15 Decadent High-Protein Bread Pudding Recipes to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Who said bread pudding can't be nutritious? These high-protein recipes give a delicious spin to a classic dessert, allowing you to satisfy your sweet cravings without the guilt. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, each recipe combines wholesome ingredients and protein power to create comforting, flavorful bites that keep you feeling great. Get ready to dig in!

Indulgent Chocolate Protein Bread Pudding

This chocolate protein bread pudding is a delightful treat that satisfies your sweet cravings without the guilt. Imagine a warm, gooey dessert filled with chunks of rich chocolate and topped with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. The fresh mint leaves add a pop of color and a refreshing touch, making it not just tasty but also visually appealing.

Using protein-rich ingredients, this recipe ensures you get a boost while enjoying a classic dessert. It’s perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack any time of the day. The combination of chocolate and soft bread creates a comforting texture that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cubed bread (preferably stale)
• 2 cups milk (or almond milk)
• 1/2 cup protein powder (chocolate flavor)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, protein powder, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Add the cubed bread to the mixture, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
4. Fold in the chocolate chips and nuts if using.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the pudding is set.
7. Let it cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh mint leaves.

Cinnamon Roll High-Protein Bread Pudding

Cinnamon Roll High-Protein Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. Imagine a warm, gooey bread pudding that captures the flavors of cinnamon rolls. This dish is perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings while packing in some extra protein.

The image shows a slice of this delicious bread pudding topped with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The rich, golden-brown crust contrasts beautifully with the smooth, velvety ice cream, creating a tempting treat. The warm, spiced aroma wafts through the air, making it hard to resist a second helping!

To make this tasty dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 4 cups cubed whole grain bread
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 cup raisins or chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, Greek yogurt, eggs, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
3. Add the cubed bread to the mixture, stirring gently to coat all pieces. If using, fold in the raisins or pecans.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let it cool slightly before serving. Top with ice cream or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness!

Berry Bliss Protein Bread Pudding

Berry Bliss Protein Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. This version is packed with protein and bursting with fresh berries, making it a guilt-free treat. The vibrant colors of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries create an inviting presentation, perfect for any occasion.

To make this delicious pudding, you’ll need some simple ingredients. Start with day-old bread, which soaks up the custard beautifully. The combination of eggs, milk, and your choice of protein powder gives it a nutritious boost. Layer in those juicy berries for a burst of flavor in every bite.

When baked, the pudding becomes warm and comforting, with a slightly crispy top and a soft, creamy center. Serve it warm, perhaps with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness. This dessert is not just satisfying; it’s also a great way to enjoy your protein intake.

Ingredients

• 4 cups day-old bread, cubed
• 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 2 cups milk (or a milk alternative)
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, protein powder, honey, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
3. Add the cubed bread to the mixture, stirring gently to coat. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to soak up the custard.
4. Fold in the mixed berries, being careful not to crush them.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the pudding is set.
7. Allow it to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!

Banana Nut High-Protein Bread Pudding

Banana Nut High-Protein Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. This dish combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunch of walnuts, creating a comforting and satisfying treat. The warm, soft bread pudding is topped with creamy vanilla ice cream, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.

To make this recipe, you'll need some basic ingredients. Start with stale bread, which is essential for that perfect pudding texture. Ripe bananas add natural sweetness, while walnuts provide a nice crunch. The high-protein element comes from using eggs and milk, making this dessert not only delicious but also a bit healthier.

Here's how to whip up this tasty dish:

Ingredients

• 4 cups stale bread, cubed
• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 2 cups milk (or a milk alternative)
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• 1/4 cup brown sugar or sweetener of choice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Optional: additional banana slices and nuts for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Bread: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread and chopped nuts. Set aside.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, milk, eggs, protein powder, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
4. Combine: Pour the wet mixture over the bread and nuts, gently folding to ensure all the bread is soaked.
5. Bake: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is golden.
6. Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Optionally, top with additional banana slices and nuts.

Maple Pecan High-Protein Bread Pudding

This Maple Pecan High-Protein Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. The image captures a warm, golden-brown bread pudding topped with crunchy pecans, all drizzled with rich maple syrup. It’s the perfect comfort food that satisfies your sweet tooth while packing in protein.

To make this dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. The combination of bread, eggs, and milk creates a custardy base, while the maple syrup and pecans add a sweet and nutty flavor. This recipe is not only delicious but also a great way to use up leftover bread.

As you prepare this dish, the aroma of maple and toasted pecans will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist digging in right away. Serve it warm, and watch as everyone gathers around for a taste!

Ingredients

• 4 cups cubed whole grain bread
• 2 cups milk (or a milk alternative)
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add the cubed bread to the mixture, stirring until well coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to soak up the liquid.
4. Fold in the chopped pecans, then pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
6. Let it cool slightly, then drizzle with additional maple syrup before serving.

