Transform your favorite Greek yogurt and fresh fruits into delightful frozen treats that make the perfect breakfast, snack, or dessert alternative. These customizable yogurt clusters combine creamy texture with fruity sweetness and satisfying crunch, offering a nutritious option that both kids and adults will love.
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 2 cups Greek yogurt (450g/16 oz), plain or flavored
- 1-2 tablespoons (15-30ml) honey or maple syrup (optional)
For the Toppings:
- ½ cup mixed fresh fruits (70g), such as:
- Blueberries
- Diced strawberries
- Raspberries
- ¼ cup granola (30g)
- 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (15g), almonds or walnuts
- ¼ cup chocolate chips (45g), dark or white chocolate
Detailed Instructions
Preparation Phase:
- Line a standard baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat, ensuring complete coverage.
- If using frozen fruits, thaw and pat dry to prevent ice crystals.
- Chop larger fruits into bite-sized pieces for even distribution.
Creating the Base:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt with honey or maple syrup.
- Stir thoroughly until sweetener is completely incorporated.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
Forming the Clusters:
- Using a tablespoon or small ice cream scoop, drop 2-3 tablespoon portions onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Spread each portion into 2-3 inch circles using the back of a spoon.
- Leave about 1 inch space between clusters.
Adding Toppings:
- Press fresh fruits gently into each yogurt cluster.
- Sprinkle granola evenly over each cluster.
- Add chopped nuts, distributing them equally.
Chocolate Drizzle (Optional):
- Place chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Heat in 15-second intervals, stirring between each.
- Continue until chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Using a spoon or piping bag, drizzle melted chocolate over clusters.
Freezing:
- Carefully transfer baking sheet to freezer.
- Ensure sheet is placed on a flat surface.
- Freeze for minimum 2 hours until completely solid.
Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Freeze Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 clusters
Nutritional Information (per cluster)
- Calories: 95
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g
- Calcium: 8% DV
- Iron: 2% DV
Pro Tips and Tricks
- Use thick Greek yogurt for best results – strain regular yogurt if necessary.
- Pat fruits dry thoroughly to prevent ice crystals.
- Work quickly to prevent yogurt from becoming too soft.
- Create uniform-sized clusters for even freezing.
Variations and Substitutions
Base Options:
- Vanilla Greek yogurt
- Flavored Greek yogurt
- Non-dairy yogurt alternatives
- Skyr or Icelandic yogurt
Fruit Combinations:
- Tropical: Mango, pineapple, kiwi
- Berry Mix: Strawberries, blueberries, blackberries
- Stone Fruit: Peaches, nectarines, plums
Crunchy Toppings:
- Coconut flakes
- Crushed graham crackers
- Seeds (pumpkin, sunflower)
- Different granola varieties
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do these clusters stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, they maintain quality for up to 1 month in the freezer.
Can I use frozen fruits instead of fresh?
Yes, but thaw and pat them dry first to prevent excess ice formation.
Why did my clusters develop ice crystals?
This usually happens when fruits are too wet or when clusters are exposed to air. Ensure fruits are dry and container is truly airtight.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use coconut yogurt or any plant-based yogurt alternative.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Proper Storage:
- Transfer frozen clusters to airtight container
- Place parchment paper between layers
- Keep in freezer at 0°F (-18°C)
- Consume within 1 month
Make-Ahead Preparation:
- Prepare fruits up to 24 hours ahead
- Mix yogurt base in advance
- Chop nuts and store in airtight container
- Pre-portion ingredients for quick assembly
These frozen yogurt clusters offer a versatile and nutritious option for meal prep, after-school snacks, or healthy desserts. Their endless customization possibilities make them perfect for accommodating different dietary preferences while maintaining their delicious appeal.
