Desserts You Can Prep and Freeze

Tired of store-bought sweets? Craving a homemade treat but short on time? These six decadent desserts are designed to be prepped ahead and frozen, so you always have a delightful surprise waiting in your freezer.

1. Customizable No-Bake Cookie Dough Bites

Indulge your cookie dough cravings without the guilt! These no-bake bites are packed with wholesome ingredients and customizable with your favorite mix-ins.

Ingredients

• 1 cup almond flour or oat flour
• 1/2 cup creamy nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter)
• 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
• 1/4 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates)

Customization

• Swap the flour: Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Change the nut butter: Experiment with different nut butters or seed butters like sunflower seed butter.
• Vary the mix-ins: Add shredded coconut, pretzels, sprinkles, or any other favorite toppings.

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, nut butter, maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract. Stir until a dough forms.
2. Fold in the chocolate chips, nuts, and dried fruit.
3. Roll the dough into bite-sized balls.

Meal Prep Tips

• Bulk Prep: Double or triple the recipe for a large batch that lasts for weeks. Store in a single layer in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Snack Attack: Portion into individual snack bags for grab-and-go convenience.
• Thawing: Thaw desired number of bites in the refrigerator overnight or on the counter for 15-20 minutes.

2. Mini Freezer Cheesecakes

These individual cheesecakes are perfect for portion control and can be customized with various toppings for endless variety.

Ingredients

• Crust:
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 4 tablespoons melted butter
• Filling:
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Toppings:
  • Fresh or frozen berries
  • Chocolate shavings
  • Caramel sauce
  • Chopped nuts

Customization

• Crust Variations: Use chocolate cookie crumbs, ginger snaps, or even pretzels for a different crust.
• Flavor Variations: Add lemon zest, chocolate chips, or pumpkin puree to the filling.

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a greased muffin tin.
3. Filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla, beat until combined.
4. Pour filling over crusts.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the center is almost set.
6. Cool completely, then add toppings.

Meal Prep Tips

Freeze the cheesecakes uncovered for 1 hour, then wrap each individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

• Freeze & Forget: Once baked and cooled, freeze these cheesecakes for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or for a few hours at room temperature before serving.
• Muffin Tin Magic: Use a silicone muffin tin for easy removal of cheesecakes.
• Topping Station: Set out a variety of toppings like fresh berries, chocolate shavings, caramel sauce, and chopped nuts for a DIY dessert bar.

3. “Magic Shell” Frozen Yogurt Bark

Capture the magic of childhood with this healthier twist on the classic “magic shell” topping. This frozen yogurt bark is a refreshing and easy-to-make treat.

Ingredients

• 2 cups thick Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup dark or milk chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• Toppings: sprinkles, chopped nuts, granola, etc.

Customization

• Yogurt Variations: Use flavored yogurt like vanilla or strawberry.
• Topping Ideas: Get creative with your toppings! Add dried fruit, shredded coconut, or even a drizzle of nut butter.

Instructions

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Spread the Greek yogurt evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
4. Drizzle the melted chocolate mixture over the yogurt.
5. Sprinkle with desired toppings.
6. Freeze for at least 2 hours, or until solid.
7. Break into pieces and enjoy!

Meal Prep Tip

• Sheet Pan Strategy: Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy removal of the bark.
• Double the Chocolate: For an extra decadent treat, double the amount of chocolate and coconut oil for a thicker shell.

4. Make-Ahead Smoothie Packs

Start your day with a burst of flavor and nutrition! These make-ahead smoothie packs are perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick and healthy breakfast or snack.

Ingredients (per pack)

• 1 cup frozen fruit (berries, banana chunks, mango, etc.)
• 1/2 cup leafy greens (spinach, kale)
• 1 scoop protein powder (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds, flax seeds, or nut butter (optional)

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a freezer-safe bag.
2. Squeeze out excess air and seal tightly.
3. Label with the date and contents.
4. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Meal Prep Tips

• Assembly Line: Set up an assembly line to quickly prep multiple smoothie packs at once.
• Smoothie Cube Trays: Freeze smoothie ingredients in ice cube trays, then transfer to freezer bags for easy portioning.
• Morning Routine: Keep a few packs in the refrigerator to thaw overnight for a quick morning smoothie.

5. Frozen Banana Bread “Nice Cream”

Banana bread lovers, rejoice! This frozen treat combines the comforting flavors of banana bread with the creamy texture of ice cream. It’s a healthier alternative that’s surprisingly simple to make.

Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas, peeled, sliced, and frozen
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
• Optional add-ins: chopped walnuts, chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Place the frozen banana slices in a food processor or high-powered blender.
2. Process until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
3. Add the cinnamon and nutmeg, and pulse to combine.
4. If desired, add the chopped walnuts and chocolate chips. Pulse a few times to incorporate.
5. Transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 2 hours, or until firm.

Meal Prep Tips

• Storage: This “nice cream” can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
• Serving: Let it thaw for a few minutes at room temperature before scooping and enjoying.

6: “Icebox Cake” Jars

Icebox cake in a jar? Yes, please! This deconstructed version is not only adorable but also incredibly convenient for meal prep. You can customize the layers with your favorite flavors and textures.

Ingredients

• Whipped cream or pudding
• Graham cracker crumbs or crushed cookies
• Fresh or frozen fruit (berries, sliced bananas, etc.)
• Other fillings: chocolate chips, caramel sauce, chopped nuts

Instructions

1. In individual jars or glasses, layer the ingredients in the following order: graham cracker crumbs, whipped cream or pudding, fruit, and additional fillings.
2. Repeat layers until the jar is full.
3. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

Meal Prep Tips

• Storage: These icebox cake jars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare a batch of icebox cake jars in advance for a quick and easy dessert option throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – six delicious desserts that defy the notion that meal prepping is just for savory dishes. With a little planning and these freezer-friendly recipes, you can enjoy homemade treats any day of the week without the stress of last-minute baking. Whether you’re satisfying a sweet tooth craving or looking for a healthy snack, these desserts offer something for everyone.