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protein

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30 Minutes or Less

High-Protein Cookie Dough Recipe

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5 ingredient edible protein chocolate chip cookie dough in a small cup with a spoon.

This 5-ingredient protein cookie dough is a healthy, gluten-free, and dairy-free treat packed with protein and sweetened with maple syrup. Ready in minutes, it’s perfect for a post-workout snack or healthier dessert. Customize with your favorite mix-ins for a quick, delicious, and indulgent treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Made with just 6 simple ingredients, it’s a healthier take on traditional cookie dough.
  • Packed with protein, making it perfect for a post-workout treat, quick snack, or fun dessert option.
  • Gluten-free and refined sugar-free, catering to various dietary preferences.
  • Quick and easy to make—no baking required, and ready in just minutes!
chocolate chip protein cookie dough on a spoon.

Toppings and Variations

  • Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate or nut butter on top for extra decadence.
  • Add-Ins: Mix in chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or dried fruit for a fun twist.
  • Seasonal Flavors: Sprinkle in cinnamon, pumpkin spice, or a dash of peppermint extract to suit the season.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

Make it Dairy-Free: Use non-dairy greek yogurt, and ensure your protein powder and chocolate chips are dairy-free.

Make it Keto: Replace the maple syrup with a keto-friendly liquid sweetener like monk fruit syrup. Use sugar-free chocolate chips for a low-carb treat.

Storage Instructions

Store your protein cookie dough in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If you prefer a firmer texture, chill it for an hour before serving. For longer storage, freeze individual portions and thaw as needed.

5 ingredient edible protein chocolate chip cookie dough in a small cup with a spoon.
4.84 from 6 votes

5 Ingredient Edible Protein Cookie Dough

This 5-ingredient protein cookie dough is a healthy and gluten-free treat packed with protein and sweetened with maple syrup. Ready in minutes, it’s perfect for a post-workout snack or healthier dessert. Customize with your favorite mix-ins for a quick, delicious, and indulgent treat!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Equipment

  • 1 small bowl

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup almond flour or oat flour
  • 2 scoops (1 serving) vanilla protein powder
  • 2 tablespoons peanut, almond, or cashew butter
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 3 tablespoons chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Add all the ingredients except the chocolate chips to a large bowl and stir to combine.
  • Then, fold in the chocolate chips and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 200kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 6g
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30 Minutes or Less

3-Ingredient Protein Pancakes Recipe

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close up image of a stack of protein pancakes.

These 3-ingredient protein pancakes are the perfect way to kickstart your day! Packed with protein, naturally sweetened, and ready in minutes, they’re the ultimate healthy breakfast. Whether you’re fueling up post-workout or just want a quick and easy recipe, these pancakes have you covered!

maple syrup being poured over a stack of pancakes.

I’ve been making these protein pancakes for years! They’re hands-down my favorite way to start the day. Loaded with protein, super easy to make, and totally delicious. Enjoy these pancakes with a healthy smoothie or collagen hot chocolate for even more protein!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple Ingredients: Just three pantry staples are all you need – no complicated shopping lists here!
  • High in Protein: These pancakes are naturally high in protein, helping you stay full and energized throughout the day.
  • Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free: Perfect for those with dietary restrictions or anyone looking for a wholesome, healthy option.
  • Quick & Easy: Ready in under 10 minutes from start to finish!

What You’ll Need to Make Protein Pancakes

Banana: Bananas add natural sweetness and act as the base for these pancakes, keeping them moist and tender. Use a ripe banana for the best flavor.

Eggs: Eggs provide structure and richness, ensuring the pancakes hold together and cook evenly.

Protein Powder: The secret to making these pancakes protein-packed! Vanilla protein powder adds a touch of sweetness and a boost of nutrition. I use Aloha Plant-Based Vanilla Protein Powder (click THIS LINK for 20% off Aloha), but any protein powder will work.

3 ingredient protein pancakes stacked on a plate and cut into.

How to Make Protein Pancakes

  1. Blend the Batter: Add the banana, eggs, and protein powder to a blender. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  2. Preheat Your Skillet: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with oil or cooking spray.
  3. Cook the Pancakes: Pour ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the edges look dry and the bottom is golden brown. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  4. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the skillet and serve warm with your favorite toppings!

Toppings and Variations

Take these protein pancakes to the next level with your favorite toppings:

  • Fresh Fruit: Add a pop of freshness with sliced bananas, berries, or diced mango.
  • Nut Butter: Drizzle almond, peanut, or sunflower seed butter for an extra dose of healthy fats.
  • Maple Syrup or Honey: For a touch of natural sweetness.
  • Chocolate Chips or Cacao Nibs: Sprinkle in some indulgence!
  • Coconut Flakes: Add a tropical twist with unsweetened coconut flakes.
3 ingredient protein pancakes on a plate with butter and maple syrup.

