Hey there! If you’re looking for a snack that’s both indulgent and nutritious, these Choco Banana Protein Cookies are the perfect choice. I’ve combined two of my favorite flavors chocolate and banana with a boost of protein to create a cookie that’s both delicious and satisfying. Whether you’re in need of a post-workout treat or just a snack that fuels you through the day, these cookies have got your back! They’re soft, chewy, and packed with flavor. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, so you’ll have them ready in no time. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Method
- Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature for baking, which helps the cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden edge. While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easy and to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- Mash the Banana
Take your ripe banana and mash it in a mixing bowl until it’s completely smooth. Use a fork or potato masher to get rid of any chunks. A ripe banana will give your cookies a natural sweetness, so make sure it’s nice and soft. If the banana is too firm, the texture of the cookie might not be as moist.
- Mix in the Peanut Butter
Add the peanut butter (or almond butter for a twist) to the mashed banana. Stir well until the mixture is fully combined and smooth. The peanut butter adds both flavor and a rich, creamy texture to the dough, making your cookies extra soft.
- Add Dry Ingredients
Next, stir in the vanilla protein powder, rolled oats, baking soda, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Make sure everything is mixed thoroughly. The protein powder will give your cookies an extra boost of nutrition, while the oats provide some heartiness and fiber. The baking soda helps the cookies rise slightly, and the vanilla extract adds a lovely, subtle sweetness.
- Fold in the Chocolate Chips
Once your dough is ready, it’s time to fold in the chocolate chips. Use a spatula or spoon to gently mix the chips into the dough without breaking them. This step gives each cookie a sweet, melty surprise in every bite!
- Shape the Dough into Cookies
Now, scoop small portions of the dough using about one tablespoon of dough per cookie. Roll each portion into a ball and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Gently press down on each ball with your fingers or the back of a spoon to flatten them into a cookie shape. Space them a little apart to give them room to spread as they bake.
- Bake the Cookies
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them look for golden edges and a firm center. The cookies will firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem soft when you first take them out of the oven.
- Cool the Cookies
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling them on the sheet first allows them to set, so they won’t fall apart when you move them. Patience is key here while it’s tempting to eat them right away, giving them time to cool will help them hold their shape and improve the texture.
Necessary Tools
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (for easy cleanup)
- Oven
Choco Banana Protein Cookies A Deliciously Healthy Treat
Cuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy12
servings10
minutes12
minutes22
minutesIngredients
1 ripe banana (mashed)
1/2 cup of peanut butter (or almond butter for a twist)
1 scoop of vanilla protein powder
1/2 cup of rolled oats
1/4 cup of dark chocolate chips
1/4 teaspoon of baking soda
1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mash the banana in a mixing bowl until smooth.
- Add the peanut butter and mix until well combined.
- Stir in the protein powder, rolled oats, baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix everything together until a dough forms.
- Fold in the chocolate chips for a little extra sweetness and texture.
- Scoop small portions of the dough (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into balls. Place them on the baking sheet and gently flatten each ball to form a cookie shape.
- Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden and the cookies are firm.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Don’t skip the cooling time It might be tempting to dive right into these warm, gooey cookies, but letting them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet helps them firm up, making them easier to handle.
- Watch the baking time Keep an eye on the cookies while they’re in the oven. Since ovens vary, it’s important to check them around the 10-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
- Use ripe bananas The riper the banana, the sweeter your cookies will be. Overripe bananas work best, so don’t throw them out they’re perfect for baking!
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect as a quick snack or a light dessert. Pair them with a glass of almond milk or your favorite protein shake to keep the healthy vibes going. You can also enjoy them alongside some fresh fruit for an added nutritional boost.
Fun Fact
Did you know bananas are rich in potassium, which helps with muscle recovery after a workout? So not only do these cookies taste great, but they’re perfect for refueling after hitting the gym!
Conclusion
These Choco Banana Protein Cookies are a deliciously healthy treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth without derailing your nutrition goals. Packed with protein and healthy fats, they’ll keep you energized throughout the day, whether you’re powering through a workout or just enjoying a tasty snack. I hope you give these a try, and don’t forget to share with friends and family they’re always a hit!
