These Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites are a treat that tastes just like dessert! Packed with protein and delicious chocolatey goodness, they’re perfect for a quick snack or post-workout boost.
Making them is a breeze! Just mix the ingredients, roll them into little balls, and you’re all set. Plus, I like to pretend they’re a little healthier than actual brownies—who wouldn’t? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chocolate Protein Powder: This is the star ingredient that gives these bites a rich chocolate flavor and boosts protein content. If you’re not a fan of chocolate protein, vanilla can work too, though it will alter the taste.
Almond Flour or Oat Flour: Both flours add a nice texture, but you can use regular all-purpose flour if you have it on hand. If you have nut allergies, use a gluten-free flour blend instead.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa gives a deep chocolate flavor. If you want a sweeter taste, you can try using a sweetened cocoa powder, but adjust the syrup to avoid over-sweetening.
Nut Butters: Almond butter is my go-to for a nutty flavor, but peanut butter or sunflower seed butter works great too! Just keep in mind that different nut butters can affect the texture slightly.
Sweeteners: Maple syrup adds a lovely flavor, but honey or agave syrup also works. If you prefer a low-calorie option, try using a sugar-free syrup.
Dark Chocolate: For coating, I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate. If you want a lighter option, milk chocolate can work, just remember to keep an eye on sweetness.
How Do I Get the Perfect Chocolate Coating?
Making sure your protein bites are coated evenly in chocolate can be tricky! Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- Use a microwave-safe bowl to melt the dark chocolate in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, stirring in between. This helps avoid burning the chocolate.
- If you add coconut oil, it can help the chocolate stay smooth and give it a nice shine.
- When dipping the bites, let the excess chocolate drip off before placing them on parchment paper. This prevents puddles.
- Add sprinkles immediately after coating; they stick better to the wet chocolate.
With these tips, your Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites will not only look great but taste fantastic too! Enjoy your healthy treat!
Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 1 cup chocolate protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- 1/2 cup almond flour or oat flour
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup natural almond butter or peanut butter
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-4 tbsp almond milk or any milk (as needed for consistency)
For the Coating:
- 6 oz dark chocolate (for coating)
- 1-2 tbsp coconut oil (optional, for chocolate coating)
- Colorful crunchy sprinkles or “cosmic” candy bits for decoration
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and make, including chilling time. You’ll need about 20 minutes to roll the bites and coat them in chocolate, plus another 20 minutes for them to chill in the fridge.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate protein powder, almond flour or oat flour, cocoa powder, and the salt. Stir everything together until it’s well-mixed—this will be the base of your bites!
2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Next, add the almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix everything together until it’s combined nicely. It should hold together, but if it feels too crumbly, don’t worry!
3. Adjust Consistency with Milk:
Now, gradually add almond milk, one tablespoon at a time. Mix after each addition until the mixture becomes firm but can still be rolled into balls without sticking excessively to your hands. You’re looking for a dough-like consistency!
4. Roll into Balls:
Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place them on a parchment-lined tray so they don’t stick. This recipe should make about 12-15 bites.
5. Chill to Firm Up:
Pop the tray in the fridge and chill the balls for at least 20 minutes. This makes them easier to coat in chocolate later!
6. Melt the Chocolate:
While the bites are chilling, melt your dark chocolate. You can do this in a microwave-safe bowl by heating it in 15-20 second bursts, stirring in between until smooth. If you’re using coconut oil, add it to the chocolate now for a nice shine and balance in texture.
7. Coat the Bites:
Once the bites are firm, remove them from the fridge. Using a fork or toothpick, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, making sure they are fully coated. Let any excess chocolate drip off before placing them back on the parchment paper.
8. Add the Cosmic Touch:
Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle the colorful crunchy sprinkles on top of the newly coated bites! This gives them that fun, cosmic look.
9. Final Chill:
Put the coated bites back in the fridge and let them chill for another 15-20 minutes until the chocolate hardens. This step makes them even more enjoyable to eat!
10. Enjoy Your Bites!
Once the chocolate has hardened, you can store the Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites in an airtight container in the fridge. They make a great snack—healthy, chocolatey, and full of protein!
Remember, these bites capture the rich chocolate flavor and brownie vibe you love, all while being a fun and healthy treat! Enjoy every bite! 🍫✨
Can I Use a Different Type of Protein Powder?
Absolutely! You can substitute chocolate whey protein with a plant-based protein or even a vanilla flavor. Just remember that it will slightly change the flavor profile of the bites.
How Do I Store Leftover Protein Bites?
Store any leftover Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week, but they’re usually enjoyed quickly because they’re so delicious!
Can I Make These Vegan-Friendly?
Yes! To make these bites vegan, use a plant-based protein powder, substitute the honey with maple syrup, and ensure that the chocolate used for coating is dairy-free. Plenty of vegan chocolates are available on the market.
What If the Mixture Is Too Sticky?
If your mixture is too sticky to handle, simply add a little more almond flour or protein powder until it reaches a workable consistency. Just be cautious not to add too much at once!