Can I Meal Prep These Protein Pancakes?

Absolutely! These protein pancakes are perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to do it:

  • Refrigerate: Store cooked pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on a skillet before serving.
  • Freeze: Let the pancakes cool completely, then stack them with parchment paper between each one. Freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a toaster or microwave.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

This recipe is:

  • Healthy: Packed with natural ingredients and free from refined sugar.
  • Gluten-Free: Perfect for those avoiding gluten.
  • Dairy-Free: Ideal for lactose-intolerant individuals or anyone avoiding dairy.
  • High-Protein: A great way to fuel your day or recover after a workout.
  • Made with Just 3 Ingredients: Simplicity at its best!
close up image of a stack of protein pancakes.
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3-Ingredient Protein Pancakes

These 3-ingredient protein pancakes are the perfect way to kickstart your day! Packed with protein, naturally sweetened, and ready in minutes, they’re the ultimate healthy breakfast. Whether you’re fueling up post-workout or just want a quick and easy recipe, these pancakes have you covered!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2 servings

Equipment

  • 1 blender
  • 1 non-stick skillet

Ingredients

  • 1 large banana
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 scoops (1/3 cup) protein powder

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
  • Add some oil to a nonstick skillet and place it over medium heat on the stove.
  • Once the skillet is hot, pour ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the edges of the pancake start to look dry and the bottom side of the pancake is golden brown. Carefully flip each pancake and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side.
  • Remove the pancakes from the skillet, and repeat this process until no more pancake batter remains. Transfer the pancakes to a plate and serve warm with whatever toppings you’d like!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 242kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 7g | Sugar: 8g
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Breakfast

5 Healthy and DELICIOUS Smoothie Recipes

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all 5 smoothies in cups with ice, blueberries, and almond milk on the side

Here are the 5 smoothie recipes I make every week! They’re SUPER healthy, incredibly delicious, and come together in only a few minutes. These healthy smoothies are the perfect quick, easy, and portable breakfast or snack!

all 5 smoothies lined up in glasses with toppings on each

How to Make a (Delicious) Smoothie

  • Pick your frozen fruits. Every smoothie recipe starts with a curated selection of frozen fruit. The frozen fruit is what you’ll taste the most of in your smoothie, so make sure it’s a combination you’ll love!
  • Add in some healthy fats. Now that you have your fruit, it’s time to round the nutrition out with a bit of healthy fats. Healthy fats will slow the digestion of the naturally occurring sugar in fruit, which will stabilize your blood sugar and provide you with a long-term source of energy to get you through the morning! My favorite healthy fats for smoothies are unsweetened almond butter, avocado, or hemp seeds.
  • Consider adding fresh or frozen vegetables. Depending on which vegetable you choose to add to your smoothie, you most likely won’t be able to taste it at all! Spinach is always a great addition, yielding very little flavor yet TONS of nutrients. Or, steamed then frozen cauliflower is a perfect way to not only add nutrients to a smoothie, but helps to thicken it up as well.
  • Give it a boost with protein and/or powdered superfoods. I prefer unsweetened, unflavored, and plant-based protein in my smoothie recipes. However, feel free to use whichever protein powder is your favorite! Though in my chocolate peanut butter protein smoothie recipe, I highly recommend the Aloha Chocolate Protein Powder – it’s so darn good.
  • Select a liquid to blend. Any liquid will work! Water or milk will yield the least flavor, allowing the fruit to shine. Or, you can use juice for an even sweeter and fruitier smoothie if you’d like.
all 5 smoothies in cups with ice, blueberries, and almond milk on the side

Blenders 101

I’ve owned many blenders in my day, though these two have stood out the most:

  • Vitamix: I know …she’s expensive, but boy is she incredible! I purchase a refurbished Vitamix a few years ago after saving up for one. And let me tell ya, it was worth EVERY penny. There’s nothing the Vitamix can’t blend, it’s truly the most powerful blender on the market. So if you’re looking to splurge, the Vitamix is definitely the blender for you!
  • Nutribullet: The nutribullet is great for everyday use! It takes up very little counter space, and is super easy to clean. I had my first nutribullet for almost 10 years before it eventually died on me. And that was after daily use in a four-person household! Also, the larger cup is enough to blend up to two serving sizes. I really can’t recommend the nutribullet enough, it’s fairly priced and comes with a one year warranty.

Turn Any Smoothie Into a Smoothie Bowl

Turn any of the below smoothie recipes into a smoothie bowl! It’s seriously so easy, all you’ll need to do is start with half the amount of liquid listed in the recipe. Then, continue to add more liquid as needed or until it’s perfectly thick and smooth. Once smooth, transfer your smoothie to a bowl and top with some fresh fruit, a handful of granola, and maybe even a scoop of almond or peanut butter!

