Why You’ll Love this Protein Brownies Recipe
If you’re looking for a guilt-free treat that satisfies your sweet tooth, you’ll love this protein brownies recipe.
I can’t get enough of these brownies because they’re not only delicious but also packed with protein. They’re perfect for a post-workout snack or just a midday pick-me-up.
The best part? I don’t feel guilty indulging in them! They’re moist, rich, and full of flavor, making them a satisfying alternative to traditional brownies.
Plus, I love how easy they’re to whip up. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be hooked on this healthier dessert option!
Ingredients of Protein Brownies
When it comes to whipping up a batch of delicious protein brownies, having the right ingredients is key. These ingredients not only make the brownies taste amazing, but they also pack in some serious nutrition. I mean, who doesn’t love indulging in a treat that’s as good for you as it’s tasty?
In this section, we’ll break down everything you need to gather before diving into the baking process. Grab your shopping list, and let’s get to it!
Ingredients for Protein Brownies:
- 2 scoops protein powder
- 3/4 cup oat flour
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 dash of salt
- 2 egg whites
- 3/4 cup applesauce
- 3 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Now, let’s talk a bit about these ingredients. First off, you might be wondering about oat flour. It’s a fantastic gluten-free option that adds a nutty flavor and keeps these brownies moist.
If you don’t have oat flour handy, you can totally make your own by blending rolled oats in a blender until they’re fine. Easy, right?
And don’t fret too much about the sugar; three tablespoons is just enough to sweeten things up without going overboard. Plus, the applesauce is a great way to replace some of the fat while keeping things tender.
How to Make Protein Brownies
Now that we’ve gathered all our ingredients for these tasty protein brownies, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and get baking. First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Trust me, you don’t want to forget this step and end up with a delicious brownie batter sitting around while your oven takes its sweet time warming up.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 scoops of protein powder, 3/4 cup of oat flour, 3 tablespoons of sugar, 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder, and a dash of salt. I mean, who doesn’t love a little dash of flavor? Whisk these dry ingredients together until everything is evenly mixed. You want to make sure there are no clumps because clumps are for, well, other kinds of baking, not brownies.
Then, in a separate bowl, grab those 2 egg whites and whisk them until they’re frothy. This might take a minute or two, but it’s worth it for that lovely texture. Next, add in 3/4 cup of applesauce, 3 tablespoons of peanut butter, and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract. Stir it all together until you have a smooth mixture.
Now, gently fold your wet ingredients into the dry ones. Don’t overmix; just combine them until you see no more dry flour. It’s okay if the batter looks a bit thick; that’s just how we like it.
Then, pour the mixture into a greased or lined baking pan—maybe 8×8 inches is a good size? Spread it out evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges look set, but the center might still seem a tad soft.
Let them cool for a few minutes before cutting into squares. And there you have it—your very own protein brownies! Enjoy them as a post-workout treat or a midday snack, and don’t be afraid to share (or not; I won’t judge).
Protein Brownies Substitutions & Variations
While I love the classic protein brownies recipe, it’s always fun to mix things up with some substitutions and variations.
You can easily swap oat flour for almond flour if you want a nutty flavor. For a vegan option, replace egg whites with flaxseed meal mixed with water.
If you’re not a fan of peanut butter, try almond or sunflower seed butter instead. Adding in chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips can elevate the texture, too.
Experimenting with different protein powders, like chocolate or vanilla, can also change the flavor profile.
Enjoy creating your perfect protein brownie!
What to Serve with Protein Brownies
Although protein brownies are delicious on their own, pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience.
I love serving my brownies with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast and a boost of protein. A drizzle of melted dark chocolate adds a rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, bring a revitalizing tartness that complements the sweetness perfectly. For a little crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts or seeds on top.
These simple additions not only enhance the taste but also make for a more visually appealing dessert. Enjoy experimenting!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your protein brownies turn out perfectly every time, I recommend keeping a few key tips in mind.
First, don’t overmix the batter; gently combine the ingredients for a fudgy texture. If you prefer a sweeter brownie, feel free to adjust the sugar or add chocolate chips.
Remember to let them cool completely before cutting to avoid crumbling. For a fun twist, try adding nuts or a swirl of nut butter on top before baking.
Finally, store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Enjoy experimenting with flavors to find your perfect protein brownie!