Do I have to add protein powder?

You can leave out the protein powder if you want, but it will definitely change the flavor. If you decide to leave it out, then you'll probably want to add in more cocoa powder (1-2 Tbsp).

Can I use any protein powder?

Most protein powders should work for this recipe, but the best ones will be either beef protein isolate, whey protein or collagen peptides. You can also use a chocolate, vanilla or mint flavored protein powder instead of the chocolate mint one I used.

Can I make these mint chocolate ice cream bars vegan?

Yes, you can make them vegan by swapping the protein powder for a vegan protein powder. Just note, this may change the texture of the ice cream filling.

Chocolate Mint Ice Cream Bars (High Protein)

Description

These chocolate mint ice cream bars are the perfect summer treat! They have a sweet chocolate-mint flavor and are high in protein.

Ingredients

Scale

Ice Cream

1/2 cup pitted Medjool Dates (about 8)*
1 can full fat coconut milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp peppermint flavoring
1/4 cup mint chocolate protein**
1 Tbsp cocoa powder
pinch of salt

Coating

1 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
1 Tbsp coconut oil

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Instructions

Put the popsicle molds on a baking sheet so that they have a flat, level surface to freeze on.
Place all filling ingredients in a blender. Blend, starting at a low speed, and gradually increasing the speed until the mixture is smooth.
Place the popsicle sticks in the popsicle mold, then pour the filling mixture into the molds.
Freeze overnight, or for at least 6 hours.
Place the dark chocolate and coconut oil in a small saucepan and melt over the stovetop at very low heat, stirring frequently. Once melted, pour the chocolate into a tall cup to dip the bars.
Take the ice cream bars our of the freezer. Remove them all from their molds and dip them into the melted chocolate. You need to work quickly so that the ice cream filling doesn't get too melty.
Place the dipped ice cream bars on a parchment lined baking sheet to set.
Store the ice cream bars in an airtight baggie in the freezer.

Notes

*Soak the dates in hot water to soften them: Warm a pot of hot water. Place the dates in a bowl and pour the hot water over them, until they are fully submerged. Let the dates sit for 5 minutes, then drain the water.

**I used Equip Mint Chocolate Prime Protein, but a vanilla, chocolate or mint protein powder will work too. For best results, I recommend a beef protein isolate, whey protein or collagen peptides.