Tag

paleo

Browsing
30 Minutes or Less

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

By
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.
No ratings yet

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
View Post
By
30 Minutes or Less

Healthy Banana Bread Mug Cake (just 6 ingredients!)

By
healthy banana mug cake with a spoon

I’ll admit, I have a pretty big sweet tooth. And I really can’t go to bed without a little sweet treat to end my day. But I like to keep that sweet treat to something a little healthier. Lately, I’ve been making my single serve protein cookie or a quick batch of healthier almond flour brownies. But when I’m craving banana bread, or something more cake-like I reach for this healthy (& easy!) banana bread mug cake. Made with just 6 ingredients – totally gluten-free, dairy-free, and lightly sweetened with maple syrup! It honestly tastes just like banana bread, but a whole lot healthier and way easier to make.

Why You’ll Love This Banana Mug Cake

  • Made with just 6 simple ingredients.
  • It’s the perfect single serving!
  • Tastes just like classic banana bread, but healthier.
  • Gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free!
  • Ready in just minutes.
  • Perfect for dessert, snack, or even breakfast.

This mug cake is soft, fluffy, and naturally sweet from ripe banana!

healthy banana mug cake with chocolate chips on top.

What Makes This Recipe Healthy?

  • It’s naturally sweetened with banana and a touch of maple syrup.
  • Made with almond flour for healthy fats, extra protein and fiber!
  • No refined sugars or processed foods, just 6 nutritious ingredients.
  • Can be made in the microwave or oven!

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • Make it Vegan / Egg-Free: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2½ tablespoons water).
  • Make it Nut-Free: Use oat flour instead of almond flour.
  • Add Extra flavor: Add vanilla extract or chopped walnuts depending on your preferences.
  • Make it Low Sugar: Skip the maple syrup if your banana is very ripe.
  • For Chocolate lovers: Stir chocolate chips into the batter.
healthy banana mug cake with a spoon
5 from 6 votes

6-Ingredient Banana Mug Cake

This banana mug cake tastes just like classic banana bread but is made with simple, healthy ingredients and ready in minutes! It’s a single-serve, gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free recipe made with just 6 ingredients. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, this healthy banana mug cake can be made in the microwave or oven!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 7 minutes
Servings: 1 serving

Equipment

  • 1 microwave-safe mug

Ingredients

  • 1 ripe banana
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup almond flour
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or your favorite liquid sweetener
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • chocolate chips optional

Instructions

  • Mash the banana in a mug, then mix in the remaining ingredients (except for the chocolate chips). Once the mug cake is well mixed and the batter is mostly smooth, top with chocolate chips then bake for 350° Fahrenheit for 25-30 minutes. Or, microwave on high for 2 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 380kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 21g | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 20g
View Post
By
30 Minutes or Less

Single Serve Protein Cookie Skillet (30g protein!)

By
close up image of protein cookie skillet with chocolate chips on top.

I’m the kind of girl that needs a little something sweet at the end of every day. And these days, I just don’t have the time to make big batches of sweet treats all the time – which is where my recent obsession for single serve desserts comes in. It started with my single serve gluten-free cinnamon roll, then my healthy mug cake, and now this single serve protein cookie skillet. Because another thing about me is that I’ve been working really hard on eating more protein. Protein keeps me fueled, satisfied, and curbs my appetite. But the cookie nature (if you will) of this single serve recipe keeps me happy! I’m seriously addicted to this single serve protein cookie skillet, and know if you give it a try that you will be too. 😍

Why You’ll Love This Single Serve Protein Cookie Skillet

  • Over 30 grams of protein in one serving!
  • Perfect single serve dessert.
  • Warm, gooey, and incredibly satisfying.
  • Gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free!
  • Comes together in minutes with minimal cleanup.
  • Made with wholesome, better-for-you ingredients.
overhead image of single serve protein cookie skillet with flaky sea salt on top.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much protein does this protein cookie skillet have?

This skillet cookie contains 30+ grams of protein, depending on the protein powder you use.

Can I make a larger skillet?

Yes! You can easily double or triple the recipe and bake it in a larger oven-safe skillet. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time and keep an eye on the center.

What kind of protein powder did you use?

I used Aloha plant-based vanilla protein powder, but I’ve also made this with Vital Farms unflavored collagen powder, and it turns out just as delicious. Any vanilla or unflavored protein powder will work well.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • Make it Egg-free: Replace the egg with ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg.
  • Make it Nut-free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
  • Lower sugar: Use sugar-free maple syrup or reduce the amount.
  • Different flavors: Add cinnamon, flaky sea salt, or swap chocolate chips for chopped dark chocolate.
close up image of protein cookie skillet with chocolate chips on top.
No ratings yet

Single Serve Protein Cookie Skillet (30g protein!)

