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30 Minutes or Less

5 Ingredient Cookie Dough Protein Balls

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cookie dough protein balls on a plate

Why You’ll Love These Protein Balls

Easy, No-Bake Snack: Made with just 5 simple ingredients and ready in minutes – no oven required!

Packed with Protein: Each ball contains 7 grams of protein, making them a perfect post-workout or midday snack.

Healthy & Dietary-Friendly: Gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and naturally sweetened with maple syrup.

Recipe Variations

  • Mix in Superfoods: Add chia seeds, flaxseeds, or hemp hearts for extra fiber and omega-3s.
  • Swap the Nut Butter: Use almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor. For nut-free, use sunflower seed butter.
  • Boost the Chocolate: Dip the balls in melted dark chocolate and let them harden in the fridge for a chocolate-covered protein treat!

The Mixture is Too Dry, What Do I Do?

If the mixture is dry or crumbly, simply:

  • Add 1 tablespoon of water or almond milk at a time until the dough comes together.
  • Alternatively, add an extra tablespoon of peanut butter for more moisture and flavor.
Hand holding a cookie dough protein ball.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make it Nut-Free: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter and use oat flour instead of almond flour.
  • Make it Keto: Use almond flour instead of oats and a sugar-free maple syrup alternative.
  • Make it Grain-Free/Paleo: Skip the oats and use almond flour for a smooth, doughy texture.

Storage Instructions

  • Fridge: Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Let thaw for a few minutes before enjoying.

More Healthy Snack Recipes

If you love these no-bake protein balls, check out my other snack recipes like:

Enjoy these 5-ingredient cookie dough protein balls as a nutritious snack or dessert! 😋

cookie dough protein balls on a plate
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Cookie Dough Protein Balls

Satisfy your sweet tooth with these 5-ingredient cookie dough protein balls – the perfect no-bake snack! Packed with 7 grams of protein per ball, they’re gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, making them ideal for a healthy energy boost. Ready in minutes, they’re a delicious and nutritious way to fuel your day!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Equipment

  • 1 medium bowl

Ingredients

  • 1 cup rolled oats or almond flour
  • 1/4 cup vanilla protein powder
  • 1/4 cup peanut butter
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to a medium bowl and stir until thoroughly combined.
  • Roll mixture into 1-inch balls.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 145kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 6g | Sugar: 7g
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Dairy-Free

Healthy Gluten-Free Magic Bars

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overhead image of a healthy gluten-free magic bar with chocolate chips on top.

Magic bars were one of my favorite childhood treats! My mom had a few dessert recipes she rotated through – her famous watergate salad was a big one, and 7-layer magic bars were a close second. So when I got hit with this insane craving for magic bars, I looked up a few recipes and was pretty shocked by what I found. Most magic bars are made with tons, and I mean TONS of processed sugar. Though since I’ve basically made it my life’s work to turn our favorite desserts into healthier ones, I knew I had to get working on a healthier magic bar recipe!

This recipe took quite a few tries, but I ultimately perfected it! I used the same almond flour shortbread crust as my healthy pecan pie bars recipe, and riffed off my healthy vegan caramel sauce for a healthier sweetened condensed milk alternative. I then topped these bars with plenty of coconuts, chopped nuts, and of course – chocolate chips! The end result is a bar just as indulgent as the classic magic bars we all know and love, made with healthier ingredients and a fraction of the sugar. I just know you’re gonna LOVE these!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Naturally Sweetened – No refined sugar, just maple syrup and coconut cream for a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
  • Easy & Quick – Simple ingredients, one bowl for the crust, and a short bake time.
  • Customizable – Easily make them nut-free, keto-friendly, or extra chocolatey!
a healthy gluten-free magic bar with a bite taken out.

What Makes These Magic Bars Healthier?

Traditional magic bars are loaded with processed sugars and condensed milk, but this healthier version swaps in:

  • Almond flour for a grain-free, nutrient-dense crust.
  • Maple syrup instead of refined sugar.
  • Coconut cream for a dairy-free caramel alternative.
  • Dark chocolate chips with minimal added sugar, or opt for a refined sugar-free chocolate chip like these!

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • For Extra Firm Bars – Let them chill in the fridge overnight before slicing.
  • For More Chocolate Flavor – Drizzle melted chocolate over the top before serving.
  • For a More Caramel-Like Texture – Use cashew butter instead of almond butter.
two healthy gluten-free magic bars stacked on top of each other.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

Nut-Free Option – Use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter and swap the nuts for pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

Keto-Friendly Option – Substitute maple syrup with a keto-friendly syrup and use sugar-free chocolate chips.

Refined Sugar-Free – Stick with pure maple syrup and dark chocolate for a naturally sweet treat!

