1 Point Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Cookies
These delicious Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Cookies are a guilt-free treat that satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping you on track with your health goals. Each cookie is just 1 point (based on common point systems) and packed with protein to keep you full and energized. Perfect for a post-workout snack, midday pick-me-up, or a light dessert!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chocolate protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter (natural, no added sugar)
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup (sugar-free option for lower points)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt (optional)
- 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips (optional, use sugar-free for lower points)
Instructions:
Preheat and Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix peanut butter, applesauce, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Mix Everything Together:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until well combined. The dough will be thick.
Shape the Cookies:
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and gently flatten them with your fingers or a fork.
Bake:
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the cookies are set. They may appear soft but will firm up as they cool.
Cool and Enjoy:
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings:
- Makes approximately 20 cookies
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
Nutritional Information (per cookie):
- Calories: ~85
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g (varies depending on sweetener choice)
- Points: ~1 (based on most point systems, may vary slightly by brand and ingredients)
Benefits:
- High Protein: Great for muscle recovery and keeping you full longer.
- Low Sugar: Using natural sweeteners keeps these cookies low in sugar.
- Satisfies Cravings: The chocolate-peanut butter combo satisfies sweet cravings without the guilt.
- Easy to Make: Minimal ingredients and quick prep time make this an ideal healthy snack.
Tips and Notes:
- Consistency Tips: The dough should be thick but manageable. If too dry, add a little more applesauce or a splash of almond milk.
- Sweetener Alternatives: Substitute honey with a low-calorie sweetener like Stevia or Erythritol for even lower points.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.
- Optional Add-ins: Mix in some chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or additional chocolate chips for variety.
Q&A:
Can I use a different nut butter?
Yes! Almond butter or sunflower seed butter works well, but it may slightly alter the flavor and nutritional content.Can I make this vegan?
Absolutely! Use a plant-based protein powder and maple syrup instead of honey.Why are my cookies dry?
Make sure not to overbake. If the dough is too dry before baking, add a little more applesauce or almond milk.Can I omit the chocolate chips?
Yes, for an even lower point cookie, omit the chocolate chips or use sugar-free chips.
Enjoy your guilt-free treat!
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Cookies are perfect for anyone looking to satisfy their sweet cravings while staying on track with their fitness and health goals. Happy baking!