Peanut Butter Cup Protein Bread Pudding

If you’re craving something sweet yet protein-packed, this Peanut Butter Cup Protein Bread Pudding is the perfect treat. Imagine a warm, gooey dessert topped with rich chocolate and crunchy peanut butter cups. It’s a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth while sneaking in some extra protein.

This recipe is simple and fun to make. Start with your favorite bread, whether it’s whole grain or a sweet brioche. The bread soaks up the creamy mixture of eggs, milk, and peanut butter, creating a soft and custardy texture. The addition of chocolate sauce and mini peanut butter cups on top makes it irresistible!

Perfect for breakfast or dessert, this bread pudding is sure to impress. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 6 cups cubed bread (preferably stale or day-old)
• 1 cup milk or almond milk
• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 1/2 cup chocolate protein powder
• 1/2 cup sugar or sweetener of choice
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
• Chopped peanuts for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Prepare the Bread: Place the cubed bread in a large mixing bowl.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, peanut butter, protein powder, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
4. Combine: Pour the wet mixture over the bread cubes, stirring gently to ensure all the bread is coated. If using, fold in the chocolate chips.
5. Bake: Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the pudding is set.
6. Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving. Top with chopped peanuts or additional chocolate chips if desired.

Apple Cinnamon High-Protein Bread Pudding

Apple Cinnamon High-Protein Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. This dish combines the warm flavors of cinnamon and apples with a protein boost, making it a satisfying treat. The image showcases a beautifully baked pudding, topped with a crumbly, golden-brown topping that hints at the deliciousness inside. The apples peek through, glistening with a sweet syrup, inviting you to dig in.

This recipe is perfect for breakfast or dessert. It’s simple to make and can be enjoyed warm or cold. The protein-rich ingredients help keep you full, making it a great option for any time of day.

Ingredients

• 4 cups whole grain bread, cubed
• 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup apple sauce
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the almond milk, Greek yogurt, apple sauce, honey, eggs, cinnamon, and vanilla.
3. Add the cubed bread and diced apples to the mixture. Stir until the bread is well coated.
4. Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle chopped nuts on top if using.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
6. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or chilled!

Nutty Chocolate Chip Protein Bread Pudding

This Nutty Chocolate Chip Protein Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. It combines the rich flavors of chocolate and nuts, making it a perfect treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. The image showcases a warm, golden-brown pudding topped with chocolate chips and crunchy pecans, creating an inviting and mouthwatering appearance.

The pudding is not only delicious but also packed with protein, making it a great option for a post-workout snack or a satisfying dessert. The combination of textures—from the soft, fluffy bread to the crunchy nuts—offers a delightful eating experience.

To make this tasty dish, you’ll need some simple ingredients that you probably already have at home. Let’s get into the recipe!

Ingredients

• 4 cups day-old bread, cubed
• 2 cups milk (or a milk alternative)
• 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or chocolate)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, protein powder, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Add the cubed bread to the mixture, stirring gently to coat all the pieces. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to soak up the liquid.
4. Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped pecans.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle with caramel sauce if desired.

Lemon Blueberry High-Protein Bread Pudding

This Lemon Blueberry High-Protein Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. The vibrant colors of blueberries and the bright yellow of lemon create a feast for the eyes. Imagine a warm, comforting dish that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also packs a protein punch!

The combination of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries makes this pudding refreshing and perfect for any occasion. It's a great way to use up leftover bread while indulging in something sweet and nutritious.

Let’s get into the details of making this delicious treat!

Ingredients

• 4 cups cubed whole grain bread
• 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 cup fresh blueberries

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together almond milk, Greek yogurt, honey, eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
3. Add the cubed bread to the mixture, stirring gently to coat all pieces. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to soak up the liquid.
4. Fold in the fresh blueberries, being careful not to crush them.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and the pudding is set.
7. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or chilled!

Pumpkin Spice High-Protein Bread Pudding

Fall is the perfect time to enjoy warm, comforting desserts. Pumpkin spice high-protein bread pudding is a delightful twist on a classic dish. This recipe combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and spices with a protein boost, making it a satisfying treat.

The image captures a bowl of this delicious bread pudding, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. The warm orange tones of the pumpkin blend beautifully with the rustic setting, featuring pumpkins and autumn leaves in the background. It’s not just a feast for the taste buds but also a visual treat!

Let’s get into the ingredients and steps to create this delightful dessert.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cubed whole grain bread
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, almond milk, protein powder, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
3. Add the cubed bread to the mixture, stirring gently to coat all the pieces. If using, fold in the chopped nuts.
4. Pour the bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the pudding is set.
6. Let it cool slightly before serving. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

Caramel Apple Protein Bread Pudding

Caramel Apple Protein Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. This dish combines the warmth of baked bread with the sweetness of caramel and the tartness of apples. The golden-brown crust and gooey caramel sauce create a comforting treat that's perfect for any occasion.

