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30 Minutes or Less

Healthy Strawberry Peanut Butter Cups

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a healthy strawberry peanut butter cup with a bite taken out.

I went on a sort of healthier candy spree last fall with my healthy snickers recipe, 4 ingredient date caramels, and healthy homemade butterfingers. All of which are delicious, but I was missing one of the most popular (and one of my personal faves) candies – peanut butter cups! And honestly, had I known making your own homemade healthy peanut butter cups was this easy, I’d have been making them for yearssss. Just chocolate (I used dark, but use whatever you prefer!), peanut butter, almond flour, coconut oil, and just a touch of maple syrup is all you’ll need for this super easy and no-bake dessert recipe!

healthy strawberry peanut butter cups on a sheet of parchment paper.

Why You’ll Love These Healthy Strawberry Peanut Butter Cups

  • Made with just 5 wholesome ingredients, these peanut butter cups are easy, no-bake, and naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
  • The creamy peanut butter filling paired with rich dark chocolate and a touch of strawberry makes them a perfectly indulgent yet nourishing treat.
  • Customizable to suit your dietary needs – refined sugar-free, nut-free, or vegan – without compromising flavor.

What Makes This Recipe Healthy?

Unlike traditional peanut butter cups loaded with refined sugars and additives, this recipe uses natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey. The inclusion of almond flour adds a dose of healthy fats and fiber, while the use of dark chocolate chips provides antioxidants. By choosing unsweetened peanut butter, you control the sweetness and ensure a treat that’s both delicious and nourishing!

close up image of a healthy strawberry peanut butter cup with a bite taken out.

Can I Use a Different Sweetener?

Absolutely! If you prefer a different natural sweetener, options like agave nectar or coconut sugar work well in this recipe. Keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary, so adjust to taste. For a sugar-free version, consider using a monk fruit sweetener or stevia, but be sure to check the conversion rates as they differ from traditional sweeteners.​

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make it Nut-Free: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and almond flour with oat flour to eliminate nuts while maintaining texture and flavor.​
  • Make it Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free chocolate chips to ensure the entire recipe remains free from dairy products.​
  • Make it Refined Sugar-Free: Opt for dark chocolate chips sweetened with coconut sugar or stevia, and use maple syrup or honey as your sweetener of choice.​
a healthy strawberry peanut butter cup with a bite taken out.
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Healthy Strawberry Peanut Butter Cups

These healthy strawberry peanut butter cups are a delicious, no-bake treat made with just 5 simple ingredients. Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, they’re perfect for a quick snack or a better-for-you dessert. Easy to customize and bursting with sweet, chocolatey flavor, they’re the ultimate healthy twist on a classic favorite.
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes
Servings: 16 servings

Equipment

  • 2 small bowls
  • 1 mini muffin pan

Ingredients

For the chocolate layer:

  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil

For the peanut butter filling:

  • 1/2 cup peanut butter unsweetened
  • 2-3 tablespoons almond flour or 1-2 tablespoons coconut flour
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey

Instructions

  • Line a mini muffin pan with mini liners.
  • Melt together the chocolate chips and coconut oil in either the microwave or over a double boiler until completely melted and smooth.
  • Once the chocolate is melted, pour about 1 teaspoon of melted chocolate into the bottom of each liner and use a spoon to spread the chocolate around to cover the entire bottom of the liner. Once all liners are lined with chocolate, transfer your muffin pan to the freezer to set and set the remaining melted chocolate aside.
  • While the chocolate sets, add all peanut butter filling ingredients to a bowl and stir together until smooth, slightly thick, and combined.
  • Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the peanut butter filling mixture into the palm of your hands and roll it into a ball, then flatten it slightly to form a disk. Remove the muffin tin from the freezer and place one disk on top of each cup lined with chocolate. Repeat this process until all cups have been filled with peanut butter.
  • Pour 1-2 teaspoons of melted chocolate over each peanut butter cup, making sure you completely cover the peanut butter inside.Once all peanut butter cups are filled with chocolate, transfer the pan back into the freezer for 10-15 minutes or until the chocolate is completely set.Remove the strawberry peanut butter cups from the freezer, transfer to an airtight container and store in the fridge or enjoy right away!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 120kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 8g | Sugar: 6g
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30 Minutes or Less

Chia Seed Protein Pudding (30g protein!)

