This Strawberry Protein Cookie Dough is a fun and tasty treat! It’s easy to make with creamy peanut butter, protein powder, and sweet strawberries giving it a fruity twist.
Who says cookie dough should be baked? I love enjoying this right out of the bowl—it’s like a guilt-free snack! You’ll forget it’s healthy with every yummy bite! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Almond Flour: I really like almond flour for its nutty flavor and texture. If you can’t find it, oat flour works well too! Just blend rolled oats until fine, and you’ll have a great substitute!
Protein Powder: Vanilla protein powder adds a nice taste, but if you’re sensitive to flavors or allergies, you can use unflavored protein powder. Plant-based options work great too!
Peanut Butter: Natural peanut butter is creamy and delicious, but almond butter offers a different flavor. If nut allergies are a concern, sunflower seed butter is a tasty option as well.
Maple Syrup or Honey: I love the flavor of pure maple syrup, but honey works just as well. Alternatively, agave syrup or a sugar-free sweetener would be excellent choices if you’re watching sugar intake.
Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries give sweetness and a pop of color! If strawberries aren’t in season, frozen berries work too, just thaw and chop them first.
How Do You Get the Right Consistency for Cookie Dough?
Getting the right texture is crucial for this cookie dough. It should be thick yet manageable. Here’s how to make sure you nail it:
- Start with the almond flour and protein powder mixture—it should feel fluffy and light.
- Add the peanut butter and maple syrup. Mix well; it should start to come together but may seem crumbly.
- If the dough is too dry, gradually add almond milk, one tablespoon at a time. This helps achieve that perfect dough consistency!
- Feel free to taste the dough as you go. Adjust sweetness with more syrup if needed.
Your cookie dough should be thick enough to hold its shape but soft enough to scoop easily. Enjoy your treat! 🍓
Strawberry Protein Cookie Dough
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup almond flour (or oat flour for a lighter texture)
- 1/2 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter (or almond butter)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Add-Ins:
- 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped
- 1-2 tbsp unsweetened almond milk (or any milk) – optional for desired consistency
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You can enjoy it immediately or let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes for a firmer texture. Regardless, it’s a quick and satisfying treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, protein powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently with a spoon or whisk until the dry ingredients are well blended. This step is crucial for an even flavor.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients:
Add the natural peanut butter, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix everything together until it forms a thick dough-like consistency. If it feels too dry, add a tablespoon of almond milk and mix again. You can add more milk if it still seems too crumbly.
3. Add in the Fun Stuff:
Gently fold in the finely chopped fresh strawberries and mini dark chocolate chips. Be careful not to crush the strawberries too much; you want to keep those lovely chunks in your dough!
4. Taste and Adjust:
Before scooping it out, taste your cookie dough! If you want it a bit sweeter, just add a drizzle of maple syrup. Mix well to incorporate any additional sweetness.
5. Scoop and Serve:
Use a spoon to scoop the cookie dough into small serving bowls or shape them into little balls. If you’re feeling creative, you can make them into fun shapes!
6. Chill (Optional):
For a slightly firmer texture, pop the cookie dough into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step is optional, but it makes them easier to handle if you decide to store them for later.
Enjoy your delicious, healthy Strawberry Protein Cookie Dough as a snack, dessert, or even when you need a quick protein boost! It’s sweet, satisfying, and guilt-free! 🍓
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just be sure to thaw them first and chop them into small pieces. This way, they’ll blend nicely into your cookie dough without adding too much extra moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Peanut Butter?
If you need a peanut-free option, almond butter or sunflower seed butter are great alternatives! They’ll keep the dough creamy while giving a different flavor. You could also try cashew butter for a unique twist.
How Should I Store Leftover Cookie Dough?
Store any leftover cookie dough in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it! Just scoop it into balls and freeze on a baking sheet before storing them in a freezer bag, where they’ll last for up to 2 months.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, swap honey for maple syrup and use a plant-based protein powder. Ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free as well. You’ll have a delicious vegan treat!
