Protein snacks are great for gym junkies or those just looking for more nutritious alternatives to their favorite foods. Here are 11 things to make with protein powder that that taste so good, you won’t miss the real deal.
1. Protein Shake
Photo by Hana Brannigan
Let’s start with the most basic and obvious protein snack: the good ol’ protein shake. You can get creative with them, instead of just using plain water and protein powder. Here are some ways to up your protein shake game.
2. Parfait
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Since you have the control over what goes into your parfait, it doesn’t have to be sugary and additive-filled. Instead, use these healthy recipes as inspiration.
#SpoonTip: For maximum protein status, use plain nonfat Greek yogurt and sweeten it with stevia.
3. Protein Mug Cake
Photo by Hana Brannigan
Single-serving recipes are the best, since you don’t have to worry about using any self-control. This single-serving protein mug cake ensures that you can have your cake and still get shredded. I’m addicted to this recipe and eat it almost every night.
4. Protein Ice Cream
Photo by Hana Brannigan
If you are lazy don’t have time or the energy, they sell protein ice cream, like Halo Top, at health food stores. Unlike some other brands out there, Halo Top actually tastes like real ice cream — and it’s only 240-280 calories per pint. If you want to try to make it at home, there are a ton of great recipes using mainly protein powder.
5. Protein Brownies
Photo by Hana Brannigan
As you have probably noticed, I have a huge sweet tooth. Finding every single way to recreate a protein dessert is what I do in my free time. You would think nothing can compare to a real, gooey, moist brownie, but this recipe will make you think twice. An added bonus is that it doesn’t require protein powder.
6. Protein Cookies
Photo by Hana Brannigan
Another dessert one. Surprised yet? There are so many takes on protein cookies because cookies are just irresistible. Here’s a recipe that only uses one ingredient, which is one of the best protein bars on the market right now. If you’re feeling a little fancier, though, here are no-bake, allergen-friendly cookies you cake make. They’re so easy to put in a Ziploc and bring to school, too.
7. Eggs
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Eggs are high in protein and healthy fats that you can have for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. You can do so many different things with them, too, which makes eggs the perfect versatile ingredient.
8. Protein Bread
Photo by Hana Brannigan
No, this is not a dream. Carbs have a bad rep, and while you shouldn’t avoid them, if you’re looking for a quick snack without too many carbs, this recipe will blow your mind.
9. Protein Pancakes
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This a great dish to start your morning. You’ll be satisfied from the amount of protein in these, and it’ll be the most amazing breakfast you’ve had in a long time. Here’s a recipe that you can make with your favorite brand of protein powder. If you don’t have protein powder, you can still make some bomb protein pancakes with this recipe.
10. Protein Waffles
Photo by Hana Brannigan
Literally the same thing as protein pancakes, but in waffle form. Sometimes those little holes and crispiness make all the difference.
#SpoonTip: Make it even more protein-packed by making a savory waffle dish with eggs and bacon.
11. Protein Bar
Photo courtesy of @healthnutlife on Instagram
We started with a typical protein option, and now we end with the basic go-to protein bar. Not all protein bars are created equal, though. My favorite are Quest Bars because they don’t have much sugar, are made with recognizable ingredients, and are full of protein. They taste amazing on their own or in other delectable treats.