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30 Minutes or Less

Cottage Cheese Smoothie (35g protein!)

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cottage cheese smoothie with a strawberry on the side.

It’s true! You really can add cottage cheese to almost everything. My personal favorite way to use cottage cheese is in a recipe where you won’t even taste it. Because if I’m being completely honest, I actually don’t like cottage cheese. Which is why in any recipe I use cottage cheese, like this cottage cheese cookie dough or this cottage cheese pizza crust, I can guarantee you won’t taste the cottage cheese at all! It simply adds hidden protein and nutrients, and in this smoothie specifically – makes it ultra thick, creamy, and ultimately SO delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Cottage Cheese Smoothie

  • Over 35 grams of protein in one smoothie!
  • Perfect for a healthy breakfast, post-workout meal, or filling snack.
  • Thick, creamy, and delicious – no grainy texture.
  • You can’t taste the cottage cheese at all!
  • Naturally sweetened with fruit.
  • Quick and easy to make in under 5 minutes.

This smoothie is ideal if you’re trying to increase protein intake without relying solely on Greek yogurt or protein shakes.

overhead image of cottage cheese smoothie with a straw and strawberry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you taste the cottage cheese?

Nope! Once blended, cottage cheese becomes ultra-smooth and creamy. It has a very mild flavor, so the banana, berries, and protein powder completely mask it. Even cottage-cheese skeptics will love this smoothie!

What kind of protein powder did you use?

I used a vanilla protein powder (this link gets you 20% off the protein powder I use and love!), but any vanilla or unsweetened protein powder works well. Even collagen powder would taste great and blend seamlessly into this smoothie.

How much protein does this smoothie have?

This smoothie contains over 35 grams of protein, depending on the brand of cottage cheese, milk, and protein powder you use. Even without protein powder, it’s still packed with protein thanks to the cottage cheese.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • No protein powder: Skip it – the smoothie is still high in protein!
  • Different fruit: Swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or mango.
  • Extra thickness: Add ice or more frozen fruit.
  • More nutrients: Blend in spinach or chia seeds for a nutrient boost!
cottage cheese smoothie with a strawberry on the side.
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Cottage Cheese Smoothie (35g protein!)

This cottage cheese smoothie is thick, creamy, and packed with over 35 grams of protein, making it a perfect healthy breakfast or high-protein snack! You can’t taste the cottage cheese at all – it blends smoothly with frozen fruit for a delicious, naturally sweet flavor. Made with simple ingredients, this protein smoothie is quick, filling, and ideal for busy mornings or post-workout fuel!
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Servings: 1 serving

Equipment

  • 1 blender

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup cottage cheese
  • 1/2 frozen banana
  • 4-5 frozen strawberries or 1/2 cup frozen berries
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1 scoop (or 1 serving) protein powder optional for extra protein!

Instructions

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

Nutrition

Serving: 1smoothie | Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 37g | Fat: 9g | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 20g
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30 Minutes or Less

Collagen Cookie Dough Protein Bars

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overhead image of sliced collagen cookie dough protein bars.

It’s no secret I love cookie dough. The cookie dough obsession started with my viral healthy 4-ingredient cookie dough bark, then spiraled into an edible cottage cheese cookie dough and healthy cookie dough date bites. So up next in our cookie dough lineup are these seriously delicious collagen cookie dough protein bars. Made in just one bowl, with 7 simple ingredients – they’re totally gluten-free, dairy-free, and pack 15 grams of protein per bar! I’ve truly never found a protein bar recipe with cleaner ingredients than this one right here. I love meal prepping a double batch of these homemade protein bars, freezing half, then enjoying the other half as an afternoon protein snack all week long. So simple, healthy, and truly delicious!

Why You’ll Love These Cookie Dough Protein Bars

These cookie dough protein bars taste just like edible cookie dough, but with a healthy, nourishing twist! They’re no-bake, gluten-free, dairy-free, and made in just one bowl with 7 simple ingredients, perfect for busy weeks and meal prep. Each bar packs 15 grams of protein, making them a satisfying snack, dessert, or post-workout treat you’ll actually look forward to snacking on!

a bite taken out of a collagen cookie dough protein bar

Frequently Asked Questions

What collagen powder did you use?
I used Vital Proteins Collagen Powder, but Further Foods Collagen works just as well. Any unflavored collagen powder will work here without affecting the taste or texture.

Can I use a different nut or seed butter?
Yes! Cashew butter makes these bars extra creamy, but peanut butter works great too. For a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter is a solid substitute – just note it may slightly change the flavor.

How much protein is in each bar?
Each bar contains about 15 grams of protein, primarily from the collagen powder and nut butter, making them a great high-protein snack option!

