3 Ingredient High Protein Lemon Cheesecake Smoothie Pops

These 3 ingredient high protein smoothie pops are packed with nutritious ingredients making them the perfect prep ahead breakfast, snack or dessert for all ages!

Smoothie pops have got to be one of the funnest foods! There’s just something about food on a stick or in a bowl  that I swear makes it taste better! Haha.

These lemon cheesecake smoothie pops are:

• High in Protein
• High in Vitamin D
• High in Calcium

And they only take 5 minutes to prep!

Tip: I find that having quick ideas on hand always makes for an easier week, so I’ve created a list of my healthy meal prep breakfast recipes for you here and healthy meal prep smoothies here!

There are so many different flavor combos you could make – this creamy chocolate banana chia seed shake, strawberry basil smoothie, or hangover cure orange & ginger smoothie would all work really well too for different options. But let me tell you, this lemon cheesecake version is a must try!

Smoothie pops are also perfect for kids and toddlers! They’re a great way of getting a nutrient packed snack that feels exciting. Wylder has been LOVING these!! He loves to take one out onto the patio and proudly walk around with it – not gonna lie, a couple of them have seen the rocks and dirt, but at least he’s having fun?! Haha .

Are Smoothie Pops Healthy?

Yes! They totally are! What I love about these is the simplicity of the ingredients, and that they pack fat, fiber and protein for a balanced, filling snack or mini meal (since they’re smaller than a regular smoothie portion, I’d recommend eating a few if you’re going to have them as your breakfast, or pairing them with something else like muffin tin frittatas, toast & peanut butter, or hard boiled eggs for a bit of extra protein.

Nutrition Benefits of Lemon Cheesecake Smoothie Pops

Cottage Cheese

Protein: 

• Protein does so much for our body! It plays a structural role in muscles as well as in bone, teeth, skin, tendons, blood vessels, hair, nails and enzymes. 
• It also transports nutrients in our blood, and stores nutrients in our body. 
• Protein also provides us with energy and keeps us feeling full longer after eating!

Calcium:

• Calcium is an essential mineral for bone health! Getting adequate calcium is important to decrease risk of osteoporosis (decreased bone density) and osteomalacia (soft bones). 
• Calcium also plays a role in muscle contraction, nerve transmission, enzyme activity and blood clotting.

Yogurt

Probiotics:

• Healthy bacteria that help our gut thrive. Eating probiotic-rich foods daily helps maintain a healthy gut environment and have been linked to everything from improved digestion and absorption of nutrients, better immune function, decreased inflammation, and even improved mood and brain health.

Calcium: Benefits described above

Vitamin D:

• Among many other important functions, Vitamin D is calcium’s best friend as it increases the absorption of calcium into our blood. 

Oats

Fiber:

• Fiber has so many nutritional benefits! There are two types of fiber, soluble and insoluble fiber and oats have both!
• Soluble fiber expands in your stomach and lends to the feeling of satiety and fullness. It can also help to keep our blood sugars balanced and reduce the absorption of cholesterol.
• Insoluble fiber can aid digestion and help prevent constipation. Fiber has also been associated with decreased risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

Nuts/seeds

Iron:

• Iron is a mineral of many talents! It carries oxygen to cells in different areas of the body so that energy can be produced.
• Iron is also part of the pathway which creates energy in the body.
• Lastly, iron is essential in immune function!

Protein:

• Protein benefits described above

Healthy Fats:

• Sometimes fat gets a bad rap, however, fat is such a necessary and beneficial nutrient! It provides storage of energy in the body, plays a structural role in cells (specifically in the brain).
• Fat is also required for hormone and enzyme function.
• Fat is known as a satiety factor – it carries flavor molecules and keeps you feeling full longer!

Antioxidants:

• Antioxidants are important for cell health and can contribute to protecting our bodies from chronic disease like cancer, diabetes and heart disease by preventing damage to cells and tissues.

How to make Lemon Cheesecake Smoothie Pops

Making these smoothie pops couldn’t be easier! 

Combine yogurt and cottage cheese in a blender and blend until smooth consistency. Pour into popsicle molds, mixing or layering in the granola. Freeze for at least 3 hours or overnight. Alternatively, pour into a bowl and enjoy right away as a smoothie bowl!

Optional Add Ins for Lemon Cheesecake Smoothie Pops

For an extra boost of nutrition try adding:

• Hemp hearts
• Chia seeds
• Fresh or frozen fruit
• Blend in a few handfuls of greens, like spinach or romaine!

How to Store Homemade Smoothie Pops

Once smoothie pops have frozen, for easier storage, remove from popsicle molds and store in a re-usable ziploc bag in the freezer. 

Alternatively, freeze in an airtight container with parchment paper between each layer of popsicles.

Other High Protein & Prep Ahead Breakfast Options

• Muffin tin frittatas
• Healthy meal prep breakfast wrap
• Mix and match overnight oats
• Chia pudding 3 ways
  

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