Storage Instructions

Fridge: Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months and thaw before serving.

overhead image of a healthy gluten-free magic bar with chocolate chips on top.
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Healthy Gluten-Free Magic Bars

These healthy magic bars are a better-for-you twist on the classic 7-layer bars! Made with a buttery almond flour crust, a naturally sweetened caramel layer, crunchy nuts, coconut, and melty dark chocolate, these bars are gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and refined sugar-free. They’re the perfect treat for when you’re craving something sweet but still healthier.
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 16 bars

Equipment

  • 1 9×9-inch baking pan
  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 small saucepan

Ingredients

For the shortbread crust:

  • 2 cups almond flour
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the topping:

  • 1/2 cup coconut cream (the thick white part at the top of a can of full-fat coconut milk)
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup almond butter or peanut butter
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup dark chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • Add all shortbread crust ingredients to a large bowl and mix to combine. Then, transfer the crust to your prepared baking pan and press the crust down into an even layer over the base of the baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly golden brown around the edges.
  • Remove the crust from the oven to cool, and while it cools make the caramel by adding the coconut cream, maple syrup, and almond butter to a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk the mixture together and cool for 3-5 minutes, whisking constantly, until the caramel has melted together and slightly thickened.
  • Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the caramel to cool slightly, then mix the chopped walnuts or pecans and shredded coconut into the caramel.
  • Pour the caramel mixture over the cooled crust and spread it into an even layer over the crust. Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the caramel layer (if you’d like, you can then sprinkle an additional 1-2 tablespoons of shredded coconut and chopped walnuts or pecans over the chocolate chips to make the bars a little prettier), then bake the bars for an additional 20 minutes.
  • Remove the bars from the oven and leave them to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer them to the fridge to completely set for at least one hour. Remove the bars from the fridge, cut into square, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1bar | Calories: 325kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 6.4g | Fat: 27g | Sugar: 13g
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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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Desserts

4-Ingredient Gluten-Free Almond Flour Cake

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This almond flour cake is light, moist, and easy to make. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, grain-free, and made with wholesome ingredients. You only need one bowl and a few pantry staples to create this delicious, crowd-pleasing dessert!

Can You Use Almond Flour For Cakes?

Yes, absolutely! Almond flour adds texture and flavor, and is loved by those following a paleo diet. Almond flour can be beneficial to someone looking to reduce their carbs, grains and sugar intake. Unlike wheat or rice flour blends, almond flour contains no grains so it won’t lead to a spike blood sugar. And after you make this cake, I highly recommend you use any leftover almond flour to make almond flour chocolate cookies and almond flour brownies – YUM!

gluten-free almond flour cake sliced on a plate.

What You’ll Need To Make Almond Flour Cake

Eggs – Bring your eggs to room temperature before using them in this recipe. Then, crack them into your bowl and beat them until super light and airy. The goal here is to introduce as much air to the eggs as possible, which will result in a lighter and fluffier cake!

Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb. Feel free to substitute with coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free option.

Almond Flour – I recommend the Bob’s Red Mill Super Fine Almond Flour for this grain-free recipe. The more finely ground the almond flour is, the lighter your cake will be. However, if you can’t find an almond flour labeled “super fine,” don’t worry – many are ground finely enough to work in this recipe. Also, avoid using almond meal, it’s heavier and will result in a more dense cake.

Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise and adds fluffiness!

Lemon Zest – Let’s call is the secret ingredient! A pinch of lemon zest gives this almond flour cake a hint of tangy, citrus-y freshness. Without out, the cake tastes great, but with it, the cake tastes incredible. So if you’re looking to take this gluten-free dessert recipe up a notch, don’t forget the lemon zest.

overhead image of almond flour cake on a plate.

How to Make Almond Flour Cake

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease an 8-inch cake pan.Beat eggs and sugar until pale and thick (about 5 minutes).
  2. Add almond flour, baking powder, and lemon zest. Beat until just combined.
  3. Pour batter into the pan and top with sliced almonds if using.
  4. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  5. Let cool completely before serving.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Beat the eggs for a full 5 minutes, no less! Beating the eggs until pale and thick is hands-down the most important part of this recipe. No matter how tempting it may be, don’t cut this step short!
  • For easy removal, I recommend baking this almond flour cake in a spring-form pan. Once done baking, gently run a butter knife along the inside edge of the pan to unstick it from the sides. Then, release the sides of the spring-form pan and list away the sides revealing your perfect cake!
  • Top this gluten-free cake however you’d like! I finished mine off with a generous dollop of coconut white cream and some fresh berries. This cake would also taste great with your favorite frosting, or a simple sprinkling of powdered sugar!
  • If you like cinnamon, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to the batter.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months—just thaw it at room temperature before serving.

gluten-free almond flour cake sliced on a plate with powdered sugar on top.
4 from 6 votes

Perfect Almond Flour Cake

Perfectly light and fluffy almond flour cake! A totally irresistible dessert that’s grain-free, gluten-free, and dairy-free. This simple cake comes together in one bowl, with only a handful of simple ingredients.
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups almond flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest optional, but recommended
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds optional, for topping

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and grease an 8-inch cake pan.
  • Beat together the eggs and sugar with either a hand or stand mixer on high speed until pale and thick, about 5 minutes.
  • Add in the almond flour, lemon zest (if using) and baking powder. Beat for another 30 seconds to one minute, until batter is just combined.
  • Transfer the batter to your prepared cake pan and if you'd like, top with an even layer of sliced almonds (for extra crunch and decoration). Bake the cake 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted down the center of the cake comes out clean.
  • Remove cake from the pan and let cool completely before garnishing and serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 200kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 7.5g | Fat: 13g | Sugar: 13g

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30 Minutes or Less

6-Ingredient Healthy Twix Bars (gluten-free & vegan!)

