Why These Protein Cookies Are the Ultimate Snack
There are days when you just need comfort food.
But you also want fuel.
And you want it quick.
Enter these Peanut Butter Protein Cookies.
Made with just 4 ingredients, these cookies:
- Satisfy your peanut butter cravings
- Fuel your body with protein
- Are chewy and indulgent
- No added sugar or refined carbs — just real, wholesome ingredients
They’re the kind of treat you can have in the afternoon to curb hunger or after a workout to boost your recovery. They taste like an indulgence but have the power of protein packed into every bite.
Let’s bake!
What You’ll Need (With Benefits)
For the Cookie Base:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
Healthy fats, protein, and rich flavor for a chewy base - ½ cup protein powder (chocolate, vanilla, or peanut butter flavored)
Boosts protein without changing the texture - ½ cup old-fashioned oats
Adds texture, fiber, and heartiness to the cookie base
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ cup chocolate chips (dark, milk, or white chocolate)
- 1 tbsp flaxseed meal (adds fiber and healthy fats)
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (for extra sweetness, optional)
- Pinch of sea salt (to balance the sweetness)
🍳 How to Make It (Step-by-Step)
1. Preheat Oven
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat
2. Mix the Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine:
- Peanut butter
- Protein powder
- Oats
- Stir until fully combined. If the dough is too thick, add a tablespoon of water or milk to loosen it up.
3. Add the Chocolate Chips (Optional)
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips, flaxseed, or any additional mix-ins you like.
4. Form the Cookies
- Roll dough into balls (about 1–1.5 inches each) and place them on the baking sheet
- Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers.
5. Bake
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden and slightly firm to the touch
- Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack
6. Enjoy
- Serve at room temperature or chilled (they hold up well in the fridge!)
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days
Storage & Meal Prep
- Store in airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days
- Freeze for up to 2 months — great for grabbing and going!
Macros (Per Cookie — Makes 10-12 Cookies)
(Assumes 1 scoop protein powder and no additional sugar or sweeteners)
- Calories: ~160–180
- Protein: 10–12g
- Carbs: 12–14g (net carbs ~10g)
- Fat: 12–14g
- Fiber: 2–4g
✅ High-Protein
✅ Low Sugar (if using no added sweetener)
✅ Gluten-Free
✅ Meal Prep Friendly
✅ Craving-Crusher
Why These Cookies Are My Go-To
There are days when I just need something simple. Something that hits the spot without wrecking my day.
These cookies are super simple to make and packed with protein. They take no time at all but fill the void between meals — without making me feel sluggish. Peanut butter gives them that comforting taste while the protein powder keeps me energized.
Plus, they’re kid-approved. My son loves them, so I don’t feel guilty when I give him one.
When you bake them, they give you that fresh-out-of-the-oven feeling every time you take a bite.
Variations & Custom Twists
| Want This | Do This |
|---|---|
| More Protein | Add 1 extra scoop of protein powder |
| Chocolate Lovers | Double the chocolate chips or add cacao nibs |
| Crunchy | Add chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or peanuts |
| Vegan | Use plant-based protein powder and coconut oil instead of butter |
| Sweet & Salty | Sprinkle with sea salt after baking |
FAQs
Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes, almond butter works great! Just make sure it’s smooth and stir well.
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned?
Yes, but the texture will be a bit softer and less chewy. Old-fashioned oats provide better structure.
Do these cookies need refrigeration?
No, but they last longer in the fridge and are less crumbly when chilled.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Of course! Dried fruit, shredded coconut, or even protein-rich seeds like chia or hemp would work great.
Are these cookies keto?
If you swap the oats for ground flax or almond flour, you can make them more keto-friendly. The oats have a moderate carb count.