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chia seed protein pudding in a glass jar with fresh blueberries and homemade granola on top.

Some of my most requested recipes are for healthy high-protein snacks! And while I have quite a few already – high protein snack boxes, single serve protein cookie, and 5 healthy protein smoothies – I, too, am always looking for more. I actually started making this chia seed protein pudding for my husband who was tired of our same old protein snacks and loved that this tasted like dessert, but in healthier high-protein form!

I love topping my chia pudding with a scoop of peanut butter, a sprinkling of my homemade granola, and whatever fresh or frozen fruit we have on-hand. It’s such a quick and easy grab-and-go protein snack, easily made dairy-free and packed with over 30 grams of protein. OH! And it’s delicious, too. 😉

Why You’ll Love This Chia Protein Pudding

  • High-Protein: With over 30g of protein per serving, it’s a satisfying and energizing option to start your day of get you through that afternoon slump!
  • Minimal Ingredients: You only need 4 (or 5 if you want it a little sweet!) ingredients, most of which you probably already have at home.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Make it once and enjoy it all week! It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
close up image of chia seed protein pudding in a jar with granola and fresh berries on top.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Chia Seeds: These tiny super seeds expand in liquid to create that signature pudding texture. They’re also packed with fiber and omega-3s.
  • Vanilla Protein Powder: Adds a delicious flavor boost and turns this pudding into a protein powerhouse. Unsweetened works best so you can control the sweetness in this recipe!
  • Greek Yogurt (or Dairy-Free Yogurt): Adds creaminess, thickness, a boost of probiotics, and extra protein. Use non-dairy yogurt to keep it dairy-free and vegan!
  • Milk (or Non-Dairy Milk): Any milk will work here – almond, oat, coconut, or regular dairy milk. Choose what fits your dietary preferences.
  • Maple Syrup (Optional): Just a touch adds natural sweetness without overwhelming the flavor.

How to Make Chia Seed Protein Pudding

  1. Add all ingredients to an 8-ounce jar or container and stir to combine.
  2. Secure the lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight).
  3. Before serving, stir again to ensure everything is evenly mixed. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy!
overhead image of chia seed protein pudding with granola and fresh berries on top.

Flavor Variations

  • Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding: Use chocolate protein powder and top with cacao nibs.
  • Very Berry: Stir in a handful of mashed berries or layer with a berry compote.
  • Peanut Butter Banana: Add 1 tablespoon peanut butter and a few banana slices on top. YUM!

Topping Ideas

Top your protein pudding with:

  • Fresh fruit (berries, banana, mango)
  • Nut butters
  • Granola (I topped mine with my homemade granola!)
  • Coconut flakes
  • Cacao nibs or dark chocolate shavings

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make it Dairy-Free: Use plant-based yogurt and non-dairy milk like almond, oat, or coconut.
  • Make it Vegan: Use dairy-free yogurt and a vegan protein powder.

Storage Instructions

Store chia protein pudding in an airtight jar or container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, and top with fresh ingredients right before eating for best texture and flavor.

chia seed protein pudding in a glass jar with fresh blueberries and homemade granola on top.
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4-Ingredient Chia Seed Protein Pudding

This easy chia seed protein pudding is the perfect make-ahead breakfast or snack packed with over 30 grams of protein per serving! Made with just 4 simple ingredients and ready in minutes, it’s creamy, customizable, and keeps you full for hours. Whether you’re fueling post-workout or starting your morning strong, this chia pudding will quickly become a staple in your healthy routine.
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 1 serving

Equipment

  • 1 8 ounce jar

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons chia seeds
  • 1 scoop (25 grams) vanilla protein powder
  • 1/2 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional)
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or non-dairy yogurt
  • 1/2 cup milk or non-dairy milk

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to an 8-ounce jar or container and stir to combine, then secure with a lid. Place the chia pudding in the fridge for at least 2 hours and up to 3 days, then remove from the fridge and give it another stir before serving. Top with whatever you’d like!