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healthy twix bars stacked on top of each other with flaky salt on top.

Healthier sweet treats are kinda my thing. I recently set out to recreate as many of my favorite classic candy recipes to make them healthier, gluten-free, and dairy-free. My 4-ingredient healthy snickers have been a huge hit, and so have my 4-ingredient date caramels. I even made a healthy homemade butterfingers recipe for halloween last year and OMG they were gone in three days! These healthy twix bars were the obvious next choice because, well – who doesn’t love a twix?! This healthy twix bars recipe absolutely nail the classic flavors and textures we’re all addicted to when it comes to the traditional candy bar. A buttery shortbread crust, smooth and perfectly sweet caramel, and crispy chocolate shell make the perfect quick and easy sweet candy-inspired treat!

overhead image of healthy twix bars on parchment paper with flaky sea salt on top.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Made with wholesome ingredients – No refined sugars, artificial flavors, or preservatives.
  • Gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free – Perfect for various dietary needs.
  • Easy to make – Just a few simple steps, no complicated techniques required.
  • Rich, chewy, and delicious – Just like the classic Twix bars but with a healthier twist!

What You’ll Need to Make Homemade Healthy Twix Bars

  • Almond Flour – Creates a light, buttery shortbread base while keeping the recipe gluten-free. I buy my almond flour in bulk on Amazon!
  • Coconut Oil – Used in all three layers for moisture, structure, and a silky texture.
  • Maple Syrup – Naturally sweetens the bars while adding a subtle caramel-like flavor.
  • Vanilla Extract – Enhances the sweetness and deepens the flavors of both the shortbread and caramel layers.
  • Peanut Butter – Provides a rich, creamy caramel-like texture without any refined sugar. Swap with almond or cashew butter for a different flavor.
  • Chocolate Chips – The perfect finishing touch for that classic Twix-like chocolate layer. Use dark chocolate for a richer taste!
close up image of healthy twix bars with flaky salt on top.

How to Make Healthy Twix Bars

  1. Prepare the Shortbread: Mix almond flour, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Press into a lined 9×9-inch pan and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes. Let cool.
  2. Make the Caramel Layer: Heat peanut butter, coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract in a saucepan until smooth and bubbly. Pour over the shortbread layer and refrigerate until set.
  3. Melt the Chocolate: Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil, then spread over the caramel layer. Refrigerate again until firm.
  4. Slice & Enjoy! Remove from the fridge, cut into bars, and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use regular flour? – No, almond flour is key to the texture and gluten-free nature of this recipe.
  • Can I make these nut-free? – Yes! Swap almond flour for oat flour and use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
  • What makes these “healthy”? – These bars use natural sweeteners, healthy fats, and no processed ingredients.
  • How do I store them? – Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months!
healthy twix bar with a bite taken out.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • For a crispier shortbread layer, bake for an extra 2-3 minutes.
  • Want a thicker caramel layer? Add an extra ¼ cup of peanut butter!
  • Use dark chocolate for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
healthy twix bars stacked on top of each other with flaky salt on top.
5 from 5 votes

6-Ingredient Healthy Twix Bars

These homemade Healthy Twix Bars are made with just six simple ingredients, featuring a buttery almond flour shortbread, creamy peanut butter caramel, and a rich dark chocolate topping. They’re gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free, and naturally sweetened, making them a better-for-you sweet treat!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 13 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes
Servings: 16 servings

Equipment

  • 1 9×9-inch baking pan
  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 small saucepan

Ingredients

For the shortbread layer:

  • 2 cups almond flour
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the caramel layer:

  • 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter unsweetened
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the chocolate layer:

  • 1 cup chocolate chips I used dark chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • flaky salt for topping (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • Add all shortbread ingredients to a large bowl and mix to combine. Then, transfer the crust to your prepared baking pan and press the crust down into an even layer over the base of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly golden brown around the edges. Leave the shortbread to cool for at least 10 minutes before adding the caramel.
  • Make the caramel layer by adding all caramel ingredients to a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk the mixture together, and continue whisking as it heats up and starts to gently bubble.After 2 minutes, remove the caramel from the heat and pour over the cooled shortbread crust. Transfer the baking pan to the fridge to allow the peanut butter to set for at least 30 minutes and up to one hour. Once the caramel is completely set and firm to the touch, make the chocolate layer.
  • To make the chocolate layer, melt together the chocolate chips and coconut oil in either the microwave or over a double boiler until completely smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel and gently spread into an even layer. Transfer the pan back to the fridge to set one last time for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate has hardened. Remove the twix bars from the fridge, then remove them from the pan and cut into 16 “full size” bars or 32 “mini” bars.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bar | Calories: 218kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 17g | Sugar: 11g
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