Name: Protein Cookie Dough Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup almond flour; ½ cup vanilla protein powder; ¼ cup creamy almond butter; 3 tablespoons maple syrup; ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract; ⅛ teaspoon fine sea salt; 2–3 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk (as needed); ¼ cup mini chocolate chips

If you're on the hunt for an absolutely dreamy, edible cookie dough that's secretly good for you, this Protein Cookie Dough Recipe will be your new obsession! It's rich, creamy, and loaded with melty chocolate chips, but still packs a powerful protein punch.

This no-bake treat comes together in just a few minutes, tastes just like classic cookie dough, and is a total game changer for those mid-afternoon cravings or post-workout snacks. The texture is perfectly soft, the flavor is sweet and a little nutty, and best of all-you can eat it straight from the bowl without any worries.

It's my go-to when I want something indulgent yet healthy, and it always satisfies that nostalgic cookie dough craving. Whip up a batch for meal prep, to share with friends, or for a secretly healthy dessert any night of the week!

Spoonful of protein cookie dough dotted with chocolate chips

Why You'll Love This Recipe

No baking required-ready in just 10 minutes!
Packed with muscle-building protein to keep you satisfied
Tastes just like classic cookie dough but much healthier
Made with simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have
Perfect for meal prep, snacking, or a quick healthier dessert

Key Ingredients for Protein Cookie Dough Recipe

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Protein Powder

Protein powder is the star of this recipe, giving the dough its high-protein content and a deliciously creamy texture. Use a quality vanilla or chocolate protein powder for best flavor. Opt for plant-based or whey, depending on your preference or dietary needs-just know that each may alter the final texture a bit (whey tends to mix in smoother, while plant protein may require a bit more liquid).

Almond Flour

Almond flour makes the dough soft, rich, and naturally gluten-free. It adds that classic nutty undertone reminiscent of real cookie dough. Use fine blanched almond flour for the most authentic cookie dough consistency. If you need a substitution, oat flour works in a pinch, but the flavor and texture will change slightly.

Nut Butter

Creamy nut butter, like almond or cashew, gives body, richness, and helps bring everything together into that perfect cookie dough texture. Opt for a no-stir nut butter for best results. Peanut butter is a delicious swap, but will give the dough a peanutty twist!

Maple Syrup

Maple syrup is used to naturally sweeten the dough and provide a hint of caramel flavor. You can substitute with honey or agave if you like, though each will bring its own subtle flavor note to the dough.

Mini Chocolate Chips

Mini chocolate chips give you the classic cookie dough vibe in every bite. Use dairy-free or dark chocolate chips for a vegan or lower-sugar option. Feel free to swap in chopped chocolate or omit altogether if you want an even healthier treat.

Protein Cookie Dough Recipe cooking process

Instructions for Protein Cookie Dough Recipe

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Gather and Prep Ingredients

Start by measuring out all your ingredients so everything comes together quickly. Line up your mixing bowl and spatula-you're only a few steps away from cookie dough bliss!

Mix the Dough

In a medium bowl, combine the almond flour, protein powder, and sea salt. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed and you don't get any lumps.

Add the Wet Ingredients

Add the almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix thoroughly using a spatula until a thick dough forms. The dough should come together easily and look just like traditional cookie dough.

Adjust Consistency

Gradually add the almond milk, one tablespoon at a time, mixing after each addition. You want a soft and scoopable dough-add more almond milk as needed, but don't overdo it. The dough should hold its shape but not be too sticky or too dry.

Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, making sure they're evenly distributed for perfect chocolate in every bite.

Serve or Store

Enjoy immediately by scooping into bowls or rolling into bite-sized balls. For a firmer texture, pop the dough in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Recipe Variations

Make It Vegan

Use a plant-based protein powder and dairy-free chocolate chips to keep this recipe completely vegan and just as delicious!

Switch Up the Nut Butter

Swap almond butter for peanut butter or cashew butter for a different flavor twist. Each nut butter brings its own unique taste-peanut butter is especially nostalgic!

Add Superfoods

Boost your dough by stirring in chia seeds, ground flax, or a tablespoon of hemp hearts for extra fiber and healthy fats.

Go Chocolate Crazy

Use chocolate flavored protein powder or stir in a sprinkle of cocoa powder for double chocolate cookie dough. You can even add white chocolate chips for variety!

Nut-Free Version

Replace almond flour with oat flour and use sunflower seed butter instead of nut butter. The taste and texture will change a bit, but you'll still get an awesome protein-packed treat.

Serving Suggestions

Protein cookie dough is perfect on its own, but it's also delicious crumbled over Greek yogurt, blended into smoothie bowls, or used as a topping for your favorite protein ice cream. For an impressive presentation, garnish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a few extra chocolate chips just before serving.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover protein cookie dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze dough balls for up to 2 months and thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying. No need to reheat-just let it come to room temperature for the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Protein Cookie Dough Recipe (FAQ)

Q: Can I bake this protein cookie dough into cookies?

A: This dough is specifically designed for eating raw, so it won't bake up like traditional cookie dough. For baked cookies, use a standard cookie recipe.

Q: What type of protein powder works best?

A: Both whey and plant-based protein powders work, but whey blends smoothest. If using plant-based, you may need a touch more liquid for the perfect texture.

Q: How can I make this nut-free?

A: Substitute almond flour with oat flour and replace almond butter with sunflower seed butter to make this recipe safe for nut allergies.

Craving something sweet but need a healthy boost? This Protein Cookie Dough Recipe is here to answer those snack-time dreams-ready in minutes, loaded with protein, and so easy. Give it a try and let me know what you think in the comments below or leave a star rating if you loved it!

★★★★★ 4.70 from 152 ratings