Easy Protein Cookie Dough

This protein cookie dough is the perfect quick treat when you want something sweet and satisfying without the wait or guilt. It packs a punch of protein and can be whipped up in minutes, making it a great go-to for busy days or post-workout fuel.

This came together on a busy afternoon when I needed a quick snack and now it’s become my reliable pick-me-up whenever I crave cookie dough but want a healthier option.

Ingredients

• Protein powder: One third cup of protein powder vanilla flavor is best for sweetness and smoothness choose a high-quality brand for better texture
• Peanut butter: One and a half tablespoons of peanut butter creamy works best for easy mixing swap almond or cashew butter for a different nutty twist
• Greek yogurt: One and a half to two tablespoons of Greek yogurt provides moisture and tang use thick, strained yogurt for a creamier dough
• Chocolate chips: Two teaspoons of sugar-free chocolate chips add that classic cookie dough chocolatey bite
• Salt: A pinch of salt balances the flavors especially if your peanut butter is unsalted
• Maple syrup: One to two teaspoons of maple syrup optional for extra sweetness and depth choose pure maple syrup for natural flavor

Instructions

Build The Base:

If your peanut butter is thick, warm it gently in the microwave for about 15 to 30 seconds until it softens to a creamy consistency. This makes mixing much easier and ensures smooth dough.

Combine The Main Ingredients:

In a medium bowl mix your protein powder with the softened peanut butter and start with one and a half tablespoons of Greek yogurt. Add the maple syrup now if you want it sweeter.

Mix To The Right Consistency:

Use a fork or spatula to blend everything together slowly. Depending on your protein powder, you might need to add a little more Greek yogurt bit by bit until the dough is soft but holds together well like traditional cookie dough.

Add Chocolate Chips:

Fold the chocolate chips gently into the dough, keeping that sweet little texture in each bite.

Chill For Texture Or Eat Now:

You can enjoy this immediately if you want a soft dough or refrigerate for about thirty minutes. Chilling firms it up closer to the cookie dough consistency you know and love.

Greek yogurt is my favorite part it gives a creamy texture and tang that balances the nut butter and protein nicely. Once I made this for a friend who was skeptical and they ended up loving it as a dessert alternative to cookies.

Storage Tips

Keep leftover dough in an airtight container in the fridge up to three days. If it gets too firm just let it sit at room temperature a few minutes before eating.

Ingredient Swaps

Try almond or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor. Use chocolate or berry flavored protein powders to change the taste profile. Coconut yogurt can replace Greek yogurt for a dairy-free option.

Serving Ideas

Serve with fresh fruit slices or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for a more indulgent snack. Spoon onto celery sticks or whole grain crackers for unexpected mini treats. Top with a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the sweetness.

This easy protein cookie dough is a great healthy treat to satisfy your sweet tooth in minutes.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What protein powder works best here?

Vanilla-flavored protein powders blend smoothly and add subtle sweetness, enhancing the dough's flavor and texture.

→ Can I substitute the peanut butter?

Yes, almond or cashew butter are great alternatives that offer different nutty profiles and work well with the other ingredients.

→ Why add Greek yogurt to the mix?

Greek yogurt helps bind the dough and adds a creamy texture without extra sweetness, balancing the dry protein powder.

→ Is chilling necessary before eating?

Chilling firms up the dough for a more familiar texture, but it can also be enjoyed right after mixing for a soft bite.

→ How do chocolate chips affect the dough?

Chocolate chips add bursts of sweetness and texture contrast, complementing the creamy and nutty base of the dough.

→ Can maple syrup be omitted?

Yes, maple syrup is optional and adds subtle sweetness. You can skip it or adjust based on your preferred taste.