Protein Lavender Vanilla Yogurt Bake – Low Calorie Greek Yogurt Dessert

Craving a sweet treat that won’t derail your healthy eating goals? This Protein Lavender Vanilla Yogurt Bake is a delightful solution.

It’s a low-calorie Greek yogurt dessert that brings together the soothing notes of lavender and the classic comfort of vanilla in a satisfying, protein-packed package. Each serving provides about 25 grams of protein.

This recipe is incredibly straightforward, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a simple weekend indulgence. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a guilt-free dessert that feels gourmet but requires minimal effort and simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.

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What You’ll Love About This Quick And Easy Recipe

This recipe is a true winner for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, healthy dessert without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s designed for busy individuals and families who appreciate wholesome ingredients and crave something sweet after a meal or as a satisfying snack. The combination of creamy Greek yogurt, fragrant lavender, and warm vanilla creates a unique flavor profile that feels both elegant and comforting. It’s perfect for a light after-dinner treat, a nutritious breakfast option, or even a post-workout recovery snack. Its low-calorie and high-protein nature makes it an excellent choice for those managing their weight or simply aiming for a more balanced diet.

Everything You Need To Make This Recipe Without Stress

Gathering your ingredients for this yogurt bake is simple, and you likely have most of them in your pantry and fridge already. The focus is on accessible, healthy components that come together beautifully.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 cups plain non-fat Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup sugar-free vanilla syrup
• 1 tablespoon culinary lavender buds
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: Fresh berries for serving

When selecting your ingredients, opt for high-quality plain non-fat Greek yogurt for the best texture and protein content. If you don’t have sugar-free vanilla syrup, you can use regular vanilla syrup and adjust for sweetness, or use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia to taste, along with an extra teaspoon of vanilla extract. Ensure you’re using culinary-grade lavender buds, as not all lavender is safe for consumption. Almond milk can be swapped for any unsweetened milk of your choice, such as soy milk or skim milk, without significantly altering the nutritional profile. Cornstarch is crucial for thickening the bake; if you don’t have it, a small amount of arrowroot powder can work as a substitute, though cornstarch is preferred for its neutral flavor and reliable thickening power.

Time Needed From Start To Finish

This recipe is designed for efficiency, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dessert without a long wait.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

How To Make It Step By Step With Visual Cues

Creating this Protein Lavender Vanilla Yogurt Bake is a straightforward process, even for beginner cooks. Follow these steps for a perfect result every time.

1. Prepare Your Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter to prevent sticking. This ensures easy removal once baked.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the plain non-fat Greek yogurt, sugar-free vanilla syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps for a creamy base.
3. Infuse the Lavender: In a small saucepan, gently heat the unsweetened almond milk with the culinary lavender buds over low heat for about 5 minutes. Do not boil. This step helps to infuse the milk with the delicate lavender flavor. Strain the milk through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the lavender buds, pressing lightly to extract all the liquid. Discard the buds.
4. Whisk in the Egg and Thickener: In a separate small bowl, whisk the egg until lightly beaten. In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry. Add the whisked egg, the lavender-infused almond milk, the cornstarch slurry, and a pinch of salt to the yogurt mixture. Whisk everything together thoroughly until well combined and smooth.
5. Pour and Bake: Pour the yogurt mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven.
6. Bake Until Set: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden, and the center has a slight jiggle when gently shaken. The bake will firm up further as it cools.
7. Cool and Chill: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack at room temperature. Once cooled, cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the bake to fully set.
8. Serve and Garnish: Once chilled, slice the yogurt bake into portions. Serve cold, optionally garnished with fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries for a pop of color and extra freshness.

Easy Variations And Serving Ideas That Fit Real Life

This Protein Lavender Vanilla Yogurt Bake is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit various tastes and occasions. For a kid-friendly twist, you might reduce the lavender slightly or omit it entirely, focusing on a pure vanilla flavor. You can also swirl in a tablespoon of sugar-free fruit preserves or a drizzle of sugar-free chocolate syrup before baking for added sweetness and flavor.

When serving, fresh berries are always a fantastic complement, adding natural sweetness and a vibrant contrast. Consider a sprinkle of toasted slivered almonds or a light dusting of powdered erythritol for an elegant touch. This bake is wonderful as a light breakfast with a side of coffee, a refreshing afternoon snack, or a sophisticated yet simple dessert after dinner. For a party or buffet, cut it into small squares and arrange them on a platter with a variety of fresh fruits. You could also serve individual portions in small ramekins for a more personalized presentation.

Common Slip-Ups And How To Avoid Them

Even simple recipes can have common pitfalls. Being aware of these can help you achieve a perfect yogurt bake every time.

• Over-baking: Baking for too long can result in a dry, rubbery texture. Keep an eye on the bake; it should still have a slight jiggle in the center when you remove it from the oven. It will continue to set as it cools.
• Not straining the lavender: Forgetting to strain the lavender buds from the milk will leave you with a gritty texture and potentially an overpowering floral taste. Always use a fine-mesh sieve to ensure a smooth infusion.
• Using regular yogurt instead of Greek: Regular yogurt has a much higher water content and will not set properly, resulting in a runny bake. Greek yogurt’s thickness is essential for the desired consistency.
• Not chilling long enough: The chilling step is crucial for the bake to fully set and for the flavors to deepen. Rushing this step will result in a softer, less firm dessert.
• Incorrect cornstarch mixture: If the cornstarch isn’t fully dissolved in cold water before being added, it can create lumps in your bake. Always make a smooth slurry first.

How To Store It And Make It Ahead Without Ruining Texture

This Protein Lavender Vanilla Yogurt Bake is an excellent make-ahead dessert, perfect for meal prepping or preparing for guests.

• Storing Leftovers: Once cooled and chilled, store any leftover yogurt bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.
• Making Ahead: You can prepare the entire bake up to 2 days in advance. Simply follow all the steps, including baking and chilling, then store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This is ideal for entertaining or ensuring you have a healthy dessert ready throughout the week.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended for this recipe. The texture of Greek yogurt can become grainy and watery after thawing, compromising the smooth, creamy consistency of the bake. It’s best enjoyed fresh from the refrigerator.
• Reheating: This dessert is meant to be served chilled, so reheating is not necessary or recommended. Enjoy it straight from the fridge for the best flavor and texture.

Questions People Always Ask Before Making This Recipe

Can I use a different type of sweetener?

Yes, you can. If you don’t have sugar-free vanilla syrup, you can use any sugar substitute like erythritol, stevia, or monk fruit to taste, along with an extra teaspoon of vanilla extract. Adjust the amount based on the sweetness level you prefer.

Is culinary lavender essential?

Yes, it is crucial to use culinary-grade lavender buds. Decorative or craft lavender may contain pesticides or other chemicals not safe for consumption. Culinary lavender is specifically grown and processed for food use.

What if I don’t like lavender?

If lavender isn’t your preference, you can omit it entirely and make a pure vanilla Greek yogurt bake. You could also experiment with other extracts like almond or lemon for

FAQs

• Can I make these ahead? Yes—prep ahead, refrigerate, then serve when ready.
• How long do leftovers last? Store covered in the fridge for 3–4 days for best texture.
• Can I adjust sweetness? Yes—add more or less sweetener to taste.
• Can I change the fruit? Yes—swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or sliced banana.