Looking for a healthier alternative to store-bought protein cookies and bars? Look no further than your own kitchen! These homemade vegan protein cookies are not only delicious but also packed with plant-based protein, making them a perfect guilt-free snack for any time of day. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch of these chewy, chocolatey delights that will satisfy your sweet tooth and fuel your body.
Why You’ll Love These Protein Cookies
As an artist who appreciates the craft of creating, I find joy in transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. These vegan protein cookies are a testament to that. Here’s why you’ll love them:
- Healthier Ingredients: Unlike many commercial protein cookies loaded with refined sugar and unhealthy fats, these cookies are made with wholesome ingredients like ripe bananas, peanut butter, oats, and pea protein powder.
- High in Protein: Each serving (two cookies) provides a whopping 17 grams of protein, making them an excellent choice for athletes, active individuals, or anyone looking to increase their protein intake.
- Delicious Flavor: Don’t let the word “healthy” fool you – these cookies are incredibly delicious! The combination of banana and cocoa creates a moist and flavorful base, while the peanut butter adds a satisfying richness.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these cookies in under an hour.
Healthy chocolate protein cookies stacked on parchment paper against a blue-gray background.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 very ripe bananas (the riper, the sweeter the cookies!)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar (or your preferred sweetener)
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (stir well before measuring)
- 3/4 cup pea protein powder (unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup mini vegan chocolate chips (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Protein Cookies
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Prepare Your Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Mash the bananas in a mixing bowl.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: To the mashed bananas, add vanilla extract, coconut sugar, and peanut butter. Whisk until well combined.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the pea protein powder, cocoa powder, baking powder, and rolled oats.
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Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a thick dough forms. Fold in the chocolate chips, if using.
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Shape and Bake: Scoop out approximately 3 tablespoons of dough per cookie and shape them into balls. Gently flatten each ball with a fork, creating a criss-cross pattern on top.
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- Bake to Perfection: Bake the cookies for 12-14 minutes, or until the bottoms turn golden brown. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Tips and Variations
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Protein Powder Substitution: “When working with protein powders, it’s essential to adjust sweetness levels accordingly,” advises pastry chef and food blogger, Sarah Jones. “If using a sweetened protein powder, reduce the added sugar and consider adding a touch more oats or flour if the dough seems too wet.”
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Nut Butter Alternatives: For a nut-free version, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini.
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Flavor Twists: Get creative with mix-ins! Add dried cranberries, chopped nuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet and savory twist.
Storing Your Protein Cookies
To enjoy these treats throughout the week, store your protein cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Unleash Your Inner Baker!
These vegan protein cookies are a testament to the fact that healthy can be delicious! I encourage you to gather your ingredients, put on your creative hat, and bake up a batch of these satisfying treats. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag #RobertKlineArt – I’d love to see your culinary masterpieces!
Ready to explore more handcrafted goodness? Head over to our website for a curated selection of unique and thoughtful gifts.