CHERRY GARCIA YOGURT CLUSTERS
If you love Ben & Jerry’s iconic Cherry Garcia Ice Cream but want a lighter, naturally sweetened alternative with a refreshing crunch, these yogurt clusters are your perfect treat! They’re packed with juicy cherries, creamy yogurt, rich dark chocolate, and crunchy cacao nibs—delivering all the flavors you crave with way less sugar. Best of all, they’re super easy to make and perfect for a grab-and-go snack or a satisfying dessert!
Ingredients:
✅ 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped (sweet or tart, depending on preference)
✅ 1 cup yogurt of choice (Greek yogurt for extra creaminess, or coconut yogurt for a dairy-free option)
✅ 1 tbsp maple syrup or raw honey (optional, for a touch of natural sweetness)
✅ 1 tsp vanilla extract (adds warmth and depth to the flavor)
✅ 1/4 cup cacao nibs (for a crunchy, antioxidant-packed boost)
✅ 1/4 cup melted dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher for a rich and slightly bitter contrast)
✅ Flaky salt (optional, for a hint of balance and sophistication)
Instructions:
1️⃣ Mix the Base – In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cherries, yogurt, maple syrup (if using), vanilla extract, and cacao nibs. Stir until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be thick and creamy, with little bursts of cherry flavor in every bite!
2️⃣ Scoop onto a Baking Sheet – Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Using a spoon or a small cookie scoop, drop clusters of the yogurt mixture onto the sheet, spacing them apart so they don’t stick together. You can shape them into rounds or leave them naturally rustic!
3️⃣ Freeze Until Firm – Place the tray in the freezer for at least one hour to allow the clusters to set properly. The longer they freeze, the firmer they will be.
4️⃣ Drizzle with Dark Chocolate – Once the clusters are frozen solid, melt the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Using a spoon or piping bag, drizzle the melted chocolate over each frozen cluster.
5️⃣ Final Freeze & Optional Toppings – Pop the clusters back in the freezer for another 10-15 minutes until the chocolate hardens. If you love a sweet-and-salty contrast, sprinkle a little flaky salt on top while the chocolate is still slightly melted.
6️⃣ Enjoy! ❤️ – Once set, take them out and enjoy right away or store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks. Let them sit for a couple of minutes before eating for a softer, creamier texture.
Tips & Variations:
✨ Want extra crunch? Add chopped almonds, pistachios, or shredded coconut to the mix!
✨ Looking for a protein boost? Use Greek yogurt and stir in a scoop of vanilla protein powder.
✨ Prefer a sweeter treat? Mix in a handful of mini dark chocolate chips before freezing.
These Cherry Garcia Yogurt Clusters are the ultimate balance of creamy, crunchy, fruity, and chocolatey goodness! Perfect for hot days, post-workout snacks, or whenever your sweet tooth kicks in. Let me know if you try them!
