Dilly bars bring back one of those soft, golden memories I didn’t know I had until the first bite. I remember walking hand-in-hand with my daughter down the small-town street after school, her backpack bouncing, mine loaded with grocery lists and grown-up worries. We ducked into our local ice cream shop for “just a treat,” and that’s when she picked the one with the perfect chocolate shell and wooden stick: a Dilly Bar.
The moment she took her first bite, her eyes lit up like she’d discovered magic. And just like that, I was back in my own childhood standing in my grandmother’s kitchen, watching her pull frozen molds from the chest freezer, her apron always dusted with flour and love.
Since then, I’ve been making homemade Dilly Bars for quiet moments and sweet surprises. They’re easy, comforting, and just fancy enough to feel special. Whether you grew up with them or you’re discovering them fresh, these little frozen treats are pure joy on a stick and today, I’m sharing the recipe that’s filled with love, chocolate, and memories.
Table of Contents
What Is Dilly Bars? Why They Matter
A dilly bar is Dairy Queen’s signature frozen vanilla custard treat, shaped into a flat disc, dipped in chocolate coating, and served with a stick. But they’re so much more than dessert, they’re:
- A moment of everyday magic: That chocolate snap, the soft, creamy filling, it’s a tiny comfort food ritual.
- A family tradition: Generations have held that melting swirl.
- An emotional touchstone: Reminds us of childhood, simple joys, and slow afternoons.
Here’s why dilly bars deserve a permanent place in your kitchen ritual:
- Satisfies your sweet craving without going overboard: single-serve, simple pleasure.
- Made with custard base: richer texture than regular ice cream.
- Portable on a stick: perfect for picnics, after-school treats, or weekend walks.
How to Make Homemade Dilly Bars
Here’s how I make mine, simple, protein-rich, and freezer-friendly, so you can recreate that chocolate-dipped nostalgia in your own kitchen:
Protein Dilly Bars Ingredients
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla, full-fat for creaminess)
- ½ cup cottage cheese (trust me, it makes it ultra creamy and boosts protein!)
- 2 scoops vanilla or chocolate protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- 2–3 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups dark chocolate chips (or sugar-free chocolate chips)
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- Popsicle molds + sticks
The protein powder is optional, you can add it to get more protein in your dilly bar recipe.
Instructions:
- Blend the base: In a blender, combine Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, protein powder, vanilla, and sweetener (if using). Blend until ultra-smooth and creamy.
- Pour into molds: Pour the mixture evenly into your popsicle molds. Tap gently to release air bubbles.
- Insert sticks and freeze for at least 4–6 hours or until completely firm.
- Melt the chocolate: In a small bowl, melt chocolate chips with coconut oil (microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring in between).
- Dip the bars: Once the bars are frozen, carefully remove from molds and dip each into the melted chocolate. Let excess drip off.
- Set and store: Lay dipped bars on a parchment-lined tray and place in the freezer for 10 minutes to harden. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
These are perfect for post-workout snacks or dessert after dinner. I love having one with my afternoon coffee, it’s like a protein boost with a hug of chocolate.
Serving Suggestions & Rituals
I love offering these homemade dilly bars after a Sunday family movie night. The ritual is simple: kids grab a warm blanket, I bring out the frozen bars on a chilled tray, and we hush while the chocolate snaps under eager teeth.
- Pair with coffee: The cool custard and warm brew balance beautifully.
- Serve alongside fruit: A few fresh berries add brightness.
- Wrap extras: Individually wrap in parchment and gift to busy friends or tuck in lunchboxes, the perfect portable treat.
You might also remember my whipped honey coffee recipe, these bars pair so well with that creamy, sweet drink. Try that for an extra cozy combo.
Tips, Variations & Substitutions
- Flavor twists: Cinnamon-custard with dark chocolate; orange zest custard with milk chocolate; mint custard dipped in white.
- Healthier swaps: Substitute heavy cream for half Greek yogurt to reduce fat.
- Dairy-free: Use coconut cream and almond milk; allow extra chilling time.
- Nut coating: Roll the dipped bar in crushed almonds or toasted coconut before chocolate sets.
- Kiddie fun: Give your kids small bowls of sprinkles and let them dip their own.
