These protein bites are a fun, healthier version of the classic Cosmic Brownies you remember from childhood. With protein powder, almond butter, and cocoa powder, these bites are rich and fudgy, while still being packed with nutrients. The homemade chocolate ganache and vibrant sprinkles make them irresistible, perfect for a quick snack or dessert that’s portable and satisfying. Plus, they’re no-bake, so they’re incredibly easy to make!
Ingredients
1 cup protein powder (chocolate or vanilla)
1/2 cup almond butter (or any creamy nut/seed butter)
1/4 cup cocoa powder
3 Tbsp maple syrup (or honey)
1–2 Tbsp milk of choice (optional, to adjust consistency)
1/4 cup quick oats (optional, for texture)
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1 tsp coconut oil (optional, for ganache shine)
2 Tbsp rainbow sprinkles
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
In a medium bowl, combine the protein powder, cocoa powder, almond butter, maple syrup, and optional oats. Stir until a thick dough forms.
If the dough feels too dry, add milk 1 tablespoon at a time until the mixture is firm but rollable.
Use a scoop or your hands to roll the dough into 1-tablespoon-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined tray. Chill the bites in the fridge for 20–60 minutes.
Melt the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in the microwave in 20-second intervals until smooth.
Dip or drizzle each bite in the ganache, then immediately top with rainbow sprinkles.
Return the bites to the fridge and chill for another 20–30 minutes until the ganache has set.
Store the protein bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 10–14 protein bites
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (no bake)
Total Time: About 1 hour (including chilling)
Variations
Nut Butter: Substitute almond butter with peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor.
Sweeteners: Use coconut sugar or a sugar-free chocolate for a reduced-sugar version.
Protein Powder: Experiment with different protein powder flavors like vanilla or plant-based protein for variation.
Oats: You can omit the oats for a smoother texture or use rolled oats for a chewier bite.
Chocolate: Use milk chocolate or white chocolate for the ganache, depending on your preference.
Storage/Reheating
Store these protein bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. No reheating is necessary—simply enjoy them straight from the fridge or freezer!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different nut butter?
Yes, you can substitute almond butter with peanut butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter for a different flavor.
2. Can I use a different type of protein powder?
Absolutely! You can use vanilla, chocolate, or plant-based protein powder depending on your taste preference or dietary needs.
3. Do I have to use oats in the recipe?
No, the oats are optional. They add texture but can be omitted if preferred.
4. Can I make these bites without the chocolate ganache?
Yes, you can skip the ganache and enjoy the bites as they are, or you can roll them in cocoa powder or coconut flakes for a different finish.
5. Can I make these protein bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these bites ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.
6. How do I adjust the consistency if the dough is too dry?
If the dough feels too dry, simply add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it’s firm but rollable.
7. Can I freeze these protein bites?
Yes, these bites freeze well. Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
8. How long do these protein bites need to chill?
The bites need to chill for 20–60 minutes before coating with ganache, and another 20–30 minutes after coating to set the ganache.
9. Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can use any type of chocolate chips you prefer, including milk chocolate or white chocolate.
10. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can use sugar-free chocolate or reduce the amount of maple syrup to lower the sugar content.
Conclusion
Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites offer a healthier, protein-packed alternative to your favorite childhood treat. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, these no-bake bites are perfect for a quick snack, post-workout boost, or sweet treat. With endless customization options and the nostalgic feel of Cosmic Brownies, these bites will quickly become a go-to snack in your healthy eating routine!
These Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites offer a healthier twist on the nostalgic snack you love. Packed with protein, fudgy in texture, and topped with a chocolate ganache and rainbow sprinkles, they are perfect for an on-the-go treat or a post-workout snack!
Ingredients
1 cup protein powder (chocolate or vanilla)
1/2 cup almond butter (or any creamy nut/seed butter)
1/4 cup cocoa powder
3 Tbsp maple syrup (or honey)
1–2 Tbsp milk of choice (optional, to adjust consistency)
1/4 cup quick oats (optional, for texture)
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1 tsp coconut oil (optional, for ganache shine)
2 Tbsp rainbow sprinkles
Instructions
In a medium bowl, combine the protein powder, cocoa powder, almond butter, maple syrup, and optional oats. Stir until a thick dough forms.
If the dough feels too dry, add milk 1 tablespoon at a time until the mixture is firm but rollable.
Use a scoop or your hands to roll the dough into 1-tablespoon-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined tray. Chill the bites in the fridge for 20–60 minutes.
Melt the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in the microwave in 20-second intervals until smooth.
Dip or drizzle each bite in the ganache, then immediately top with rainbow sprinkles.
Return the bites to the fridge and chill for another 20–30 minutes until the ganache has set.
Store the protein bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Notes
For a different flavor, substitute almond butter with peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter.
Use coconut sugar or sugar-free chocolate for a reduced-sugar version.
Experiment with different protein powder flavors like vanilla or plant-based protein.
Omit the oats for a smoother texture or use rolled oats for a chewier bite.
Substitute the chocolate ganache with milk or white chocolate for a different taste.