Storage Tips

Store these cookie dough protein bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, keep them in the freezer for up to 2 months and let them thaw for a few minutes before enjoying. They’re best served chilled for that classic cookie dough texture.

overhead image of sliced collagen cookie dough protein bars.
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Collagen Cookie Dough Protein Bars

These cookie dough protein bars taste just like classic cookie dough, but are made with simple, better-for-you ingredients and 15 grams of protein per bar. They’re no-bake, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making them the perfect easy snack, dessert, or post-workout treat. Made in just one bowl with 7 ingredients, these healthy cookie dough protein bars are a must-make for meal prep.
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 10 servings

Equipment

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

Ingredients

  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 3/4 cup creamy cashew butter or peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup collagen
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • pinch of salt
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Nutrition

Serving: 1bar | Calories: 280kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 20g | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 9g
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30 Minutes or Less

3-Ingredient Protein Cookies (20g protein each!)

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overhead image of 3 ingredient protein cookies with a bite taken out.

The self-proclaimed protein cookie queen (hi, it’s me!) is at it again with yet another quick, easy, and ttoally delicious protein cookie recipe! My single serve protein cookie was such a big hit, I received soooo many requests to make a full batch version. Well, I present to you – a rich, chewy, slightly fudgy, protein-packed cookie made with just 3 ingredients! Honestly, if I hadn’t tried them myself, I’d think these 3 ingredient protein cookies were too good to be true. They’re just as delicious as any other cookie, but pack in a whopping 20 grams of protein each!

Why You’ll Love These 3-Ingredient Protein Cookies

  • Ridiculously simple – only three main ingredients and 10 minutes in the oven!
  • Naturally healthy – made with real food, no refined sugars and totally gluten-free.
  • High-protein & satisfying – perfect for post-workout snack or quick breakfast treat.
  • Totally customizable – add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What protein powder did you use?
I used the Be Well By Kelly vanilla protein powder, which mixes in perfectly and keeps these cookies soft and chewy.

Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes! Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter all work beautifully – just use the same amount.

How much protein is in each cookie?
Each cookie contains around 20 grams of protein, depending on your protein powder brand and mix-ins.

close up of 3 ingredient protein cookies with a bite taken out.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • Chocolate Lovers: Fold in ¼ cup dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs.
  • Nut-Free/Vegan: Use sunflower seed butter and dairy-free protein powder.
  • Low-Sugar: Swap chocolate chips for chopped nuts or unsweetened shredded coconut.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice for seasonal flavor!

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Mash the banana very well for an even and smooth batter!
  • If the dough is too dry, add 1–2 teaspoons of non-dairy milk.
  • For crispier edges, flatten the cookies a little more before baking.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
overhead image of 3 ingredient protein cookies with a bite taken out.
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3-Ingredient Protein Cookies (20g protein each!)

These 3 ingredient protein cookies are soft, chewy, naturally sweet, and packed with protein for the perfect healthy snack or post-workout treat! Made with banana, peanut butter, and protein powder, they’re quick to make, totally customizable, and naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. If you’re looking for an easy high-protein cookie recipe that tastes amazing and comes together in minutes, this is it!
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 5 cookies

Equipment

  • 1 large bowl

Ingredients

  • 1 ripe banana
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter or any nut/seed butter
  • 1/2 cup protein powder

Optional:

  • 1/4 cup chocolate chips or any mix-ins you'd like!

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Mash the banana in a bowl until mostly smooth, then mix in the peanut butter and protein powder.
  • Fold in the chocolate chips or any mix-in you’d like, then scoop 2 tablespoon-sized mounds of cookie dough onto the parchment paper. Slightly wet your hands, then use them to gently press and flatten each cookie slightly.
  • Bake the cookies for 10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown around the edges, then remove from the oven and transfer to a wire cooling rack before serving or storing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookie | Calories: 190kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 13g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 5g
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30 Minutes or Less

Protein Coffee Recipe (15g protein!)

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protein coffee on a table with coffee and milk on the side.

I’ve done my research and discovered that most of us are not eating enough protein every day! And while I can tell myself I want to eat more protein throughout the day, it’s not always possible – and definitely not easy. So I came up with the easiest way possible to get in an extra 15 grams (at least!) of protein first thing in the morning… in my coffee! Because while I might not have time to think about or remember to eat a protein-packed meal, I always make time for my morning coffee. By adding this protein coffee recipe to my morning routine, I add anywhere from 15 grams – 30 grams of additional protein to my day. It keeps me energized, reduces caffeine-related jitters, and honestly tastes delicious too. Paired with a high-protein breakfast like my 3-ingredient protein pancakes I feel amazing knowing I’m starting my day doing and feeling my BEST!

Why You’ll Love This Protein Coffee Recipe

This protein coffee is everything you love about your morning latte, but with more staying power. The added protein helps balance blood sugar, keeps you fuller longer, and gives you that extra boost to power through workouts, busy work mornings, or school drop-offs. It’s incredibly creamy, tastes like a coffee shop treat, and takes just minutes to make – no blender required.

protein coffee on a table.

What Kind of Protein Drink or Protein Powder Should I Use?

Choose a protein drink or powder you genuinely love the taste of, because you’ll definitely taste it in your coffee. I love the Aloha protein drinks and powders, or the Remedy Organics protein drinks for added nutritional benefits. I’ll even use a scoop of unflavored collagen powder – Vital Proteins collagen has 18 grams of protein per serving, which is amazing!

