These Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites are a fun and tasty treat! Packed with chocolate flavor and colorful sprinkles, they’re a quick snack that feels like dessert.
I like to grab one after a workout or as a sweet surprise during the day. Just pop them in your mouth and enjoy—who says healthy can’t be fun? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Protein Powder: Chocolate protein powder is ideal for this recipe, enhancing both flavor and nutrition. If you don’t have chocolate, vanilla can work, but the flavor will shift a bit. For a vegan option, look for plant-based protein powders.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder adds rich chocolate flavor. You could use Dutch-processed cocoa for a milder taste, but be aware it has less acidity compared to natural cocoa.
Almond Flour/Oats: Almond flour gives a nutty flavor, but you can swap it for finely ground oats for a gluten-free option. Just make sure they are certified gluten-free if you’re sensitive!
Nut Butter: While natural peanut butter is a great choice, feel free to substitute with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a different taste. This could be especially helpful for those with nut allergies.
Sweeteners: Honey adds sweetness and helps bind the mixture. Maple syrup is a good vegan alternative. You can also substitute with agave syrup for a similar result.
Dark Chocolate: A delicious coating! If you want a dairy-free version, make sure to choose dark chocolate that is dairy-free or use vegan chocolate chips.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for Protein Bites?
Achieving that delightful brownie-like texture is crucial! Here are some tips to ensure your bites come out just right:
- Combine the dry ingredients thoroughly before adding the wet ones to prevent clumps.
- When adding the almond milk, do so gradually. The dough should be thick but moldable. If it feels too crumbly, add a bit more milk until it holds together.
- Chilling the bites before coating them in chocolate helps them maintain their shape and makes dipping easier.
- Don’t skip the extra sprinkles on top! They not only add color but can help hide any imperfections from the coating process.
Following these tips will help you create delicious, cohesive Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites that are as fun to eat as they are nutritious! Enjoy your healthy treat!
How to Make Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 1 cup protein powder (chocolate flavor recommended)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup almond flour or finely ground oats
- 1/3 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup mini rainbow sprinkles (ensure they are vegan if preferred)
For the Coating:
- 6 oz dark chocolate (for coating)
- Extra sprinkles for decoration
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 50 minutes for chilling and setting. You’ll spend around 30 minutes chilling the bites before coating and another 20 minutes for the chocolate to harden. It’s an easy and fun snack to whip up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the protein powder, cocoa powder, and almond flour. Make sure to mix everything together so each ingredient is evenly distributed.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Add the peanut butter, honey, almond milk, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir well until a thick, brownie-like dough forms. If the mixture feels too dry, simply add a little more almond milk, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency.
3. Fold in the Sprinkles:
Carefully fold in the mini rainbow sprinkles, mixing gently to avoid melting them and ensuring they are evenly spread throughout the dough.
4. Shape the Bites:
Roll the dough into small 1-inch balls, placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Once shaped, pop them into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
5. Melt the Chocolate:
While the protein bites are chilling, melt the dark chocolate. Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 20-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth and fully melted.
6. Coat the Bites:
After 30 minutes, take the chilled bites out of the fridge. Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is thoroughly coated. Then, place them back on the parchment paper.
7. Add Extra Sprinkles:
Before the chocolate sets, quickly sprinkle extra colorful sprinkles on top of each bite to give it that fun cosmic look!
8. Chill Again:
Refrigerate the chocolate-covered bites for an additional 20 minutes, allowing the chocolate to harden completely.
9. Store and Enjoy:
Once the chocolate has set, store your Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Grab them as a delicious protein-packed snack anytime!
This recipe brings you a delightful mix of rich chocolate brownie flavor, bright sprinkles, and nutritious ingredients. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while keeping it healthy!
Can I Substitute the Nut Butter in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While natural peanut butter gives a great flavor, you can easily swap it with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option. Just ensure the consistency remains similar for the best results.
How Long Do These Protein Bites Last?
Your Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites will last in the fridge for up to one week when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, consider freezing them, which can extend their freshness for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge before enjoying!
What If My Mixture is Too Dry or Crumbly?
If your dough feels too dry, no worries! Simply add more almond milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you achieve a thick, moldable consistency. It’s important to get the right balance so your bites hold together well.
Can I Make These Protein Bites Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan! Use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure that your dark chocolate is dairy-free. Additionally, check that your protein powder is vegan-friendly for a fully plant-based treat!