Notes

Nutrition info may vary depending on the brand of ingredients used. The above nutrition info was calculated without the maple syrup and toppings.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 295kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 11g | Sugar: 3g
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Dairy-Free

5-Ingredient Triple Berry Crisp with Frozen Berries

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Overhead image of triple berry crisp with frozen berries in a baking dish with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

Everyone needs a good berry crisp recipe in their back pocket! I’ve made a few berry crisps in my day, but to be completely honest – none were quite right. They were either too dry, didn’t have enough berries, or overly sweet. But this triple berry crisp recipe?? Well… I don’t mean to brag but, she’s just PERFECT! Made with 5 ingredients, in one bowl, with frozen berries (so you can bake it year-round!). I drew some inspo from my healthy apple crisp which was a huge hit last fall! And also my 4 ingredient peach cobbler which I can’t wait to break back out this upcoming peach season.

Why You’ll LOVE This Triple Berry Crisp with Frozen Berries

  • Super Easy to Make: With just 5 simple ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly for a stress-free dessert.​
  • Versatile and Adaptable: Easily customize the recipe to suit gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, or vegan diets without compromising on flavor.​
  • Deliciously Healthy: Made with wholesome ingredients, this crisp offers a guilt-free indulgence that’s both satisfying and nutritious.​
close up image of triple berry crisp with frozen berries in a baking dish.

Can I Use Fresh Berries?

Yes, you can use fresh berries in this recipe. However, frozen berries are convenient and available year-round, providing consistent quality and flavor. If using fresh berries, you may need to adjust the baking time slightly, as they release less juice than frozen ones.

Can I Make Ahead and Freeze This Recipe?

Absolutely! This berry crisp can be prepared ahead of time and frozen either before or after baking:​

  • Before Baking: Assemble the crisp, cover it tightly, and freeze. When ready to bake, remove from the freezer, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and bake as directed.​
  • After Baking: Allow the crisp to cool completely, then cover and freeze. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.​
triple berry crisp with frozen berries on a plate with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make it Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats and gluten-free all-purpose flour or almond flour for the crisp topping.
  • Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with a non-dairy alternative like coconut oil or a plant-based butter.​
  • Make it Nut-Free: Ensure all ingredients, including oats and flour, are free from cross-contamination with nuts.​
  • Make it Vegan: Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a vegan-friendly sugar.
Overhead image of triple berry crisp with frozen berries in a baking dish with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
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5-Ingredient Triple Berry Crisp with Frozen Berries

Effortless and delicious 5-Ingredient Triple Berry Crisp, crafted with frozen mixed berries and a simple, wholesome crisp topping! This fruit crisp is not only simple to make, but also easy to adapt to a variety of diets, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious and healthy dessert!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Equipment

  • 1 9-inch baking dish
  • 1 large bowl

Ingredients

For the berries:

  • 4 cups frozen mixed berries
  • 1/4 cup cane sugar or coconut sugar
  • 1/4 cup gluten-free all purpose flour or regular all purpose flour
  • 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice optional
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional

For the crisp:

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 3/4 cup gluten-free all purpose flour or almond flour
  • 1/2 cup cane sugar or coconut sugar
  • 6 ounces butter cut into 1-inch cubes

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit.
  • Add all berry ingredients to a 9-inch baking dish and toss together until evenly coated, then spread the berries into an even layer around the dish.
  • Add all crisp ingredients to a large bowl. Use a fork to mix together, until a crumbly mixture forms. Sprinkled the crisp topping evenly over the berries.
  • Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the berries are super soft, then let cool slightly before serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. YUM!
    berry crisp with frozen berries step 3

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 18g | Sugar: 24g
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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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