
Quick Snapshot
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Bake Time: 8β10 minutes
- Servings: 10β12 cookies
- Protein (per cookie): ~6β8g
- Perfect For: Busy mornings, post-workout snack, protein-packed dessert
π₯ Ingredients:
- PB2 Powder (or any peanut butter powder) β Β½ cup
- Vanilla or Peanut Butter Protein Powder β Β½ cup (whey or plant-based)
- Unsweetened Applesauce or Mashed Banana β Β½ cup
Optional (but tasty!) Add-ins:
- Mini dark chocolate chips (1β2 tbsp)
- A splash of vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Dash of cinnamon
π§βπ³ Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Mix all ingredients in a medium bowl until a dough forms.
(If too dry, add 1 tbsp almond milk at a time. If too wet, add a bit more PB2.) - Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto the tray. Flatten with a fork in a criss-cross pattern.
- Bake for 8β10 minutes until edges are slightly golden.
- Cool completely on the tray (they firm up as they cool).
π Substitution Tips:
- Swap applesauce with mashed banana for a sweeter twist
- Use chocolate protein powder for a Reeseβs vibe
- Add chopped nuts or a sugar-free chocolate drizzle on top
π§ Storage:
- Fridge: 4β5 days in an airtight container
- Freezer: Up to 2 months
π¬ FAQs
Q: Can I make this without protein powder?
A: Yes, sub in more PB2 and add a touch of maple syrup for sweetness.
Q: Can I use whole peanut butter instead of PB2?
A: Not directly β PB2 helps bind and absorb moisture. Using peanut butter will make them greasy and soft unless you adjust ratios.
β€οΈ Personal Note:
I started making these when I needed something βcookie-likeβ but wouldnβt wreck my macros. Now my husband calls them βguilt-free crackβ and I have to double the batch every time.