Save to Pinterest Last summer after a particularly grueling morning workout, my usual post-gym snack felt completely uninspiring. I stared at my protein shaker and the overripe bananas sitting on the counter, wishing healthy food could actually feel like a treat instead of fuel. That random afternoon experiment blending everything together completely changed how I think about recovery food.
My roommate walked in while I was scraping the blender clean and demanded a bowl. Now we argue over who gets to make them after our Sunday morning runs. The best part is watching peoples faces when they realize something this creamy is actually good for them.
Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana, sliced and frozen: Freezing sliced bananas instead of whole chunks makes blending so much easier on your blender
- 1 cup (240 ml) vanilla or chocolate protein shake: Use your favorite brand because you will really taste it here
- 1/2 cup (120 g) Greek yogurt: This is what creates that incredibly creamy gelato-like texture
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: Only add this if your protein shake is not sweet enough already
Instructions
- Blend your base:
- Combine frozen banana, protein shake, Greek yogurt, and optional sweetener in a high-speed blender, stopping to scrape down sides as needed
- Adjust the texture:
- If the mixture is too thick, add a splash more protein shake until it reaches soft-serve consistency
- Portion into bowls:
- Pour the creamy mixture into two freezer-safe bowls or containers
- Add your toppings:
- Sprinkle granola, chia seeds, fresh berries, and nut butter on top however you like
- Choose your texture:
- Enjoy immediately as soft-serve or freeze for 30-60 minutes for a firmer ice cream consistency
Save to Pinterest These bowls became my go-to during finals week when I needed something comforting but did not want the sugar crash from real ice cream. My sister now requests them every time she visits, and she is not even into fitness.
Make It Your Own
Swap the frozen banana for mango chunks and coconut yogurt for a tropical twist that will transport you straight to the beach. Frozen berries work beautifully too, though the texture will be slightly more icy than creamy.
Protein Boost Options
Feel free to add an extra scoop of protein powder directly into the blender if you have higher protein needs. Chocolate protein powder turns this into something remarkably similar to chocolate soft serve.
Serving Suggestions
These bowls are perfect for meal prep and can be made in advance. Serve them in fancy glass bowls for dessert after dinner or keep it casual in mugs for a quick post-workout snack.
- Top with cacao nibs for chocolate crunch without extra sugar
- Drizzle with peanut butter warmed in the microwave for 15 seconds
- Store extra portions in the freezer for up to one week
Save to Pinterest Sometimes the healthiest discoveries taste the best.
Recipe FAQs
- → What ingredients create the creamy base?
The base blends frozen banana, protein shake, and Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative for a smooth texture.
- → Can I customize the toppings?
Yes, toppings like granola, chia seeds, fresh berries, and nut butters add crunch and flavor.
- → How long should the bowls be frozen for a firmer texture?
Freezing for 30 to 60 minutes firms the bowls; otherwise, enjoy immediately as soft-serve.
- → Are there dairy-free options available?
Use plant-based protein shakes and dairy-free yogurt to make the bowls dairy-free.
- → What variations can I try with the fruit base?
Frozen mango or berries can replace banana for different flavor profiles.