I used to swirl a peppermint candy into a chocolate-coated bar at Christmas minty, festive, and warm in every bite.
Health Benefits & Nutritional Info
These homemade protein Dilly Bars are more than just a frozen treat, they’re a nourishing snack disguised as dessert. With every bite, you’re getting real protein, healthy fats, and a little joy that won’t throw off your day. I love that these feel like something indulgent, but they’re actually a smart way to refuel, especially after a busy afternoon or light workout.
Here’s a quick breakdown for 1 protein Dilly Bar (makes about 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per bar |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~185 kcal |
| Protein | 14–16g |
| Total Fat | ~10g |
| Saturated Fat | ~6g |
| Carbohydrates | ~9g |
| Sugar | ~5g (natural) |
| Fiber | ~2g |
| Sodium | ~120mg |
🧊 Note: The exact numbers may vary depending on your brand of protein powder and chocolate chips, but this gives you a solid estimate.
These bars deliver that creamy, nostalgic flavor like the ones from the ice cream truck but with added protein to keep your energy stable and cravings in check. That’s the kind of comfort food with purpose I’ll always stand behind.
Conclusion
Dilly bars remind me that even the smallest treats can become treasured family memories like my daughter’s first melt-in-your-mouth smile. I hope this homemade version offers you that same simple joy, wrapped in comfort and connection.
If this dilly bars inspired a warm memory or a happy moment in your day, I’d love to hear about it in the comments and make sure you Follow us on Facebook.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Dairy Queen call them Dilly Bars?
Dairy Queen trademarked the name “Dilly Bar” in 1955. It’s a playful twist “dilly” meaning delightful highlighting the charm of this simple custard bar with chocolate. The name stuck and has since become a nostalgic icon for many.
Are Dilly Bars healthy?
Typical dilly bars pack ~200–250 calories, 12 g of fat, and about 20 g sugar. While they’re still a treat, enjoyed mindfully and occasionally, they fit fine into a balanced lifestyle. In homemade versions, you control the ingredients making lighter substitutions if desired and more protein like my recipe.
Are dilly bars gluten-free?
Yes, standard Dairy Queen dilly bars contain no gluten. However, if served in cross-contaminated environments (like ice cream shops), always check. My homemade recipe is naturally gluten-free just verify chocolate coating if store-bought.
Healthy Dilly Bars
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 6–8 Bars 1x
Description
These Protein Dilly Bars are a nostalgic childhood treat with a modern, nourishing twist. Creamy, chocolate-dipped, and packed with protein from Greek yogurt and protein powder, they’re freezer-friendly and perfect for warm afternoons or post-workout indulgence.
Ingredients
1 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or full-fat)
1 scoop vanilla protein powder
2 tbsp maple syrup (or honey)
½ tsp vanilla extract
1½ cups dark chocolate chips
2 tsp coconut oil
Sea salt for garnish (optional)
6 wooden popsicle sticks
The protein powder is optional, you can add it to get more protein in your dilly bar recipe.
Instructions
In a medium bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, protein powder, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Spoon the mixture into silicone muffin molds or parchment-lined shapes.
Insert popsicle sticks and freeze 2–3 hours.
Melt the chocolate chips with coconut oil until smooth.
Dip frozen yogurt shapes into chocolate, sprinkle sea salt if using.
Freeze again until set and enjoy.
Notes
Chocolate Coating Tip: If the chocolate coating seems too thick, stir in 1 tsp of coconut oil to thin it slightly and give that perfect glossy shell.
Mold Options: Silicone molds make removal easier, but you can also use a muffin tin lined with parchment or silicone liners.
Kid-Friendly Idea: Skip the stick and make mini bites in ice cube trays for little hands. My daughter loves these after school!
Storage: Keep stored in a sealed container in the freezer. Let them sit at room temp for 3–5 minutes before enjoying for a softer bite.
Make-Ahead Tip: These bars keep beautifully in the freezer for up to 1 month, so go ahead and double the batch if you’re anything like me and crave them on the daily!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2–3 hours (to fully set in the freezer)
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Bar
- Calories: ~185 kcal
- Sugar: ~5g (natural)
- Sodium: ~120mg
- Fat: ~10g
- Saturated Fat: ~6g
- Carbohydrates: ~9g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Protein: 14–16g
