure the layer is consistent across the entire crust.
5. Freeze Until Firm
Place the baking dish in the freezer for at least 2-3 hours, or until the yogurt mixture is completely firm. This is crucial for the bars to set properly as healthy bars.
6. Cut and Serve
Once frozen, lift the parchment paper to remove the entire block from the dish. Place it on a cutting board and cut into 8-12 squares or rectangles. Enjoy your delicious healthy bars immediately.
Variation Ideas
- Berry Blast: Use a mix of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries instead of just strawberries.
- Tropical Twist: Add shredded coconut and diced mango to the yogurt mixture.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dark chocolate and drizzle over the frozen bars before serving.
- Nut Butter Swirl: Swirl a tablespoon of almond or peanut butter into the yogurt mixture for extra flavor.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Strawberry Vanilla Yogurt Bars in an airtight container in the freezer. They will stay fresh for up to 2-3 weeks. For best texture, let them sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before eating if they are too hard straight from the freezer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
A: Greek yogurt is recommended for its thickness, which helps the bars set. Regular yogurt might result in a softer, less firm bar.
Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! These healthy bars are perfect for meal prepping and can be stored in the freezer for weeks.
Q: What if I don’t have parchment paper?
A: You can lightly grease the baking dish, but parchment paper makes removal much easier and cleaner.
Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid to prevent the bars from becoming watery.
Q: Are these bars suitable for a low-sugar diet?
A: You can adjust the amount of maple syrup or honey, or use a sugar-free liquid sweetener, to fit your dietary needs.
Q: How long do these bars last in the fridge?
A: These healthy bars are best stored in the freezer. They will soften considerably if left in the fridge for too long.