This protein cookie skillet is a warm, gooey single-serve dessert with over 30 grams of protein! It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, refined sugar-free, and made with simple, wholesome ingredients. Perfect when you want a healthy cookie that tastes indulgent, this protein cookie skillet comes together in just minutes!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 1 serving

Equipment

  • 1 small skillet

Ingredients

  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup almond flour
  • 2 tablespoons protein powder
  • 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter or any nut/seed butter
  • 1 tablespoon oil I used avocado oil
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or any liquid sweetener
  • 2 tablespoons chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit.
  • Add all ingredients to a mini skillet, except for the chocolate chips, and mix together until a thick dough forms.
  • Sprinkle the chocolate chips on top of the skillet then bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookie is done to your liking (I like mine slightly gooey in the center). Let cool slightly then enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1skillet | Calories: 600kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 40g | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 15g
View Post
By
30 Minutes or Less

Collagen Cookie Dough Protein Bars

By
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.
No ratings yet

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.
Print Pin Rate
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

Instructions

  • Mix together all ingredients except for the chocolate chips in a large bowl. Once the mixture has come together to resemble the consistency of cookie dough, fold in the chocolate chips.
  • Transfer the mixture to a 9×9-inch square baking pan lined with parchment paper, and press it down into an even layer in the pan.
  • Chill the bars in the fridge or freezer for about 30 minutes, then remove from the fridge and slice into 9 bars. Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to eat.

Nutrition

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

5-Ingredient Chocolate Peppermint Protein Balls

By
bite taken out of a bowl of chocolate peppermint protein balls.

These rich, festive protein balls pair chocolate and peppermint flavor perfectly – made with only five simple ingredients, and delivering about 10 grams of protein each! They’re gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, making them an ideal treat for holiday gatherings or anytime you want a healthy sweet snack. Crunchy candy-cane topping meets a creamy almond-butter base plus chocolate protein for a satisfying treat!

chocolate peppermint protein balls in a small bowl.

Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Peppermint Protein Balls

  • Creamy nut/seed butter and chocolate protein powder combine for a high-protein snack that also satisfies your sweet tooth.
  • The peppermint extract and candy-cane topping bring a festive, refreshing twist without added junk.
  • Quick to make, simple to store, and perfect for holiday prepping (or regular snack stash).

Frequently Asked Questions

Does any nut or seed butter work?
Yes – almond butter, cashew butter, sunflower seed butter, or even peanut butter will work!
What protein powder do you use?
Aloha Chocolate Protein Powder or any high-quality chocolate-flavored protein works; opt for vegan if you want fully plant-based.
How do I store these protein balls?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months and thaw before eating.

Close up image of chocolate peppermint protein balls in a small bowl.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • Swap almond butter for cashew or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version!
  • Omit candy-canes and sprinkle sea-salt flakes or cocoa nibs instead.
  • Use sugar-free dark chocolate chips to reduce added sugars while keeping richness.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • If the mixture seems too dry to roll, add one tablespoon of non-dairy milk at a time until you can comfortably roll it.
  • Use parchment-lined tray before freezing to prevent sticking, and press the crushed candy-canes lightly so they adhere to the chocolate coating.
  • For smoother melting, heat chocolate chips + coconut oil in 30-second bursts, stirring between intervals to avoid burning.
bite taken out of a bowl of chocolate peppermint protein balls.
No ratings yet

Chocolate Peppermint Protein Balls

These rich, festive protein balls pair chocolate and peppermint flavor perfectly – made with only five simple ingredients, and delivering about 9 grams of protein each! They’re gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, making them an ideal treat for holiday gatherings or anytime you want a healthy sweet snack. Crunchy candy-cane topping meets a creamy almond-butter base plus chocolate protein for a satisfying treat!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 10 servings

Equipment

  • 1 medium bowl
  • 1 small bowl

Ingredients

  • 1 cup chocolate protein powder if unsweetened, add 3 tablespoons of maple syrup to this recipe
  • 1/2 cup almond butter or cashew butter
  • 3-4 tablespoons non-dairy milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract

For the chocolate coating:

  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil optional
  • crushed candy canes optional

Instructions

  • Add the almond butter, chocolate protein powder, peppermint extract, and non-dairy milk to a bowl and mix until fully combined. Continue adding one tablespoon of non-dairy milk if the mixture seems too dry to roll into balls.
  • Scoop the truffles with a medium-sized cookie scoop into about 2 tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls between the palms of your hands. Transfer the balls to the freezer for a few minutes while you prepare the topping.
  • Melt together the chocolate chips and coconut oil in either the microwave or over a double boiler until completely smooth.
  • Dip each protein truffle into the melted chocolate, then carefully transfer to a parchment-lined plate. Sprinkle the truffles with crushed candy canes, then transfer to the fridge until the chocolate has hardened.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 195kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 5g
View Post
By