If you’re looking for a guilt-free treat that satisfies your sweet tooth while packing a protein punch, look no further than these delightful protein cookies! Inspired by birthday cake flavors, these cookies combine the richness of vanilla with colorful sprinkles for a festive touch. Perfect for a post-workout snack or a healthier dessert option, these protein cookies are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Each bite is soft, chewy, and loaded with nutrients, making them an ideal choice for anyone aiming to balance taste and health.
You’ll Love This: Protein Cookies
These protein cookies are not just delicious; they are also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re preparing for a birthday celebration, a snack for your kids, or just want a healthier dessert option, these cookies check all the boxes. With added protein to keep you full and satisfied, they make an excellent addition to any fitness-focused diet. Plus, you can easily customize them to fit your dietary preferences, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a treat without the guilt!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these tasty protein cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- ½ cup nut butter (such as almond or peanut butter)
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ cup rainbow sprinkles (optional for that birthday cake feel)
- Dark chocolate chips or nuts (optional, for added texture)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious protein cookies:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, rolled oats, protein powder, baking powder, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed. - Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the nut butter, honey (or maple syrup), egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. - Combine Mixtures:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring until well combined. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. If it’s too dry, add a splash of milk or water. - Add Fun Ingredients:
Gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles and any optional chocolate chips or nuts, mixing until evenly distributed throughout the dough. - Scoop the Dough:
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave space between each cookie, as they will spread slightly while baking. - Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. - Cool:
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
These protein cookies are delicious on their own but can also be paired with a variety of accompaniments for added enjoyment. Serve them warm with a glass of milk or your favorite plant-based alternative for a wholesome snack. For a fun twist, sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies for a protein-packed ice cream sandwich. Additionally, you can sprinkle extra chocolate chips or nuts on top before baking for an extra decadent touch.
MORE RECIPES: Oreo Ice Cream Recipe & Moist Chocolate Carrot Cake
How to Store: Protein Cookies
To keep your protein cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer shelf life, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Additional Tips: Protein Cookies
- Nut Butter Options: If you prefer a nut-free option, try using sun butter or soy nut butter.
- Sugar Substitutes: For a lower sugar option, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as baking times may vary based on your oven and the size of your cookies. The key is to ensure they are just golden around the edges.
- Customization: Feel free to customize your protein cookies with different mix-ins like dried fruit, seeds, or different flavored protein powders to suit your taste.
Protein Cookies
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- parchment paper
- Whisk
- spatula
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup vanilla protein powder
- ½ cup nut butter
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ cup rainbow sprinkles
- Optional: dark chocolate chips or nuts
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet.
- Mix dry ingredients in one bowl.
- Combine wet ingredients in another bowl.
- Mix dry and wet ingredients until combined.
- Add sprinkles and optional mix-ins.
- Scoop dough onto the baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes.
- Cool on a wire rack.