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30 Minutes or Less

4-Ingredient Protein Brownies (gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free!)

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overhead image of 4 ingredient protein brownies with mini chocolate chips on top.

It’s no secret I love a protein-packed sweet treat! My favorites lately have been my single serve protein cookie skillet and 3-ingredient protein cookies – but recently, I’ve had a real craving for brownies. But most nights, I don’t have the time (or let’s face it, the energy) to whip up a long and complicated brownie recipe. So that’s exactly why I created this 4-ingredient protein brownies recipe! They’re rich, fudgy, just as delicious as regular brownies, but packed with protein, and made with just 4 simple ingredients. Make a batch today and enjoy a quick protein-packed sweet treat all week long!

Why You’ll Love These Protein Brownies

  • 10 grams of protein per brownie!
  • Made with just 4 simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
  • Gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and added sugar-free.
  • Quick and super easy to make!
  • Soft, fudgy, and chocolatey – like classic brownies, but healthier.

These brownies are perfect for a post-workout snack, dessert, or anytime treat!

the inside of a fudgy protein brownie.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much protein does each brownie have?

Each brownie contains 10 grams of protein, depending on your protein powder brand and portion size.

How do I store these protein brownies?

These 4-ingredient protein brownies can be stored in an airtight container. At room temperature, they’ll stay fresh for 1–2 days. In the refrigerator, they last up to 5 days, and for longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months – just thaw or warm slightly before eating.

What kind of protein powder did you use?

I used Aloha plant-based chocolate protein powder, but any chocolate protein powder works! Whey, vegan, or collagen-based protein powders all work well in this recipe.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • Nut-free: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
  • Banana-free: Use unsweetened applesauce or pumpkin puree for a banana-free option.
  • Extra chocolatey: Fold in a few chocolate chips.
  • Lower sugar: Use unsweetened cocoa powder only and skip the chocolate chips on top!
overhead image of 4 ingredient protein brownies with mini chocolate chips on top.
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4-Ingredient Protein Brownies

These 4-ingredient protein brownies are fudgy, chocolatey, and packed with 10 grams of protein per serving! They’re gluten-free, dairy-free, added sugar-free, and super easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. Perfect for a healthy dessert or post-workout snack!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Equipment

  • 1 medium bowl
  • 1 9×4-inch loaf pan

Ingredients

  • 3 overripe bananas about 1 1/2 cups when mashed
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter or any nut/seed butter
  • 1/4 cup chocolate protein powder
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×4-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, then grease the inside of the pan with oil or butter.
  • Mash the banana in a large bowl until mostly smooth, then add in the peanut butter, chocolate protein powder, and cocoa powder. Mix everything together until fully combined.
  • Transfer the brownie batter to your prepared baking pan and top it with chocolate chips (if using), then bake for 18-20 minutes or until the brownies are just set in the middle.
  • Remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool completely before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 175kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 8g | Fiber: 3.5g | Sugar: 9g
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30 Minutes or Less

Healthy Milkshake (no banana!)

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healthy milkshake in a glass with whipped cream and a strawberry on top.

This healthy milkshake recipe has permanently cemented my spot as best wife ever. My husband is a huge ice cream guy, but he’ll admit – too much ice cream hurts his stomach. I often make him my no-churn vegan vanilla ice cream, and sometimes even my 2-ingredient healthy pineapple ice cream, but those take a bit more time. So this healthy milkshake is basically his way of enjoying an ice cream treat without any ice cream and in a matter of minutes! Just ice, milk (I use almond milk to keep it dairy-free), cocoa powder, and maple syrup is all you’ll need for this frosty treat. It’s even totally banana-free, because while I love banana, one of the most frequent comments on any banana-forward recipe I post is “I don’t like banana” or “what can I use instead of banana?” So, here ya have it – a healthy creamy and perfectly sweet chocolate milkshake with NO banana!

healthy milkshake in a glass with whipped cream on top.

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Milkshake

  • Only 4 simple ingredients, no unecessary additives.
  • Dairy‑free and naturally sweet, no banana – yet indulgently chocolatey!
  • Low‑calorie & flexible – customizable for keto, vegan, or paleo diets.