Imagine digging into a warm serving, where each bite offers a mix of soft bread and tender apple slices, all drizzled with rich caramel. This recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also packs a protein punch, making it a great option for a post-workout treat or a cozy dessert.

Let’s get into the ingredients and steps to whip up this delicious dish!

Ingredients

• 4 cups stale bread, cubed
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 medium apples, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the milk, Greek yogurt, protein powder, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add the cubed bread to the mixture and gently fold until all pieces are coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to soak up the liquid.
4. Fold in the sliced apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
5. Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the pudding is set.
7. Let it cool slightly before serving. Drizzle more caramel sauce on top if desired.

S'Mores High-Protein Bread Pudding

Imagine a warm, gooey dessert that combines the classic flavors of s'mores with the comforting texture of bread pudding. This S'Mores High-Protein Bread Pudding is a delightful twist that satisfies your sweet tooth while packing a protein punch. The image showcases a deliciously layered dish topped with toasted marshmallows and chocolate, all nestled in a cozy setting by a campfire. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something sweet and nostalgic.

This recipe is simple and fun to make. You’ll use ingredients like whole grain bread, chocolate chips, and marshmallows to create a dessert that feels indulgent but is also a bit healthier. The protein boost comes from adding eggs and Greek yogurt, making it a great option for a post-workout treat or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

• 4 cups whole grain bread, cubed
• 2 cups milk (or almond milk)
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, Greek yogurt, eggs, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Add the cubed bread to the mixture, stirring gently to coat. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to soak up the liquid.
4. Fold in the chocolate chips and half of the mini marshmallows.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the crushed graham crackers and remaining marshmallows on top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden and the pudding is set.
7. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm for the best experience!

Raspberry Almond High-Protein Bread Pudding

This Raspberry Almond High-Protein Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. The vibrant raspberries add a burst of flavor, while the almonds provide a satisfying crunch. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein, making it a great option for a sweet treat that won't derail your healthy eating goals.

The combination of soft bread soaked in a creamy mixture, topped with fresh raspberries and sliced almonds, creates a beautiful presentation. The mint leaves add a pop of color and freshness, making this pudding perfect for any occasion.

Ready to whip up this tasty dessert? Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 4 cups cubed bread (preferably whole grain)
• 2 cups almond milk
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with a bit of oil or cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together almond milk, Greek yogurt, honey, eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
3. Add the cubed bread to the mixture, making sure all pieces are well coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to soak up the liquid.
4. Gently fold in the raspberries and half of the sliced almonds.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining almonds on top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
7. Let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh raspberries and mint leaves for an extra touch.

Almond Joy Protein Bread Pudding

This Almond Joy Protein Bread Pudding is a delightful treat that combines the flavors of chocolate, coconut, and almonds. The image shows a beautifully baked bread pudding topped with white chocolate, almonds, and chocolate-covered treats, making it look irresistible. It's a perfect dessert for anyone looking to satisfy their sweet tooth while still enjoying a protein-packed dish.

The pudding is not only delicious but also easy to make. You can whip it up for a special occasion or just to enjoy a cozy night in. The combination of ingredients gives it a rich flavor that will remind you of the classic Almond Joy candy bar.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cubed whole grain bread
• 2 cups almond milk
• 1/2 cup protein powder (chocolate or vanilla)
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup chopped almonds
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together almond milk, protein powder, maple syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
3. Add the cubed bread to the mixture and gently fold in the shredded coconut, chopped almonds, and chocolate chips. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to soak up the liquid.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, and feel free to top it with extra chocolate chips or a drizzle of almond butter!

Peach Cobbler High-Protein Bread Pudding

Peach Cobbler High-Protein Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. Imagine warm, fluffy bread pudding topped with juicy peaches and a scoop of creamy ice cream. It’s perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings while packing in some protein.

This recipe combines the comforting flavors of peach cobbler with the rich texture of bread pudding. The sweet peaches add a burst of flavor, while the bread absorbs all the delicious juices, creating a warm and inviting dish. It’s a great way to use up leftover bread and enjoy a guilt-free treat.

Let’s get into the ingredients and steps to whip up this tasty dessert!

Ingredients

• 4 cups cubed bread (preferably stale)
• 2 cups fresh peaches, sliced
• 2 cups milk (or a milk alternative)
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the dish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, Greek yogurt, honey, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
3. Add the cubed bread and sliced peaches to the mixture. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the bread is well-coated.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
6. Let it cool slightly before serving. Top with a scoop of ice cream if desired!