4-Ingredient Fudgy Protein Brownies (15g Protein!) | Healthy Recipe

These 4-ingredient protein brownies pack 15g of protein per serving and taste just like real brownies! Ready in 25 minutes with simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for meal prep and post-workout treats.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tastes like real brownies
• No weird protein powder taste
• Perfect fudgy texture
• Meal-prep friendly
• Budget-friendly ingredients
• Customizable options

The Easiest 4-Ingredient High Protein Brownie Recipe Ever

This recipe is perfect for busy people looking for a quick and healthy dessert. It’s also great for anyone trying to increase their protein intake, whether for muscle building or general wellness. We’re talking a high-protein snack that satisfies your sweet tooth without the guilt.

If you’re searching for a quick, healthy treat that satisfies your chocolate cravings while boosting your protein intake, these 4-ingredient fudgy protein brownies are the answer! Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

1. Bananas – The natural sweetness of ripe bananas eliminates the need for added sugars while keeping the brownies moist.
2. Cocoa powder – Use unsweetened cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor.
3. Almond butter – This adds creaminess and healthy fats, binding the ingredients together.
4. Protein powder – Opt for a chocolate-flavored protein powder for a deeper chocolate taste or vanilla for a twist.

Your 4-Ingredient Brownie Powerhouse

This recipe is ridiculously simple. You’ll only need four ingredients which means less time measuring and MORE time enjoying these fudgy protein brownies.

• 1 ripe banana (mashed) – Provides natural sweetness and moisture, contributing to that perfect fudgy texture.
• 1/2 cup almond butter (smooth or crunchy) – Adds healthy fats and richness, contributing to that moist brownie texture. Using Justin’s or Smucker’s would be perfect!
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – The base for that intense, rich chocolate flavor everyone loves. The quality of cocoa powder makes a difference here.
• 1 scoop (approx. 30g) Optimum Nutrition or MyProtein chocolate protein powder – This provides the protein boost and adds to the fudgy texture. Adjust the type based on your preferred taste and dietary needs—whey, casein, or vegan options work great.

Step-by-Step Guide: Making Your High Protein Brownies

Follow these easy steps for perfectly fudgy, high-protein brownies. It’s easier than you think. These healthy brownies should be easy to follow.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan. This step ensures easy release of your yummy, fudgy brownies.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the protein powder and cocoa powder. This step creates a smooth blend to prevent any clumps.
3. Add the eggs and sweetener to the bowl. Mix everything until a smooth batter forms. Make sure there are no more dry ingredients, a crucial step for getting a perfect fudge texture.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Don’t be afraid to lick the spoon.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Don’t overbake or the brownies will be dry!
6. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This will help to make sure that the brownies have the perfect fudgy texture

Nutritional Information: Your Macros Unveiled

This nutritional info is approximate. It will vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients you use. Always check your ingredient labels for accurate information.

Per brownie (assuming 16 brownies):

• Calories: Approximately 150
• Protein: Approximately 15g
• Carbs: Approximately 15g
• Fat: Approximately 5g

Tips and Variations for Your Protein Brownies Recipe

• For extra fudgy brownies: Slightly underbake them.
• For a richer chocolate flavour: Use dark cocoa powder.
• Add a swirl of peanut butter: Fantastic addition and a crowd-pleaser!
• Make it gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free protein powder and baking powder.
• Meal prep your protein brownies: These are perfect for meal prepping snacks for the week.

Storage

Store your baked protein brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Freezing is also an option; simply wrap them individually and freeze for up to a month.

This protein brownies recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a healthy, delicious, and convenient snack or dessert. Try it out, and let me know what you think! Remember, these high protein brownie recipes are a great way to satisfy your sweet cravings while staying on track with your fitness goals. Enjoy your protein brownies!

Want to level up your protein brownies recipe game? Let’s dive into some pro tips and variations to make these healthy treats even better. This part focuses on addressing common concerns and offering creative twists on the classic recipe.

Troubleshooting Your Protein Brownies

Ever had a bake go wrong? It happens to the best of us! Here’s how to fix common protein brownie issues:

• Dry Brownies: Next time, add a tablespoon more milk. Overbaking is a culprit too; check it earlier. Adjust baking powder; too much leads to dryness.
• Crumbly Brownies: Under-mixing the batter can cause this. Next time, make sure you’re gently yet fully incorporating all ingredients.
• Dense Brownies: Overmixing is the main enemy here. Mix until just combined – a few lumps are perfectly fine.

Supercharging Your Protein Brownies

Let’s talk flavour and nutrition boosts! These add-ins take your high protein brownie recipe to the next level.

• Nut Butter Swirl: A classic for a reason! Swirl in peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter for extra flavour and healthy fats. Mix a couple of spoonfuls directly into the batter for a subtle nutty taste.
• Chocolate Chunk Upgrades: Swap basic chocolate chips for chunks of dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even a mix for textural and flavour variety.
• Boosting Protein: Consider adding a scoop of collagen peptides to increase protein content, enhance texture, and add a subtle boost to the taste. Optimum Nutrition makes a highly rated version.
• Spice It Up: A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or espresso powder adds a complex dimension to the flavour profile. These give a grown-up edge.

Creative Protein Brownie Variations

Ready to move beyond the basics? Let’s explore some exciting healthy brownie recipe ideas:

• Peanut Butter Protein Brownies: Add peanut butter directly to the batter. You could even make a peanut butter frosting! This is a crowd-pleaser.
• Vegan Protein Brownies: Substitute flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) for the regular eggs, and use vegan protein powder. There are many great plant-based protein powder options on the market.
• Low-Carb Protein Brownies: Use sugar substitutes such as erythritol or stevia, and opt for almond flour for a lower-carb option.

Making Protein Brownies Ahead

Planning ahead is key for busy schedules. These high protein snack recipes are perfect for meal prep:

• Baking Ahead: Bake the brownies and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They freeze well too.
• Partial Baking: You can partially bake the brownies, then complete the bake later, making them very flexible for last-minute needs.
• No-Bake Option: Explore no-bake protein brownies recipes for a quicker, no-oven alternative. These usually rely on chilled ingredients to set.

Remember, adjusting your protein brownies recipe is about experimentation and finding what you love most. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try different combinations of ingredients. Enjoy the process and the delicious results. This protein brownies recipe is your ultimate guide to guilt-free indulgence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Your Brownie Queries Answered

• Can I use a different type of protein powder? Absolutely! Experiment! Chocolate whey protein powder works best for that rich fudgy texture, but you can try casein or even vegan protein blends. Just keep in mind that the flavor might change slightly. I’ve had success using MyProtein Impact Whey.
• What if I don’t have maple syrup? No problem! Stevia, honey, or even a sugar-free alternative will do the trick. The sweetness level might change, so adjust accordingly.
• Can I make these gluten-free? Most protein powders are already gluten-free, and cocoa powder is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your ingredient labels to be sure. You’re good to go with this delicious high-protein recipe.
• How long do these protein brownies last? Store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week. They’ll stay moist and delicious.
• Can I add other ingredients? These are 4-ingredient brownies because simplicity is key. But hey, if you’re feeling adventurous, a handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts won’t hurt! Just remember that this will impact the macro count.

Try This Too!

If you love protein-packed treats, don’t miss out on my High-Protein Cookie Dough Recipe, a fun and delicious way to enjoy a healthy dessert with even more protein. It’s another great option when you’re craving something sweet but want to stay on track with your fitness goals.