What Makes This Recipe Healthy

  • Made with unsweetened almond milk, reducing calories and sugar vs. regular milk.
  • Unsweetened cocoa delivers rich flavor plus antioxidants without extra fat .
  • Optional sweeteners let you control sweetness and caloric intake – use maple syrup, honey, stevia, or allulose .

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this sugar‑free?
Yes! Swap maple syrup for stevia, monk fruit, or allulose for a keto‑friendly version (around 100–150 cal).

What other sweeteners work besides maple syrup?
Honey, agave, dates, or even unsweetened applesauce can work – just adjust the quantity to your taste!

Can I add frozen banana?
Absolutely! Adding banana creates a thicker, fruitier smoothie; leave it out if you want a pure chocolate flavor.

healthy milkshake in a glass with whipped cream and a strawberry on top.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Start with 2 Tbsp maple syrup, then adjust after tasting.
  • Add more ice if you prefer a frosty shake, or 1/2 a frozen banana for a creamier milkshake.
  • Freeze leftover milkshake in ice cube trays for future shakes!

Flavor Variations

  • Vanilla Milkshake: Omit cocoa powder. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Optional: add 1–2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt or coconut cream for extra richness.
  • Strawberry Milkshake: Omit cocoa powder. Add ½ cup frozen strawberries before blending. Optional: a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
  • Mint Chocolate Milkshake: add a few drops of peppermint extract and top with a fresh mint leaf.
  • Peanut Butter Swirl Milkshake: blend in 1 Tbsp natural nut butter for a peanut butter-chocolate twist.
  • Mocha Milkshake: replace half of the almond milk with black coffee or espresso for a caffeine kick!
healthy milkshake in a glass with whipped cream and a strawberry on top.
5 from 3 votes

4-Ingredient Healthy Milkshake (no banana!)

This healthy milkshake recipe is creamy, dairy-free, and made with just 4 simple ingredients – no banana or ice cream required! Choose from chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry for a naturally sweetened treat you can blend in under 2 minutes. It’s the perfect quick and refreshing dessert or snack that’s vegan, gluten-free, and totally customizable!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 serving

Equipment

  • 1 blender

Ingredients

  • 1 cup ice cubes
  • 1/2 cup milk I used unsweetened almond milk
  • 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth, then pour into a glass and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1milkshake | Calories: 90kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 2.5g | Fat: 2.8g | Sugar: 12g
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30 Minutes or Less

3-Ingredient Healthy Chocolate Mousse

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close up image of 3 ingredient healthy chocolate mousse in a ramekin with a spoon.

I joke that my husband’s favorite recipes are the ones you can eat without teeth. He’s obsessed with my high-protein chia seed pudding, tofu chocolate mousse, and ultra-soft 3-ingredient brownies. Now we have one more recipe to add to that list – this 3-ingredient healthy chocolate mousse! It’s rich and chocolatey, yet airy, healthy, and impressively low in sugar. Also… you can totally eat this without teeth. HA!

Why You’ll LOVE This Healthy Chocolate Mousse

This rich and creamy chocolate mousse is a dream come true for chocolate lovers seeking a healthier indulgence. Made with just three simple ingredients – unsweetened coconut cream, melted chocolate chips, and cocoa powder—it’s a decadent dessert that’s both satisfying and guilt-free. Whether you’re vegan, dairy-free, or simply looking for a low-sugar treat, this mousse fits the bill perfectly!

3 ingredient healthy chocolate mousse in a ramekin with a strawberry on top.

What Makes This Recipe Healthy

  • Dairy-Free & Vegan: Utilizes coconut cream instead of dairy, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
  • Low Sugar: Sweetened naturally with chocolate chips and cocoa powder, eliminating the need for added sugars.
  • Gluten-Free: Contains no gluten-containing ingredients, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Simple Ingredients: Only three main ingredients are needed, making this recipe straightforward and accessible.
overhead image of 3 ingredient healthy chocolate mousse in a ramekin with a spoon.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftover mousse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the mousse in individual portions. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Note that the texture may change slightly upon freezing and thawing.
close up image of 3 ingredient healthy chocolate mousse in a ramekin with a spoon.
No ratings yet

