Are you ready to indulge in a delicious treat that won’t derail your healthy eating goals? I know I am! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Cookies & Cream Protein Brownies. These brownies are not only scrumptious but also packed with protein, making them a perfect snack for any time of the day. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to satisfy that sweet tooth without the guilt. And if you’re looking for easy pasta recipes to pair with your brownies for a delightful meal, I’ve got you covered!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously rich and chocolatey flavor
- High in protein, thanks to the protein powder and black beans
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights
- Great for meal prep and healthy snacking
- Kid-friendly and a fun way to get them involved in the kitchen
Ingredients
To whip up these delightful brownies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup chocolate protein powder
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup almond butter or peanut butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup crushed cookies (like Oreos)
- Optional: chocolate chips for extra indulgence
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Making these brownies is a breeze! Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking pan.
- In a food processor, combine the black beans, protein powder, cocoa powder, honey, almond butter, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Blend until smooth.
- Fold in the crushed cookies and chocolate chips if using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the brownies cool before cutting them into squares.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your brownies turn out perfectly:
- Make sure to rinse the black beans thoroughly to remove any excess sodium.
- For a fudgier texture, don’t overbake the brownies. Keep an eye on them as they approach the 20-minute mark.
- Feel free to experiment with different protein powder flavors to customize your brownies!
- If you want to make these brownies even more decadent, top them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.
How to Serve
These Cookies & Cream Protein Brownies are perfect on their own, but why not elevate your dessert experience? Here are some serving suggestions:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a delightful contrast.
- Pair them with a glass of cold almond milk or your favorite plant-based milk.
- For a fun twist, crumble them over a bowl of creamy garlic pasta for a unique flavor combination!
Make Ahead and Storage
These brownies are great for meal prep! Here’s how to store them:
- Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
- You can also freeze the brownies! Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for up to 3 months.
Now that you have this easy recipe in your arsenal, you can enjoy a sweet treat that fits into your healthy lifestyle. And if you’re looking for more quick family dinners or 30-minute meals, don’t forget to check out my collection of weeknight dinner ideas that include creamy garlic pasta and other easy pasta recipes. Happy baking!
Cookies & Cream Protein Brownies
Ingredients
Brownie Mix
- 3 large Whole Eggs
- 2 scoops Protein Powder (Chocolate)
- 0.25 cup Unsweetened Apple Sauce
- 0.25 cup Sweetener
- 15.5 ounces Black Beans (Reduced Sodium)
- 0.25 cup Rolled Oats
- 2 tablespoons Coconut Oil
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 0.25 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
- 0.25 cup Unsweetened Apple Sauce
- 0.5 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 2 tablespoons Sweetener
- 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Fat Free)
- 2 servings Mini Cookies (Oreos)
Instructions
- Combine all brownie ingredients in a blender and process until smooth.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Mix topping ingredients (excluding mini cookies) in a bowl and spread over the batter.
- Crush mini cookies and sprinkle on top, then bake at 350°F (176°C) for 30-35 minutes.
