Description

Craving a refreshing, guilt-free treat that’s perfect for warm days or post-workout recovery? Chocolate Banana Protein Pops combine the creamy richness of cottage cheese, the natural sweetness of banana, and the chocolatey depth of cacao and protein powder for a protein-packed frozen delight.

Ingredients

Scale

Chocolate Banana Protein Pops use simple, wholesome ingredients to create a creamy, chocolatey treat. Here’s what you’ll need for 4-6 popsicles:

1 ¼ cups cottage cheese: Provides a creamy, protein-rich base.
2 tablespoons maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness.
1 banana: Contributes sweetness and a smooth texture.
1 tablespoon cacao powder: Delivers rich chocolate flavor.
1 scoop protein powder (chocolate or vanilla recommended): Boosts protein content and enhances flavor.

Why These Ingredients Matter

Cottage Cheese: Creates a creamy base with high protein and low fat.
Banana: Adds natural sweetness and a smooth, velvety texture.
Cacao Powder: Provides intense chocolate flavor with less processing than cocoa powder.
Protein Powder: Enhances protein content and complements the chocolate or vanilla profile.
Maple Syrup: Offers a natural sweetener to balance flavors.

Substitutions and Variations

Cottage Cheese: Use low-fat or full-fat; substitute with Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt for a vegan option (may alter texture).
Maple Syrup: Swap with honey, agave nectar, or a sugar-free sweetener like monk fruit syrup.
Banana: Replace with ½ cup mashed avocado or mango for a different flavor or texture.
Cacao Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder (1:1 ratio) if cacao is unavailable.
Protein Powder: Use any flavor (unflavored works); for vegan, use plant-based protein powder.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based yogurt and vegan protein powder; ensure maple syrup is vegan.
Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; ensure protein powder is certified gluten-free.
Flavor Variations:
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Pops: Add 1 tablespoon peanut butter to the blend.
- Mocha Banana Pops: Add ½ teaspoon instant coffee or espresso powder.
- Berry Chocolate Pops: Blend in ¼ cup frozen berries (strawberries or raspberries).
- Nutty Chocolate Pops: Stir in 2 tablespoons chopped almonds or hazelnuts after blending.

Optional Mix-Ins or Toppings (Add Before Freezing or After):

Chocolate Chips: 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips for extra texture.
Nuts: 2 tablespoons chopped peanuts or almonds for crunch.
Coconut: 1 tablespoon shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Drizzle: Melted dark chocolate or almond butter for dipping after freezing.

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Step 1: Gather and Prep

Gather all ingredients: 1 ¼ cups cottage cheese, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 banana, 1 tablespoon cacao powder, and 1 scoop chocolate or vanilla protein powder.
Ensure cottage cheese is chilled and banana is ripe for optimal sweetness and blending.

Tip: Use full-fat cottage cheese for a creamier texture; low-fat works for a lighter option.

Step 2: Blend Ingredients

In a blender, combine 1 ¼ cups cottage cheese, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 banana, 1 tablespoon cacao powder, and 1 scoop protein powder.
Blend for 30-60 seconds, or until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.

Tip: Blend thoroughly to eliminate cottage cheese curds and ensure a silky texture; add 1-2 tablespoons milk if too thick to blend.

Step 3: Fill Molds

Pour the blended mixture evenly into 4-6 popsicle molds (depending on mold size, typically 3-4 ounces each).
If using mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, stir them into the mixture before pouring or sprinkle into the molds.
Insert popsicle sticks and tap molds gently to remove air bubbles.

Tip: Use silicone molds for easy removal; if using plastic molds, lightly grease with cooking spray.

Step 4: Freeze

Transfer the popsicle molds to the freezer and freeze overnight (8-12 hours) or until fully solid.

Tip: Ensure molds are level in the freezer to prevent uneven freezing.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the popsicles from the freezer.
Run the molds under warm water for 10-20 seconds to loosen, then gently remove the popsicles.
Optionally dip in melted chocolate or drizzle with almond butter and sprinkle with toppings like nuts or coconut.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tip: If popsicles are too hard, let them sit for 1-2 minutes at room temperature before eating.