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These protein cookies are my secret weapon for satisfying a cookie craving while fueling up with wholesome ingredients They come together in minutes with only four basic pantry items and no flour or refined sugar needed The result is a thick chewy treat that offers more than twenty grams of protein per serving which makes them perfect after the gym or as a smart afternoon pick me up
I first made these when I wanted a quick snack for my mornings and now my friends ask me to bring them to our weekend walks on the trail
Ingredients
- Peanut butter: gives richness and binds everything together Use natural peanut butter for pure flavor and check for minimal added oils
- Brown sugar substitute: sweetens the cookies while keeping carbs low Look for a golden monk fruit or stevia blend that bakes well without aftertaste
- Large egg: provides structure and helps the cookies hold shape If you want these egg free look for the note about eggless swaps
- Vanilla protein powder: is the star ingredient for boosting protein content Choose a high quality powder that dissolves smoothly and tastes good on its own
- Chocolate chips: optional but add pops of sweetness and classic cookie appeal Use a dark chocolate chip for less sugar and a deeper flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep Your Baking Sheet:
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper so the cookies will not stick This also makes cleanup easy
- Mix the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl combine peanut butter brown sugar substitute egg and protein powder Stir thoroughly until a thick dough forms that looks even and smooth
- Shape the Cookies:
- Use your hands to scoop out twelve pieces of dough Roll each into a ball and place onto the tray Press each gently with your palm to flatten into a cookie shape
- Bake and Cool:
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180C or 350F for twelve to fourteen minutes Watch for the edges to get golden while the centers stay soft Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet which helps them firm up and makes them easy to pick up
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Peanut butter is my personal favorite here because it makes every bite so creamy and satisfying I remember the first batch disappearing in minutes while my family sat around with coffee and swapped stories about our week
Storage Tips
After cooling completely store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days For longer freshness tuck them into the fridge where they will stay soft for up to a week You can also freeze them layered with parchment in a freezer bag for one month just thaw at room temperature when ready to snack
Ingredient Substitutions
For nut allergies swap in sunflower seed butter or a thick tahini Instead of brown sugar substitute try coconut sugar or regular brown sugar if carbs are not a concern Any egg replacer can work instead of the large egg I have had great results with a flax egg for a plant based option
Serving Suggestions
These cookies make a high protein grab and go breakfast alongside coffee or yogurt I like packing a couple for my afternoon walks or crumbling one over a bowl of berries for a simple dessert Warm them briefly in the microwave so the chocolate chips get melty and gooey
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Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make these without eggs?
Yes, a flaxseed or chia egg can be used to create an eggless version with a similar texture and taste.
- → What protein powder works best?
Vanilla-flavored plant-based or whey protein powders both blend well, but the flavor profile may vary slightly.
- → Do I need to chill the dough?
No chilling is required—simply mix the ingredients, portion, and bake immediately for best results.
- → Are the cookies suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, as there is no flour used, these cookies are naturally gluten-free when using gluten-free protein powder.
- → Can I add mix-ins?
Chocolate chips are a popular option, but you can also try nuts, seeds, or dried fruit to suit your taste.