Creating Vegan Frozen Strawberry Yogurt Bites is a fun and rewarding process! Follow this detailed step-by-step guide to ensure your treats turn out perfectly.

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Yogurt Filling:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
• 1 cup dairy-free yogurt (coconut, almond, or soy yogurt)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional for added sweetness)

For the Chocolate Coating:

• 1½ cups dairy-free chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• Pinch of flaky sea salt (optional)

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Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

Wash and Dice:

• Rinse the strawberries under cold water. Pat them dry with a clean towel.
• Remove the green tops and chop the strawberries into small, bite-sized pieces.

Mix Ingredients:

• In a mixing bowl, combine the diced strawberries with 1 cup of dairy-free yogurt.
• Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and, if desired, 1 teaspoon of maple syrup for sweetness.
• Gently fold the mixture until the strawberries are evenly coated with yogurt.

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Step 2: Form the Bites

Line a Baking Sheet:

• Take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Scoop the Mixture:

• Using a spoon or a small cookie scoop, take portions of the strawberry yogurt mixture and drop them onto the lined baking sheet.
• Aim for small mounds, about 1 inch in diameter. You can shape them into balls or keep them as blobs.

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Step 3: Freeze the Bites

Initial Freezing:

• Place the baking sheet in the freezer and let it sit for at least 2-4 hours, or until the bites are completely frozen.

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Step 4: Melt the Chocolate Coating

Prepare to Melt:

• In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1½ cups of dairy-free chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. The coconut oil helps to create a smooth coating.

Melt the Chocolate:

• Microwave in short bursts (about 30 seconds), stirring in between until fully melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can melt it using a double boiler on the stove.

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Step 5: Coat the Bites

Remove from Freezer:

• Take the frozen strawberry yogurt bites out of the freezer.

Dip Each Bite:

• Using a fork, dip each frozen bite into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated.
• Gently tap the fork on the edge of the bowl to let any excess chocolate drip off.

Place Back on Baking Sheet:

• Return each coated bite to the parchment-lined baking sheet.

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Step 6: Finish and Serve

Add Sea Salt (Optional):

• If desired, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over each chocolate-coated bite while they are still wet for an extra flavor boost.

Final Freezing:

• Return the baking sheet to the freezer for about 30 minutes to allow the chocolate coating to set completely.

Enjoy Your Treats!

• Once set, your Vegan Frozen Strawberry Yogurt Bites are ready to enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer.

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Tips for Success

• Customization: Feel free to experiment with different fruits like blueberries or raspberries in place of strawberries.
• Storage: These bites can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks.
• Serving Suggestions: Enjoy them as a snack or dessert on hot days, or serve them at parties for a delightful treat!

Can I Use Any Other Type of Fruit Instead of Strawberries?

Yes, you can use a variety of fruits in place of strawberries for your frozen yogurt bites. Some great alternatives include:

• Blueberries: Their small size makes them easy to mix into yogurt.
• Raspberries: These add a tart flavor and can be used whole or mashed.
• Bananas: Mashed bananas can create a creamy texture and natural sweetness.
• Mango: Diced mango adds a tropical twist and vibrant color.
• Peaches: Fresh or frozen diced peaches work well for a juicy bite.

Feel free to experiment with seasonal fruits or your favorites to create unique flavor combinations!

What’s the Best Way to Melt Vegan Chocolate Chips?

Melting vegan chocolate chips can be done effectively using two methods:

1. Microwave Method:

• Place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl.
• Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until the chocolate is smooth and glossy. This method is quick but requires careful monitoring to avoid scorching[1][3].

1. Stovetop Method (Double Boiler):

• Fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a simmer.
• Place a heatproof bowl on top of the pot, ensuring it doesn’t touch the water.
• Add the chocolate chips to the bowl and stir continuously until melted. This method allows for more control over the melting process[1][2].

For both methods, adding a teaspoon of coconut oil can help achieve a thinner, smoother consistency.

How Long Can These Bites Be Stored in the Freezer?

Vegan frozen strawberry yogurt bites can be stored in the freezer for up to two weeks. To maintain their best quality, keep them in an airtight container or ziplock bag to prevent freezer burn. For longer storage, they may last up to three months, but their texture and flavor may degrade over time.

Are There Any Other Nut Butters I Can Use Instead of Peanut Butter?

Yes, there are several nut butters you can use as substitutes for peanut butter:

• Almond Butter: Offers a milder taste and creamy texture.
• Cashew Butter: Provides a rich, sweet flavor that complements fruits well.
• Sunflower Seed Butter: A great nut-free alternative; it has a distinct taste and is safe for those with nut allergies.
• Hazelnut Butter: Adds a unique flavor profile, especially delicious with chocolate.

These alternatives can be used in similar quantities as peanut butter in your recipes.

Can I Make These Bites Without the Chocolate Coating?

Absolutely! You can make vegan frozen strawberry yogurt bites without the chocolate coating. Simply prepare the yogurt mixture as directed and freeze it into bite-sized portions. For added flavor and texture, consider rolling them in crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or even drizzling with a bit of maple syrup before serving. This way, you still enjoy a delicious treat without the chocolate!

Enjoy your delicious homemade Vegan Frozen Strawberry Yogurt Bites!