This protein cookie dough is one of those recipes that feels a little too good to be true. It tastes like classic chocolate chip cookie dough, but it is made with simple, wholesome ingredients and comes together in just minutes.
I make this when a sweet craving hits and I want something comforting but balanced. It is smooth, scoopable, and honestly hard to stop eating straight from the bowl. If you love no bake snacks that feel cozy and fun, this protein cookie dough is going to be a favorite.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tastes like real cookie dough
- High protein and filling
- No baking required
- Ready in just minutes
- Easy to customize with flavors and mix-ins
- Great for snacking or dessert
This protein cookie dough is one of those recipes that feels playful and practical at the same time.
Ingredients
- ½ cup protein powder
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- ½ cup peanut butter or nut or seed butter of choice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- Sweetener of choice, to taste
- ½ cup chocolate chips or sugar free chocolate chips
It may sound surprising, but chickpeas blend into the creamiest base and completely disappear once mixed.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Protein powder choice matters here. Use one you already enjoy the flavor of, since it will come through in the dough. Unsweetened protein powder lets you control the sweetness more easily.
Chickpeas should be well rinsed and drained. I like to rub off the loose skins when I have a minute. It helps create a smoother texture.
For sweetener, the amount depends on your taste and the protein powder you use. I like brown sugar, coconut sugar, or a sugar free option like xylitol. Start small and adjust as you go.
Peanut butter adds classic cookie dough flavor, but almond butter, cashew butter, or sunbutter all work beautifully.
Instructions
- Add the chickpeas, protein powder, peanut butter, salt, vanilla extract, and sweetener to a food processor.
- Blend until completely smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed. This usually takes about one minute.
- If the mixture feels too thick, add a small splash of milk of choice and blend again until creamy.
- Transfer the dough to a bowl and stir in the chocolate chips by hand.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed, then enjoy right away or chill briefly.
Pro Tips for Success
- Blend long enough for a smooth, creamy texture.
- Start with less sweetener and add more gradually.
- Use room temperature nut butter so it blends easily.
- Chill for a firmer, more scoopable cookie dough feel.
I tested this a few times to get the balance just right, and a quick taste test at the end always helps.
Storage and Reheating
Store protein cookie dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavor deepens slightly as it chills.
This recipe does not need reheating and is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Make Ahead and Freezing
You can make this protein cookie dough ahead and keep it chilled for easy snacking throughout the week.
Freezing is possible, but the texture is best fresh or refrigerated.
Tips and Variations
- Add cocoa powder for a chocolate cookie dough version.
- Use sugar free chocolate chips for a lower sugar option.
- Try almond extract for a bakery style flavor.
- Swap chickpeas for white beans for a slightly different texture.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth.
Do you like your cookie dough extra sweet or more subtle? This one is easy to adjust to your taste.
FAQs
No. Once blended, the chickpeas completely disappear in flavor and texture.
Yes. Use a dairy free protein powder and dairy free chocolate chips.
Yes. There is no raw flour or eggs in this recipe.
📖 Recipe
Protein Cookie Dough
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 3 cups 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Protein Cookie Dough is a healthy, no-bake treat made with chickpeas, nut butter, and protein powder. It's creamy, indulgent, and loaded with over 30 grams of protein - perfect for a post-workout snack or anytime sweet tooth fix.
Ingredients
- ½ cup protein powder
- 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
- ½ cup peanut butter or nut/seed butter of choice
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
- Sweetener of choice (e.g., ⅔ cup brown sugar, coconut sugar, or xylitol)
- ½ cup chocolate chips or sugar-free chocolate chips
Instructions
- Add everything except chocolate chips to a food processor.
- Blend until completely smooth. If the mixture is too thick or dry, add a splash of your preferred milk.
- Stir in the chocolate chips by hand.
- Serve immediately or chill for a firmer texture.
Notes
Adjust the sweetener based on the sweetness of your protein powder. This recipe works with brown sugar, coconut sugar, or sugar-free alternatives. For even more flavor options, try adding cinnamon, cocoa powder, or chopped nuts.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 10
Serving Suggestions
Serve this protein cookie dough by the spoonful, with apple slices for dipping, or rolled into small snack bites. I love it as an afternoon treat with a cup of coffee or tea.
It also works beautifully as a fun addition to snack boards or dessert spreads.
Nutrition and Notes
This recipe makes about 3 cups and is naturally high in protein. The exact nutrition will depend on your protein powder and sweetener choices.
I love having this in the fridge when sweet cravings pop up. It feels indulgent without feeling heavy.
Reader Reviews
Readers often say they cannot believe how much this tastes like classic cookie dough. One comment shared that it replaced store bought protein snacks entirely.
That kind of feedback always makes me smile.
Related Recipes and Internal Links
If you enjoy no bake protein snacks, you may also like my Pumpkin Protein Balls for a cozy seasonal option.
For a baked treat, Oatmeal Raisin Protein Cookies are a wholesome favorite that works well for breakfast.
I hope this protein cookie dough brings a little fun into your snack routine. Simple, creamy, and made for sharing, or not. Let me know how you customize yours.Pinterest Title: Easy Protein Cookie Dough (No Bake Snack)
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