Peanut Butter Yogurt Treat

This peanut butter frozen yogurt bar recipe combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the tanginess of Greek yogurt, all wrapped in a decadent chocolate coating. Perfect for hot summer days or whenever you need a sweet frozen treat.

I first made these bars during a particularly brutal heatwave last summer, and they've become our family's favorite cool-down treat. My kids now ask for them instead of store-bought ice cream.

Ingredients

• Plain Greek yogurt: Provides protein and tangy flavor while creating the perfect creamy base
• Creamy peanut butter: Adds rich flavor and helps the bars freeze with a softer texture
• Maple syrup or honey: Sweetens naturally without being overpowering
• Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors and adds warmth
• Roasted and salted peanuts: Create a delightful crunchy contrast and salty bite
• Chocolate chips or chopped chocolate: Works best when using high quality varieties
• Coconut oil: Helps thin the chocolate for dipping and creates a perfect shell that cracks when bitten

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pan:

Line a baking sheet with wax paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. This preparation step is crucial as it will make it much easier to remove the frozen bars later.

Mix the Yogurt Filling:

In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, creamy peanut butter, maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly until completely smooth, making sure no streaks of peanut butter remain. The mixture should have a thick, creamy consistency.

Form the Bars:

Use a cupcake or ice cream scoop to dollop about half of the yogurt mixture into 4 to 6 mounds on the prepared pan. Press a popsicle stick firmly into each mound, making sure it's secure. Top each mound with remaining yogurt mixture, covering the base of the popsicle stick. Use a small offset spatula to gently flatten the tops of the mounds.

Add Peanuts and Freeze:

Evenly scatter the roasted and salted peanuts over each yogurt mound, pressing them lightly into the surface. Place the entire pan in the freezer for at least 2 hours or until completely frozen solid. Longer freezing time will ensure they hold their shape when dipped.

Prepare the Chocolate Coating:

Once bars are frozen, combine chocolate chips or chopped chocolate with coconut oil in a microwave safe bowl. Heat at 50% power for 30 seconds, then stir. Continue microwaving in 15 to 20 second intervals, stirring between each, until chocolate is completely melted and smooth.

Dip and Serve:

Working quickly, remove the frozen bars from the freezer. Dip each bar into the melted chocolate, tilting the bowl as needed to coat the sides. Place dipped bars back on the lined baking sheet. Enjoy immediately for a contrast of textures or return to freezer for later consumption.

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The Greek yogurt is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered this combination when trying to create healthier treats for my family. The first time I served these, my husband couldn't believe they weren't made with ice cream.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

These bars can be prepared up to two weeks in advance, making them perfect for summer parties. Store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. The longer they freeze, the harder they become, so allow 5 to 10 minutes of thawing time before serving from a deep freeze. For best results, dip in chocolate just before serving for the freshest taste and perfect texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a dairy free version, substitute the Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt and use dairy free chocolate chips. Almond butter or sunflower seed butter can replace peanut butter for those with allergies. The sweetener is flexible too. Brown rice syrup or agave nectar work just as well as maple syrup or honey. For a lower sugar option, try using stevia sweetened chocolate for the coating and a tablespoon of powdered monk fruit sweetener instead of the liquid sweeteners.

Flavor Variations

These versatile bars can be customized in countless ways. Try adding mini chocolate chips directly into the yogurt mixture for chocolate in every bite. Swap the peanuts for crushed pretzels, graham cracker crumbs, or chopped cookies for different texture experiences. For fruit flavors, blend in 2 tablespoons of freeze dried strawberry powder or add a layer of fruit preserves in the middle of each bar. During the holidays, add a sprinkle of crushed candy canes on top of the chocolate coating for a festive peppermint touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How long do I need to freeze the bars?

You should freeze the bars for at least 2 hours or until they are completely solid.

→ Can I use different types of nuts for the topping?

Yes, you can use any type of nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans. Choose salted or unsalted according to your preference.

→ What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?

Plain regular yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt can be used as a substitute for Greek yogurt.

→ How should I store the bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Allow to thaw for 5-10 minutes before eating.

→ Can I make these bars sugar-free?

Yes, replace the maple syrup or honey with a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit syrup, and use sugar-free chocolate.

→ What can I use instead of chocolate for the coating?

You can use melted white chocolate, dark chocolate, or leave the bars uncoated for a lighter treat.