Frozen Yogurt Bars: A Refreshing Low-Point Treat
Frozen yogurt bars are a delightful and healthy way to enjoy a sweet treat without the guilt. Packed with protein from Greek yogurt and bursting with fresh fruit, these bars are perfect for a hot day, as a post-workout snack, or as a light dessert. This recipe is tailored for those following the Weight Watchers program, ensuring you can enjoy them while staying on track. Let’s dive into the details of making these delicious and nutritious frozen yogurt bars.
Ingredients
To create these refreshing Frozen Yogurt Bars, you will need the following ingredients:
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups Greek yogurt (plain or flavored, depending on your preference; non-fat or low-fat recommended)
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
- ½ cup granola (look for low-sugar options for a healthier choice)
- 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- 8×8 inch baking dish or a similar-sized container
- Parchment paper (optional, for easy removal)
- Knife or pizza cutter (for slicing)
- Airtight container or Ziplock bags for storage
Nutritional Information (per serving)
This recipe yields approximately 12 bars. Below is the estimated nutritional breakdown per bar:
- Calories: 100
- Total Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 30mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 6g
- Weight Watchers SmartPoints: 3 points per bar
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
- Prepare Your Workspace: Start by gathering all your ingredients and kitchen tools. This will streamline the preparation process and ensure that everything is within reach.
Step 2: Prepare the Yogurt Mixture
- Combine Yogurt and Sweetener: In a large mixing bowl, add 2 cups of Greek yogurt. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, add 1-2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup. Stir until well combined. This step is optional; the natural sweetness of the fruit may be sufficient.
Step 3: Incorporate the Fruits
- Add Strawberries: Hull and chop 1 cup of strawberries into small pieces. Add the chopped strawberries to the yogurt mixture.
- Add Blueberries: Add 1 cup of blueberries to the same bowl. If using frozen blueberries, there is no need to thaw them; just add them directly to the mixture.
- Mix Gently: Using a spatula or spoon, gently fold the strawberries and blueberries into the yogurt mixture. Be careful not to crush the berries; you want them to retain their shape for a nice texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish
- Line Your Dish: Take an 8×8 inch baking dish or similar container and line it with parchment paper. This will help in easily removing the bars once they are frozen.
Step 5: Spread the Yogurt Mixture
- Transfer to Dish: Pour the yogurt and fruit mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring it reaches the corners and edges.
Step 6: Add Granola Topping
- Sprinkle Granola: Evenly sprinkle ½ cup of granola over the top of the yogurt mixture. This adds a delightful crunch to your frozen bars. Choose a low-sugar granola to keep the overall recipe healthier.
Step 7: Freeze the Bars
- Cover and Freeze: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the freezer. Allow the mixture to freeze for at least 4-6 hours, or until it is completely firm.
Step 8: Slice the Frozen Bars
- Remove from Freezer: Once frozen, remove the dish from the freezer. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes to soften slightly, which will make slicing easier.
- Slice into Bars: Using a knife or pizza cutter, carefully cut the frozen yogurt mixture into rectangular or square bars. The size of the bars can vary based on your preference.
Step 9: Store the Bars
- Transfer to Storage: Place the cut bars into an airtight container or a Ziplock bag, separating layers with parchment paper if desired. This helps prevent them from sticking together.
Step 10: Enjoy and Serve
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy a bar right away for a refreshing treat. These bars are perfect for sharing with family and friends or as a healthy dessert option.
- Store Leftovers: Return any leftover bars to the freezer. They can be stored for up to 3 months without losing quality.
Tips for Success
- Experiment with Yogurt: While Greek yogurt is recommended for its creaminess and high protein content, feel free to use any yogurt of your choice. Non-dairy yogurts or flavored varieties can add different tastes and textures.
- Choose Fresh Fruits: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh strawberries and blueberries when possible. If using frozen fruit, ensure it is unsweetened and thawed before mixing.
- Granola Alternatives: If you prefer, you can substitute the granola with crushed nuts, seeds, or even coconut flakes for a different crunch and flavor profile.
- Customize Your Bars: Feel free to get creative with additional toppings or mix-ins such as chocolate chips, chia seeds, or even nut butter swirls for added flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
These Frozen Yogurt Bars are a refreshing and satisfying treat that is perfect for warm weather or any time you need a light dessert. With only 3 SmartPoints per bar, they make for a guilt-free indulgence.
Packed with protein and fiber from Greek yogurt and fresh fruit, these bars provide a nutritious snack option that everyone will love. Enjoy the versatility of this recipe and customize it to your taste! Happy snacking!