Strawberry Yoghurt Protein Bars

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries (to make about ½ cup pureed)
• ¾ cup protein powder (e.g., MyProtein Whey Strawberry, or a vanilla-flavored protein powder)
• 1 cup 0% fat Greek yogurt
• 0.7 oz (20g) freeze-dried strawberries, finely chopped
• 7 oz chocolate (70% cocoa content or your preferred chocolate type)
• 3 tsp honey
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Freezer Container:

• Line a freezer-proof container with parchment paper, ensuring the base is covered. This makes it easier to remove and cut the bars later.

2. Puree the Fresh Strawberries:

• Clean and roughly chop the fresh strawberries. Mash them with a fork or puree them in a blender until smooth.

3. Chop the Freeze-Dried Strawberries:

• Finely chop the freeze-dried strawberries. Set aside a small portion for decorating, if desired.

4. Mix the Ingredients:

• In a medium bowl, combine the pureed fresh strawberries, protein powder, Greek yogurt, finely chopped freeze-dried strawberries, honey, and lemon juice. Mix everything together until creamy and well-combined.

5. Freeze the Mixture:

• Pour the strawberry-protein mixture into the prepared container. Spread it evenly, and freeze for at least 3 hours or until very solid.

6. Coat with Chocolate:

• Once the mixture is frozen, remove it from the container and place it on a chopping board. Use a sharp, hot, and dry knife to cut the mixture into bars. (Tip: Dip the knife in hot water between cuts and dry it with a towel to avoid water crystals on the bars.)
• Return the bars to the container and freeze again while preparing the chocolate coating.

7. Melt the Chocolate:

• Break or chop the dark chocolate and place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until the chocolate is melted and creamy. Alternatively, melt the chocolate using a water bath on the stove (ensure the bowl doesn’t touch the water).

8. Coat the Bars:

• Once the chocolate is melted, dip the frozen strawberry protein bars into the chocolate, coating them fully. Optionally, sprinkle the reserved freeze-dried strawberries on top for decoration.

9. Freeze Again:

• Return the coated bars to the freezer and allow them to set for a few minutes until the chocolate hardens.

10. Serve:

• Once the chocolate has set, remove the bars from the freezer. Enjoy them immediately, or store them in a freezer-proof container for up to 3 months.

Notes:

• Storage: These bars can be stored frozen in a freezer-proof container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Customization: Feel free to use any protein powder flavor you like. Vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry will all work well in this recipe.
• Optional Toppings: You can top the bars with extra freeze-dried strawberries or other toppings like shredded coconut or chopped nuts for added texture.

These Strawberry Protein Bars are a perfect combination of sweetness, protein, and chocolate, making them a great choice for anyone looking for a healthy and satisfying snack!