Description
Craving a sweet, indulgent treat that’s actually good for you? Protein Cookie Dough transforms low-fat cottage cheese and vanilla protein powder into a creamy, protein-rich dessert or snack, studded with dark chocolate chips and flavored with almond butter and maple syrup
Ingredients
Protein Cookie Dough uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create a creamy, cookie-dough-like treat. Here’s what you’ll need for 4-6 servings (about 2 cups):
- 8 ounces low-fat cottage cheese: Provides a creamy, protein-rich base.
- 2 tablespoons almond butter: Adds nutty flavor and richness.
- 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup: Offers natural sweetness, adjustable to taste.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances flavor with a warm, dessert-like note.
- ½ cup almond flour: Creates a cookie-dough texture and keeps it gluten-free.
- ½ cup vanilla protein powder: Boosts protein content and adds sweetness.
- ½ cup dark chocolate chips: Provides indulgent, chocolatey bursts.
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Cottage Cheese: Delivers a creamy base with high protein and low fat.
- Protein Powder: Enhances protein content and mimics the sweetness of cookie dough.
- Almond Butter and Flour: Add nutty flavor and a dough-like consistency.
- Dark Chocolate Chips: Bring classic cookie dough indulgence with less sugar than milk chocolate.
Substitutions and Variations
- Cottage Cheese: Use full-fat cottage cheese for richer flavor or Greek yogurt/plant-based yogurt for a vegan option (may alter texture).
- Almond Butter: Swap with peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for nut-free.
- Maple Syrup: Replace with honey, agave nectar, or a sugar-free sweetener like monk fruit syrup.
- Almond Flour: Substitute with oat flour or coconut flour (use ⅓ cup coconut flour, as it’s more absorbent).
- Protein Powder: Use any flavor (chocolate or unflavored works); for vegan, use plant-based protein powder.
- Dark Chocolate Chips: Replace with milk chocolate, white chocolate, or cocoa nibs; use vegan chocolate for a vegan version.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based yogurt, vegan protein powder, and vegan chocolate chips.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; ensure protein powder and chocolate chips are certified gluten-free.
- Flavor Variations:
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip: Use peanut butter and add ¼ cup chopped peanuts.
- Snickerdoodle: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon and omit chocolate chips.
- Double Chocolate: Use chocolate protein powder and add 1 tablespoon cocoa powder.
- Cookie Crunch: Mix in ¼ cup crushed gluten-free cookies or granola.
Instructions
Step 1: Gather and Prep
- Gather all ingredients: 8 ounces low-fat cottage cheese, 2 tablespoons almond butter, 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ½ cup almond flour, ½ cup vanilla protein powder, and ½ cup dark chocolate chips.
- Ensure cottage cheese is chilled for best blending results.
Tip: Use low-fat cottage cheese for a lighter texture; full-fat adds extra creaminess.
Step 2: Blend Wet Ingredients
- In a blender or food processor, combine 8 ounces low-fat cottage cheese, 2 tablespoons almond butter, and 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup (adjust to taste).
- Blend until smooth and creamy, about 30-60 seconds, scraping down the sides as needed.
Tip: Blend thoroughly to eliminate cottage cheese curds for a smooth base; taste and adjust maple syrup for sweetness.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Pour the blended mixture into a large mixing bowl.
- Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ½ cup almond flour, and ½ cup vanilla protein powder.
- Stir with a spatula or spoon until fully combined, forming a thick, cookie-dough-like consistency.
Tip: Mix gently to avoid a tough texture; add a splash of milk if too dry.
Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips
- Fold in ½ cup dark chocolate chips, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough.
Tip: Use a gentle folding motion to keep the dough light and incorporate chips evenly.
Step 5: Serve or Store
- Scoop desired servings (about ⅓–½ cup each) into mason jars, bowls, or an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes to chill for a firmer texture, or serve immediately for a softer dough.
- Optionally freeze for 1-2 hours for a chilled, scoopable treat.
- Enjoy with a spoon or as a dip with fruit slices or pretzels!
Tip: Chilling enhances texture; freeze in small portions for grab-and-go snacks.