3-Ingredient Healthy Chocolate Mousse

This rich and creamy 3-ingredient healthy chocolate mousse is the ultimate easy dessert you’ll want on repeat. Made with coconut cream, cocoa powder, and melted chocolate chips, it’s naturally vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free. Perfect for a quick treat, this mousse is indulgent, wholesome, and ready in minutes!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 3 servings

Equipment

  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 hand or stand mixer

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsweetened coconut cream (the thick white part at the topof a can of full-fat coconut milk)
  • 1/4 cup chocolate chips melted
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder

For the strawberry topping:

  • 1 cup fresh strawberries stems removed

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to a large bowl and beat with the Zwilling XTEND Cordless Hand Mixer until smooth and creamy.
  • Transfer the mousse into individual bowls or jars, then cover and chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours or until the mousse is set.
  • Make the strawberry topping by adding the strawberries to a cup, then pureeing them with the Zwilling XTEND Cordless Hand Blender until smooth.
  • Remove the chocolate mousse from the fridge, top with the pureed strawberry and a dollop of whipped cream. Yum!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 348kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 30g | Sugar: 6g
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30 Minutes or Less

3 Ingredient Brownies (gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free!)

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overhead image of 3 ingredient brownies with mini chocolate chips on top.

If you have bananas, peanut butter, and cocoa powder at home then you can make the most delicious 3 ingredient brownies! Something about me is I’m constantly stocking up on bananas. Not only because my toddler LOVES them, but they’re the star ingredient of so many of my healthy recipes. I use them most mornings in my 3 ingredient protein pancakes, then I always save some to make my 4 ingredient banana bread, and any leftovers get frozen for healthy protein smoothies!

Bananas are also the perfect base to this 3 ingredient brownies recipe. They provide structure and a natural sweetness to this gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and totally sugar-free recipe! The only other ingredients you’ll need are peanut butter and unsweetened cocoa powder. Then, grab just one bowl and you’ll be on your way to making the most rich and fudgy brownies that are light and healthy, but still taste indulgent!

the side of a 3 ingredient brownie resting on top of another brownie.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple Ingredients: Requires only three pantry staples.
  • Quick and Easy: From mixing to baking, you’ll have brownies ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Diet-Friendly: Naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and contains no added sugars.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Ripeness Matters: Use overripe bananas for optimal sweetness and moisture.
  • Nut Butter Choices: Peanut butter adds a robust flavor, while almond or cashew butter offers milder alternatives. And for a nut-free version, try sunflower seed butter instead!
  • Optional Add-Ins: For extra sweetness, mix in maple syrup or sprinkle chocolate chips on top before baking.
3 ingredient brownies on a table stacked on top of each other.

Storage Instructions

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigeration: Keep refrigerated for up to a week.
  • Freezing: Freeze individual slices for up to a month; thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
overhead image of 3 ingredient brownies with mini chocolate chips on top.
5 from 5 votes

3 Ingredient Brownies (gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free!)

Indulge in these rich, fudgy brownies made with just three simple ingredients: bananas, peanut butter, and cocoa powder. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a quick, healthy, and delicious dessert that's gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and sugar-free. Plus, it all comes together in just one bowl!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Equipment

  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 9×4-inch loaf pan

Ingredients

  • 3 overripe bananas about 1 1/2 cups when mashed
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter or any nut/seed butter
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

Optional add-ins:

  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup optional, for extra sweetness
  • 1/4 cup chocolate chips optional

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×4-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, then grease the inside of the pan with oil or butter.
  • Mash the bananas in a large bowl until mostly smooth, then add in the peanut butter, cocoa powder, and maple syrup (if using). Mix everything together until fully combined.
  • Transfer the brownie batter to your prepared baking pan and top with chocolate chips (if using), then bake for 18-20 minutes or until the brownie are just set in the middle.
  • Remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool completely before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1brownie | Calories: 140kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 8g | Sugar: 6g
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30 Minutes or Less

Almond Flour Chocolate Cookies

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almond flour chocolate cookies on top of each other of a baking sheet.

I love baking with almond flour! It’s this incredible ingredient that create beautiful structure and texture in gluten-free baked goods. I recently revisited my almond flour brownies recipe (OMG so good!) and used almond flour as the base in my healthy gluten-free twix bars recipe. And because I also recently stocked up on almond flour (hello, 4 pound bag of almond flour from Amazon!) I set out to create another delicious dessert recipe where almond flour was the star.