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • Make it Dairy-Free / Vegan: Use almond milk, coconut milk, soy milk, or any dairy-free protein drink.
  • Hot or Iced: This recipe works beautifully iced – just skip warming the milk and pour over chilled coffee!
  • Mocha Protein Coffee: Add 1 teaspoon cocoa powder or use chocolate protein.
  • Sweeter Version: Add maple syrup, honey, or monk fruit sweetener if you prefer a sweeter coffee!
  • Extra Creamy: Use barista-style non-dairy milk for a creamy, frothy latte texture.
protein coffee on a table with coffee and milk on the side.
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Protein Coffee Recipe (15+ grams protein!)

Wake up to this easy protein coffee recipe that adds at least 15 grams of protein to your morning without sacrificing that rich, cozy coffee flavor you love! It’s creamy, energizing, dairy-free (if you want it to be!), and the perfect way to stay fuller longer. Whether you use a protein drink, protein powder, or collagen, this high-protein coffee is the delicious, healthy upgrade your morning routine needs!
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Servings: 1 serving

Ingredients

For the protein drink version:

  • 1 cup vanilla protein drink
  • 1 cup hot or iced coffee

For the protein powder version:

  • 1 cup milk or non-dairy milk
  • 1 scoop vanilla protein powder or collagen powder
  • 1 cup hot or iced coffee

Instructions

For the protein drink version:

  • Pour the protein drink into a milk frother and froth until it’s warm, then pour over your coffee.

For the protein powder version:

  • Add the milk and protein powder to a milk frother and froth until it’s warm, then pour over your coffee.

Notes

Nutrition info is not included for this recipe, because it greatly varies based on what kind of protein drink or protein powder you use.
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30 Minutes or Less

4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cornflake Bars

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overhead image of peanut butter cornflake bars with a bite taken out.

Peanut butter + chocolate is the ultimate flavor combo if ya ask me. I really can’t get enough of it! I made my frozen banana and peanut butter bites all summer, and my healthy strawberry peanut butter cups were one of the most popular recipes I’ve ever shared. So when I was thinking up this recipe for a peanut butter and chocolate bar, loaded with cornflakes for extra crunch – I knew it’d be a huge hit! I actually tested this peanut butter cornflake bars recipe right before my family came over a few weeks ago, so they all got to be the first to try it and gave it raves reviews. After that, I wasted no time getting this recipe ready to share with you all! I just know you’ll love these crunchy, peanut butter-y, and extra chocolatey cornflake bars as much as they did!

peanut butter cornflake bars cut into squares with flaky sea salt on top.

Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Cornflake Bars

  • Simple & no-bake: Only four base ingredients and no oven – ideal for quick treats or busy days. They’re naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and ready in no time at all!
  • Crunchy + chewy texture: Cornflakes give a satisfying crunch, peanut butter binds it all together, and the chocolate layer adds richness – a classic combo that hits sweet and salty just right!
  • Flexible & allergy-friendly: It’s easy to swap ingredients – use sunflower butter or almond butter instead of peanut butter, or gluten-free cornflakes – and still get delicious bars that work for vegan, dairy-free, or gluten-free diets.

How to Store These Bars

Once assembled and chilled until firm, store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge – they’ll stay good for up to 1 week. For longer storage, you can freeze individual bars for up to 2–3 months; just thaw for a few minutes before serving for best texture.

overhead image of peanut butter cornflake bars.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Use gluten-free cornflakes like these ones, if you’re avoiding gluten – always double-check cereal packaging!
  • Press the cornflake-peanut butter mixture firmly into the pan so bars hold together well after chilling.
  • Melt chocolate gently (microwave or double-boiler), and pour while warm for a smooth top that sets evenly.
  • For extra crunch or festive flair: sprinkle sea salt, chopped nuts, or crushed candy over the chocolate before it sets!
overhead image of peanut butter cornflake bars with a bite taken out.
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4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cornflake Bars

These 4-ingredient peanut butter cornflake bars are the ultimate no-bake treat – crunchy, chocolatey, and ready in minutes! Made with simple pantry staples, they’re naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and even vegan. These peanut butter cornflake bars are delicious as an easy sweet snack or holiday treat!
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Servings: 16 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter unsweetened
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey
  • 3 1/2 cups cornflakes

For the chocolate layer:

  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter unsweetened

Instructions

  • Mix together the peanut butter and maple syrup in a large bowl, then add in the cornflake and mix again until the cornflakes are coated in the peanut butter mixture.
  • Transfer the cornflake mixture to a 9×9-inch pan lined with parchment paper, and gently press it down into an even layer.
  • Make the chocolate layer by melting together the chocolate chips and peanut butter in either the microwave or over a double boiler until completely smooth and combined.
  • Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cornflakes and smooth it into an even layer. Transfer the pan to the fridge for set for about 1 hour, then remove from the fridge and cut into squares.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 230kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 14g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 11g
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