high protein desserts

Delicious chewy protein chocolate chip cookies for a healthy snack

Chewy Protein Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chewy Protein Chocolate Chip Cookies

These chewy protein chocolate chip cookies strike the perfect balance between indulgence and fuel. Soft and slightly gooey in the center, they’re packed with protein — making them a great post-workout treat or afternoon pick-me-up. Whether you’re adapting a classic cookie recipe to meet your macros or simply want a heartier snack, this version delivers texture, flavor, and sustained energy.

For more ideas on how to boost protein across your day, check out this helpful guide: increase your protein intake.

Why these cookies work

  • Protein powder adds structure and extra protein without overpowering the flavor.
  • A mix of oats and flour keeps them tender and chewy.
  • Minimal added sugar paired with dark chocolate chips gives satisfying sweetness and richness.

Ingredients (makes ~18 cookies)

  • 1 cup rolled oats (quick oats work fine)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or 1:1 gluten-free blend)
  • 1/2 cup vanilla or unflavored whey (or plant-based) protein powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional — reduce for less sweet)
  • 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk (for extra chew)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt) — adds moisture and chewiness
  • 3/4 cup chocolate chips (dark or semi-sweet)
  • Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts, 1 tablespoon chia seeds, or 1 tablespoon nut butter

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, flour, protein powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with brown and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). Beat in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla until combined.
  4. Mix in Greek yogurt until smooth. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined.
  5. Fold in chocolate chips and any optional add-ins. If the dough feels too dry, add a teaspoon or two of milk; if too wet, add a tablespoon of flour or oats.
  6. Scoop dough by rounded tablespoons onto prepared baking sheets, leaving 2 inches between cookies. For extra gooey centers, press a few extra chocolate chips on top of each cookie.
  7. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are set but centers still look slightly underbaked. Cookies will continue to firm as they cool.
  8. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips, Variations, and Serving Ideas

  • For a lower-carb option, replace 1/2 cup of flour with almond flour and reduce oats slightly.
  • Swap the chocolate chips for chopped dark chocolate bars for larger molten pockets.
  • Add a scoop of peanut butter (about 2–3 tablespoons) to the wet ingredients for extra flavor and healthy fats.
  • If you want to pair these cookies with a drink that complements their protein boost, experiment with these high-protein smoothie recipes for a balanced snack or post-workout combo.
  • To keep cookies soft for days, store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread; the moisture exchange helps maintain chewiness.

Nutrition (approximate per cookie)

  • Calories: ~150–180
  • Protein: 6–9 g (varies with protein powder and yogurt used)
  • Fat: 7–9 g
  • Carbs: 15–18 g

Adjust ingredient quantities or swap in higher-protein powders to meet your specific macro goals.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a convenient store-bought complement or inspiration for grab-and-go snacks that pair well with homemade treats, consider the FiberOne Oats & Chocolate Chewy Bars as an option to keep on hand. They offer an oat-forward chocolate flavor that echoes the cookie vibe while giving quick portable energy.

Chewy Protein Chocolate Chip Cookies Read More »

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Delicious protein hot chocolate in a mug topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.

Protein Hot Chocolate Recipe

Protein Hot Chocolate Recipe

Introduction
Warm, rich hot chocolate can be both comforting and nourishing when you add a protein boost. This recipe transforms classic cocoa into a post-workout treat or a satisfying evening drink that helps curb late-night cravings without derailing your macros. If you enjoy experimenting with high-protein drinks, you might also like this collection of high-protein smoothie recipes for more ideas.

Why add protein?

  • Keeps you full longer and helps muscle recovery after exercise.
  • Balances the blood sugar spike from sugar and simple carbs.
  • Lets you enjoy dessert-like flavors while supporting nutrition goals.

Ingredients (serves 1)

  • 1 cup (240 ml) milk of choice (dairy, almond, oat, or soy)
  • 1 scoop chocolate protein powder (whey, casein, or plant-based; ~20–25 g protein)
  • 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1–2 tsp sweetener to taste (honey, maple syrup, stevia, or monk fruit)
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • Optional: 1 tsp coconut oil or 1 tbsp nut butter for extra creaminess

Equipment

  • Small saucepan
  • Whisk or milk frother
  • Mug

Method

  1. Warm the milk: Pour the milk into a small saucepan and heat over medium-low until steaming but not boiling (about 3–4 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent a skin forming.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients: While the milk warms, combine the cocoa powder, protein powder, sweetener, and salt in a small bowl. This prevents clumping.
  3. Create a paste: Add about 2 tablespoons of the warmed milk to the dry mix and whisk into a smooth paste. This step helps the cocoa and protein dissolve evenly.
  4. Combine and heat: Pour the paste back into the saucepan with the remaining milk. Whisk continuously over low heat until fully combined and warmed through (do not boil — high heat can denature some proteins and make the texture gritty).
  5. Add flavor: Stir in vanilla extract and optional coconut oil or nut butter for a silkier mouthfeel. Taste and adjust sweetener.
  6. Serve: Pour into a mug. Optional toppings: a sprinkle of cocoa, a few dark chocolate shavings, or a dollop of coconut whipped cream.

Quick protein hack
If your protein powder tends to clump when heated, dissolve it first in a small amount of cold water or milk, then add it to the warm milk. Alternatively, use a handheld frother to break up any lumps immediately after adding the powder.

Variations and add-ins

  • Mocha: Stir in 1 shot of espresso or 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee for a morning pick-me-up.
  • Spiced: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne for warmth and complexity.
  • Vegan boost: Use a plant-based protein powder and soy or oat milk; add a little banana or mashed silken tofu for extra creaminess.
  • Dessert twist: For a seasonal switch, try blending in pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spices — similar flavors appear in this protein pumpkin pie recipe if you want a bakeable option.

Nutrition (approximate, per serving)

  • Calories: 180–300 (depends on milk and add-ins)
  • Protein: 20–30 g (depends on protein powder)
  • Fat: 3–12 g (depends on milk and optional fat additions)
  • Sugar: 5–15 g (depends on sweetener and milk)

Tips for best texture

  • Use a creamy base (whole milk, soy milk, or oat milk) for a satisfyingly rich texture.
  • Avoid overheating: keep the drink below simmer to preserve smoothness.
  • If you prefer a frothier top, froth a little extra milk and spoon it on.

When to enjoy

  • Post-workout: within an hour after resistance training to support recovery.
  • Evening treat: choose lower-caffeine variations and a milk with tryptophan for a sleep-friendly option.
  • Snack replacement: a filling, protein-forward mug can replace a higher-calorie snack.

Conclusion

For a tested and simple version you can make tonight, check out this complete Protein Hot Chocolate Recipe – Healthful Blondie. It offers straightforward measurements and swaps to tailor the drink to your taste.

Protein Hot Chocolate Recipe Read More »

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