Along with carbohydrates and fats, protein is another macronutrient that is a necessity in our diet. Protein is most commonly known for helping to build and maintain muscles, but it can also help your hair and nails, repair tissues, provide energy, and keep your immune system in check.
However, even with all of the various benefits of a protein-rich diet, majority of people do not consume enough of it in their everyday diets. When most people think of protein, they think of your basics of meat, beans, eggs and nuts. In addition to these sources, an easily accessible and sweet source of this nutrient is protein powder.
Protein powder is most commonly associated with bland and boring shakes, but did you know you could bake with it too? As both a dietetics major and as a girl who can’t go a day without desserts, I can assure you that these recipes are sure to curb a sweet tooth while helping your health.
#SpoonTip: These recipes can be used with any brand of protein powder. However, the best results are seen using whey protein.
1. Protein Brownie
With only a microwave and a few simple ingredients required, this chocolatey dessert can be easily made in a dorm and keep you, your waistline, and your wallet happy without splurging on those Insomnia Cookies from down the street.
2. Protein Cake
At less than 100 calories per piece while packing 10 grams of protein, this bread is the perfect snack or dessert. Switch things up by trying it out with various protein powder flavors or top it with some fresh fruit or yogurt.
3. Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
Because sometimes you just need some cookie dough and a spoon (never forks).
4. Chocolate Chip Cookies
Using simple ingredients such as protein powder, coconut flour, egg whites, applesauce and almond milk, you’ll be able to make yourself a batch of cookies…And eat the whole thing in one sitting.
5. Banana Bread
Cold weather calls for warm banana bread and at 300 calories for AN ENTIRE LOAF, you’ll be ready to curl up with a blanket and fuzzy socks and enjoy the whole thing.
6. One-Carb Waffle
There’s never a wrong time for breakfast foods. These waffles are good at any time of the day and with only one carb, there’s so many options for toppings.
7. Cheesecake
The red velvet cheesecake from Cheesecake Factory may taste good but it dials in at over 1,000 calories. This version not only is hundreds of calories less, but it also provides 22 grams of protein.
8. No-Bake Protein Bites
Quick, easy, and healthy. The perfect combination.
9. Protein Ice Cream
It may not be your typical Ben & Jerry’s pint, but this cool and creamy dessert will be sure to fill you up without leaving you in a sugar coma.
10. Peanut Butter Cups
Instead of eating all of the leftover Reese’s from Halloween, try making your own protein-packed version.
In addition to these desserts, you can add protein powder to other foods such as yogurt, oatmeal, or even hot chocolate to ensure that you’re getting enough of this muscle-building macronutrient. So go on, eat dessert!