Can I Add Protein Powder To These Smoothie Recipes?

Yes! Feel free to add a scoop of your favorite vanilla or unflavored protein powder to any of these smoothie recipes. I almost always throw in a scoop of either Aloha vanilla protein powder and/or Further Foods unflavored collagen to boost the protein and overall nutrients in my smoothies!

close-up overhead image of all 5 smoothie recipes
5 from 2 votes

5 Healthy and DELICIOUS Smoothie Recipes

Here are the 5 smoothie recipes I make constantly! They’re SUPER healthy, incredibly delicious, and come together in only a few minutes. These healthy smoothies are the perfect quick, easy, and portable breakfast or snack!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 serving

Equipment

  • blender

Ingredients

Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Smoothie

  • 1 1/2 frozen bananas
  • 1 scoop chocolate protein powder or 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tablespoon peanut butter
  • 1 cup almond milk, or regular milk

Strawberry Banana Smoothie

  • 1 frozen banana
  • 1/2 cup frozen strawberries
  • 1 tablespoon almond or peanut butter, optional
  • 1 cup milk, I used almond milk

Glowing Green Smoothie

  • 1 cup frozen mango
  • 1/2 cup frozen peaches
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 1/2 avocado
  • 1 cup water or milk

Tropical Smoothie

  • 1 cup frozen mango
  • 1/2 cup frozen pineapple
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt, unsweetened
  • 1 cup coconut milk

Very Berry Smoothie

  • 1/2 cup frozen cherries
  • 1 cup frozen mixed berries
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt, unsweetened
  • 1 cup water or milk

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
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30 Minutes or Less

Healthy Apple Pie Protein Smoothie

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Apple pie protein smoothie in a glass with whipped cream and cinnamon on top.

We brought our toddler apple picking last weekend and I currently swimming in apples over here! Just SO many apples. We of course made my healthy gluten-free apple crisp as soon as we got home. I’ve also been making caramelized apples to go over yogurt and oatmeal bowls (so good OMG!). But we still have more apples than we know what to do with! *Enter the apple pie smoothie.*

It’s true what they say… an apple a day keeps the doctor away! This smoothie starts with one whole apple, plain yogurt, and a scoop of protein powder for extra protein. The end results is a creamy and perfectly sweet high protein smoothie that tastes just like apple pie. It’s nutritious, deeply satisfying, and guaranteed to keep you full until your next meal!

apple pie smoothie in a glass with whipped cream.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This healthy apple pie protein smoothie is the perfect blend of flavors for a cozy, yet refreshing treat. It’s packed with protein, naturally sweetened, and full of fall flavors that make you feel like you’re enjoying a slice of apple pie. Plus, it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and takes just a few minutes to whip up!

What You Need to Make This Healthy Apple Pie Smoothie

Apple: A fresh apple adds natural sweetness, fiber, and a classic apple pie flavor.

Plain Yogurt (Non-Dairy): This adds creaminess and a boost of protein while keeping the smoothie dairy-free. I recommend Cocojune organic plain unsweetened coconut yogurt, it’s perfectly thick and creamy! Though you can use regular yogurt if preferred.

Milk (Almond Milk): This helps to blend the smoothie and adds a touch of nuttiness from the almond milk. Any milk can work depending on your dietary needs.

Unflavored Protein Powder or Collagen Peptides: Boosts protein content to keep you full longer. Unflavored protein powder blends seamlessly with the apple pie flavors. I use and love the Garden of Live vegan protein powder in most of my protein smoothies!

Rolled Oats or Almond Butter: Adds creaminess and thickness to the smoothie. You can swap with almond butter for extra creaminess or keep it grain-free.

Cinnamon: The spice that gives this smoothie its signature apple pie flavor.

Honey or Maple Syrup (Optional): For a little extra sweetness if needed, especially if your apple isn’t very sweet.

apple pie smoothie with a straw.

Can I Prep This Apple Pie Smoothie Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prep the ingredients the night before by chopping the apple and measuring out the other ingredients. Store them in the fridge, then blend them together in the morning. If you want to make the smoothie ahead of time, blend it and store it in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good shake before drinking!

Tips and Tricks For the Best Smoothie

  • For a thicker, creamier smoothie either use a frozen apple instead of a fresh one, or add half of a frozen banana to the blender along with all of the other ingredients.
  • Blend your smoothie for longer to ensure a smooth texture without any lumps.
  • Add ice cubes if you like your smoothie extra cold, or freeze the almond milk into cubes for added creaminess!