These almond flour double chocolate cookies took me just one try to perfect! I had my dad (the biggest gluten-free skeptic) try these cookies and even he LOVED them. He actually has no clue they’re gluten-free, and I’m sure he’d be absolutely shocked to find out they’re made with almond flour. They’re chewy and fudgy, perfectly sweet, and truly just as delicious as any other cookie recipe – you’ll never guess they’re gluten-free!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • These cookies have a rich, chocolatey flavor with a soft, chewy texture.
  • They’re gluten-free and grain-free, using almond flour for a nutrient-packed base.
  • This recipe is quick and easy to make with minimal cleanup – just one bowl!
an almond flour chocolate cookie split in half.

What You’ll Need to Make Almond Flour Chocolate Cookies

  • Butter & Coconut Oil – Adds moisture and richness, giving the cookies a tender crumb and delicious buttery flavor. Coconut oil enhances texture while adding a slight nuttiness.
  • Brown Sugar & Cane Sugar – Brown sugar provides moisture and chewiness, while cane sugar adds a touch of crispness and sweetness.
  • Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor, adding warmth and depth to the cookies.
  • Egg – Binds the ingredients and creates structure, helping the cookies rise and hold their shape.
  • Almond Flour – The star ingredient! Provides a gluten-free, grain-free base that’s rich in healthy fats and nutrients. I buy my almond flour in bulk on Amazon!
  • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Adds a deep, chocolatey flavor to the cookies.
  • Baking Soda & Salt – Helps the cookies rise while balancing the sweetness.
  • Chocolate Chips – Brings bursts of chocolate in every bite.

How to Make Almond Flour Chocolate Cookies

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, beat together the butter, coconut oil, brown sugar, and cane sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Mix in the vanilla extract and egg until fully combined.
  4. Stir in almond flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until just combined.
  5. Fold in the chocolate chips. Scoop 2-tablespoon balls of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them 2-3 inches apart. Flatten slightly with your palm.
  6. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
almond flour chocolate cookie with a bite taken out.

Topping & Mix-In Options

  • Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt before baking for a sweet-salty twist.
  • Swap out chocolate chips for dark chocolate chunks or white chocolate for variety.
  • Add chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular flour?
Yes, but the texture and flavor will change. Regular flour won’t provide the same rich, nutty flavor or gluten-free benefits as almond flour.

Can I make these dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the butter for plant-based butter or additional coconut oil.

Can I make these vegan?
Yes! Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) as an egg replacement and dairy-free butter.

Can I use coconut sugar to make these refined sugar-free?
Yes! Substitute coconut sugar for both brown and cane sugar to keep the recipe refined sugar-free.

almond flour chocolate cookies on parchment paper.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Don’t overmix the dough – just stir until combined to avoid dense cookies!
  • Let the cookies cool completely before storing to prevent them from getting soggy.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
almond flour chocolate cookies on top of each other of a baking sheet.
5 from 2 votes

Almond Flour Chocolate Cookies

These almond flour chocolate cookies are rich, indulgent, and easy to make with just one bowl. They're gluten-free and grain-free, but just as delicious as any other cookie. These are the perfect treat for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 16 cookies

Equipment

  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 hand or stand mixer
  • 1 large baking sheet

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup butter softened
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil melted (or an additional 2 tablespoons of butter)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar
  • 1/4 cup cane sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 egg at room temperature
  • 1 3/4 cups almond flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chocolate chips I used extra dark chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, beat together the butter, coconut oil, brown sugar, and cane sugar with either a hand or stand mixer for 2-3 minutes.
  • Once the butter mixture is light and fluffy, add in the vanilla extract and egg, and beat again until combined.
  • Add in the almond flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt, this time stirring with a spatula or large spoon until the dough is just combined.
  • Fold the chocolate chips into the batter, then scoop 2 tablespoon-sized balls of cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Place each cookie about 2-3 inched apart, and slightly flatten each cookie with the palm of your hand.
    almond-flour-chocolate-cookies-step-3
  • Bake cookies for 10-12 minutes, then let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
    almond-flour-chocolate-cookies-step-4

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookie | Calories: 250kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 18g | Sugar: 16g
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