There’s something about a bowl of soft serve that instantly feels like summer. The only difference with this version is that it’s made from wholesome ingredients you probably already have at home.
This recipe first became a regular in our house after I started freezing overripe bananas instead of throwing them away. Blended with yoghurt, vanilla protein powder and a pinch of cinnamon, they transform into a thick, velvety soft serve that genuinely tastes like dessert. It’s one of those recipes that’s almost too easy not to make.
If you’ve been enjoying my healthier dessert recipes, this one fits perfectly alongside my Vegan Chocolate Mousse, Chocolate Chia Pudding, Raspberry Protein Pudding and Vanilla & Coconut Truffles. They’re all simple recipes that satisfy a sweet tooth while using everyday ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 5 minutes — perfect when you want dessert without the wait.
- High in protein — protein powder and yoghurt help make this a more satisfying sweet treat.
- Naturally sweetened — ripe frozen bananas provide all the sweetness you need.
- No ice cream maker required — simply blend and serve.
- Perfect for summer — cool, refreshing and incredibly creamy.
Ingredients
Serves 2
Frozen bananas — the secret to achieving a thick, creamy soft serve texture. Use ripe bananas for the sweetest flavour.
Vanilla or natural yoghurt — adds creaminess and a slight tang while boosting the protein content.
Vanilla whey or pea protein powder — adds extra protein and enhances the vanilla flavour. Either dairy or plant-based protein works well.
Ground cinnamon — adds gentle warmth and complements the banana beautifully.
Fresh berries — the perfect topping, adding freshness, colour and a little tartness.
What You Need to Do
- Slice the bananas before freezing so they’re easier to blend. Freeze until completely solid.
- Add the frozen banana slices, yoghurt, protein powder and cinnamon to a food processor or high-speed blender.
- Blend for 2–3 minutes, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides if needed. The mixture will gradually become thick, smooth and creamy.
- Divide between two bowls.
- Finish with fresh berries and serve immediately while the soft serve is perfectly creamy.
Tips & Variations
- Freeze ripe bananas: The riper they are, the sweeter and creamier your soft serve will be.
- Make it chocolate: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a healthy chocolate version.
- Boost the toppings: Try chopped nuts, toasted coconut, cacao nibs or a drizzle of peanut butter.
- Use Greek yoghurt: This increases the protein content even further while making the texture extra creamy.
- Make it vegan: Use dairy-free yoghurt and a pea protein powder.
- Serve immediately: Soft serve has the best texture straight after blending.
If you’re building a freezer full of healthier desserts, pair this with my Chocolate Chia Pudding for chocolate lovers, or keep a batch of Vanilla & Coconut Truffles in the fridge for easy grab-and-go sweet treats.
Looking for more fruity desserts? My Kiwi Chia Protein Pudding and Raspberry Protein Pudding are both perfect make-ahead options packed with fresh fruit and protein.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make banana soft serve ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed immediately after blending. If frozen again, it becomes much firmer and may need to soften for 10–15 minutes before scooping.
Do I need an ice cream maker?
No. A food processor or powerful blender is all you need to create the creamy soft serve texture.
Can I make this without protein powder?
Yes. Simply leave it out for a lighter dessert, although the protein content will be lower.
What yoghurt works best?
Greek yoghurt creates the thickest texture, while natural yoghurt gives a lighter consistency. Dairy-free yoghurts also work well.
Can I add other fruit?
Absolutely. Strawberries, mango, blueberries or raspberries all blend beautifully with banana.
Ingredients
- 2 medium bananas sliced and frozen
- 4 tbsp vanilla or natural yoghurt
- 1 scoop (25g)vanilla whey or pea protein powder
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- Fresh berries to serve
Instructions
- Freeze sliced bananas until completely solid.
- Add bananas, yoghurt, protein powder and cinnamon to a food processor.
- Blend for 2–3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
- Divide between bowls.
- Top with fresh berries and serve immediately.
Notes
- Freeze bananas in slices to make blending easier.
- Use ripe bananas for the sweetest flavour.
- Blend patiently as the mixture transforms into soft serve.
- Serve immediately for the creamiest texture.
- Add your favourite toppings before serving.
Nutrition
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