Protein Brownies: The Ultimate Guilt-Free Treat You’ll Love!
Protein brownies are a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt! Imagine rich, fudgy squares that melt in your mouth, packed with wholesome ingredients like almond flour and creamy nut butter. These brownies are sweetened naturally with ripe bananas and a touch of maple syrup, making them a perfect treat for any time of day. With a boost of protein from your favorite powder, they’re not just delicious—they’re a smart choice for a post-workout snack or a midday pick-me-up. Indulge in these heavenly bites and feel great about it!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Indulge in a delicious treat without the guilt!
- Packed with protein to fuel your day.
- Simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings while staying healthy.
- Easy to make and customize to your taste!
protein brownies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up while you prepare the batter.
- Collect all the ingredients listed above.
- In a large bowl, combine almond flour, cocoa powder, protein powder, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
- In another bowl, whisk together honey (or maple syrup), applesauce, and eggs until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; don’t overmix!
- Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them!
- Once baked, let the brownies cool in the dish for about 10 minutes. Then, cut into squares.
- Dig in and enjoy your delicious, guilt-free protein brownies! Share with friends or keep them all to yourself!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Dessert |
| Cuisine: | American |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 25 minutes |
| Total Time: | 40 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-free, High-protein |
| Serves: | 12 brownies |
| Best Served: | Warm or chilled |
Ingredients
- Black beans – a great source of fiber and protein, making your brownies moist.
- Almond butter – adds healthy fats and a rich flavor; opt for unsweetened for a healthier choice.
- Cocoa powder – gives that delicious chocolatey taste; choose unsweetened for a guilt-free treat.
- Maple syrup – a natural sweetener that keeps your brownies moist and adds a hint of caramel flavor.
- Vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor; use pure vanilla for the best taste.
- Protein powder – boosts the protein content; pick your favorite flavor to complement the brownies.
- Baking powder – helps the brownies rise and become fluffy.
- Salt – balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to whip up some delicious protein brownies that will satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up while you prepare the batter.
Step 2: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect 1 cup of almond flour, 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, 1/2 cup of protein powder, 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup, 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 2 eggs, and a pinch of salt.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine almond flour, cocoa powder, protein powder, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together honey (or maple syrup), applesauce, and eggs until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; don’t overmix!
Step 6: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 7: Pour and Spread
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
Step 8: Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them!
Step 9: Cool and Cut
Once baked, let the brownies cool in the dish for about 10 minutes. Then, cut into squares.
Step 10: Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your delicious, guilt-free protein brownies! Share with friends or keep them all to yourself!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
•Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and moisture.
•Experiment with different protein powders to find your favorite flavor.
•Add a pinch of salt to enhance the chocolate taste.
•Let the brownies cool completely before cutting for cleaner edges.
•Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh and fudgy.
How to Serve
Enjoy your protein brownies in a variety of delightful ways!
- Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.
- Drizzle with almond butter or peanut butter for extra flavor.
- Serve warm with a scoop of your favorite dairy-free ice cream.
- Pair with fresh berries for a refreshing touch.
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts for added crunch.
- Enjoy with a cup of herbal tea for a cozy treat.
- Cut into bite-sized pieces for a perfect snack on-the-go.
- Layer with banana slices for a delicious twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Proper storage ensures your protein brownies stay fresh and delicious!
Storing Leftovers
Follow these steps to keep your brownies tasty:
- Allow brownies to cool completely.
- Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped brownies in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Freezing
Freeze your brownies for longer storage:
- Cool brownies completely before freezing.
- Cut into individual portions for easy access.
- Wrap each piece in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to three months.
Reheating
Enjoy your brownies warm with these tips:
- Remove brownies from the fridge or freezer.
- If frozen, let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
- For a crispier texture, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
FAQs
What can I substitute for eggs in protein brownies?
You can use unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas as great egg substitutes. They add moisture and help bind the ingredients together while keeping the brownies deliciously soft.
Can I use a different type of protein powder?
Absolutely! You can use whey, casein, or plant-based protein powders. Just keep in mind that different powders may slightly alter the texture and flavor, so choose one that you enjoy.
How can I make my protein brownies sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter brownie, consider adding a bit of honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute like stevia. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste!
Can I add mix-ins to my protein brownies?
Definitely! Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture. Just be mindful of the added calories if you’re watching your intake.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it—protein brownies that are not just delicious but also guilt-free! Picture yourself savoring these fudgy delights, knowing you’re treating yourself right. It’s a simple recipe that brings joy and satisfaction with every bite. Grab your ingredients, whip up a batch, and share them with friends or keep them all to yourself. Either way, you’re in for a delightful treat!
Hungry for more delicious creations? Browse our site for more recipes and endless inspiration to spark your next culinary adventure!