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make it Vegan: Use non-dairy yogurt and plant-based protein powder to make this smoothie 100% vegan.
  • Grain-Free: Skip the oats and use almond butter for added creaminess and healthy fats.
  • Make it Nut-Free: Substitute almond milk with oat milk, and use oats instead of almond butter. It’s that easy!
Apple pie protein smoothie in a glass with whipped cream and cinnamon on top.
5 from 1 vote

Apple Pie Protein Smoothie

This healthy apple pie protein smoothie is just what you need for a delicious, protein-packed, fall-inspired treat. It’s made with 7 simple ingredients, is gluten-free, dairy-free, high in protein, and can easily be adapted to fit any dietary needs!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 serving

Equipment

  • blender

Ingredients

  • 1 medium apple cored and cut
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt (I used non-dairy coconut yogurt)
  • 1/4 cup milk (I used almond milk)
  • 1 scoop unflavored protein powder or collagen peptides
  • 1 tablespoon rolled oats or 1/2 tablespoon almond butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 tablespoon honey or maple syrup optional

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth, then enjoy immediately!

Nutrition

Serving: 1smoothie | Calories: 313kcal | Carbohydrates: 47g | Protein: 22.5g | Fat: 6g | Sugar: 28g
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Dairy-Free

Pumpkin Protein Balls (gluten-free & dairy-free!)

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pumpkin protein balls on a plate with white chocolate drizzled on top.

These pumpkin protein balls were made pretty much just for my pumpkin-loving husband. I have never ever met anyone so obsessed with pumpkin pie than him. And after just one bite of these protein balls he said, “WOW these taste like PUMPKIN PIE!!!” and continued to eat the entire batch in two days… good thing they’re healthy, high in protein, and packed with collagen!

Also, lucky for my husband, his birthday is coming up! SO fitting that the man obsessed with pumpkin has a birthday in October. This year, he’s getting another batch (ehhh maybe a double bath) or these pumpkin protein balls, my gluten-free pumpkin coffee cake, and maybe even a healthy pumpkin spice latte if I’m feeling really generous. Happy almost birthday, my love!

overhead image of pumpkin protein balls on a plate with pumpkin spice on the side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These pumpkin protein balls are an easy, healthy snack packed with protein, perfect for on-the-go fuel or a post-workout boost. They’re made with just six simple ingredients, are naturally gluten-free, and can easily be adapted to fit various dietary needs, like being vegan or low carb.

What You Need to Make Pumpkin Protein Balls

  • Cashew Butter (or any nut/seed butter): Acts as the base of the recipe, adding creaminess, richness, and healthy fats.
  • Pumpkin Purée: Brings moisture and that classic fall flavor, while adding a dose of fiber and vitamins.
  • Almond Flour: Provides structure while keeping the recipe gluten-free and low in carbs.
  • Collagen Powder or Protein Powder: Boosts the protein content, but can be replaced with almond flour if you prefer. I use and love this collagen powder in my recipes!
  • Maple Syrup: Naturally sweetens the mixture without refined sugars.
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice: Adds the warm, cozy flavors of fall, making these protein balls irresistible.

Does Any Nut Butter Work?

Yes! While cashew butter is recommended for its creamy texture, any nut or seed butter—like almond, peanut, or sunflower seed butter—can be used as a substitute, making this recipe highly customizable.

What Collagen or Protein Powder Do You Use?

You can use unflavored collagen powder, any vanilla protein powder, or even extra almond flour for a protein powder-free option. Choose a protein powder that fits your dietary needs and flavor preferences.

pumpkin protein balls with white chocolate drizzle on a plate.

Storage Tips

Store these pumpkin protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to a month. Simply grab one from the freezer and enjoy!

Switch Up The Flavors of These Pumpkin Protein Balls

You can switch out the pumpkin puree for mashed banana or add mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chia seeds for extra texture and flavor.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Vegan: Use a plant-based protein powder and ensure your nut butter is dairy-free.
  • Nut-Free: Replace the almond flour with coconut flour or oat flour, and use sunflower seed butter in place of the cashew butter.
  • Low Sugar: Opt for a low-sugar protein powder or reduce the amount of maple syrup.
pumpkin protein balls on a plate with white chocolate drizzled on top.
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Pumpkin Protein Balls

These pumpkin protein balls are made with only six wholesome ingredients, gluten-free, dairy-free, and packed with protein for a healthy, and delicious snack! They're basically pumpkin pie in healthier, small bite form. I just know you're going to LOVE them!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chilling Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup cashew butter or any nut/seed butter
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 2 scoops unflavored collagen powder or protein powder, or an additional 1/4 cup of almond flour
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to a bowl and mix well until fully combined.
  • Scoop energy bites with a medium sized cookie scoop and arrange the scoops onto a plate. Transfer the plate to the freezer for at least 20 minutes, or until they firm up a bit.
  • Remove the plate from the freezer and rolls the scoops into balls with your hands. Drizzle with melted white chocolate, enjoy right away, or store in the freezer for later on!

Nutrition

Serving: 1ball | Calories: 144kcal | Carbohydrates: 8.5g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 10g | Sugar: 4.25g
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