No-bake cookie dough is arguably one of the best sweet treats to exist. In fact, if someone told me I could only ever eat one dessert ever again, I’d pick cookie dough in a heartbeat. This got me thinking that I’d love to make a cookie dough recipe that I can eat every day, while still supporting my nutrition goals. So after a lot of experimenting and perfecting, here it is.
My 4-ingredient protein cookie dough. A dessert that keeps you fuller for longer, balances blood sugar, and doesn’t require any eggs or butter.
All you need is protein powder, peanut butter, maple syrup, and cooked chickpeas. And no, this cookie dough will NOT taste like chickpeas. I pinky promise.
How to make this protein cookie dough
- Blend the cooked chickpeas until completely smooth and lump-free.
- Add in the peanut butter, protein powder (make sure it’s plant-based if vegan!), and maple syrup. Blend until a thick, cookie-dough-like texture forms.
- Mix through any optional add-ins and enjoy straight away, or place in the fridge for an hour for a firmer texture.
- Enjoy!
Why you’ll love this cookie dough
- Ready in 5 minutes. Blend the chickpeas, mix in the remaining ingredients, and you have yourself a protein cookie dough.
- High in both protein and fibre. One serving of this cookie dough will give you 16 grams of protein (depending on your protein powder) and 7 grams of fibre.
- Easy to customise. Add in whichever mix-ins you love, i.e., chocolate chips, chopped dates, or crushed pretzels.
- No baking required. Nope, you don’t need an oven or a stove for this recipe.
- Vegan and gluten-free. Make these for your vegan/gluten-free friends! They’ll love you more for it. Remember to double-check that your protein powder is plant-based and gluten-free.
Health benefits
This 4-ingredient cookie dough recipe is more nutritious (but just as satisfying) compared to the traditional version. Here are some of the benefits this recipe brings.
- Supports muscle repair and growth: Protein is key for muscle health, and this cookie dough has plenty of it.
- Supports gut health and digestion: Chickpeas are high in fibre, which is essential for a healthy gut and digestion.
- Keeps your energy stable: This recipe contains protein, fibre, and healthy fats, which are all great to keep your blood sugar and energy levels balanced.
- Reduces cravings: The ingredients in this cookie dough will keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer.
Tips for success
- Blend the chickpeas until smooth. Since the goal here is to get a cookie dough consistency, make sure the chickpeas are completely blended before adding the remaining ingredients. This is key for the perfect texture!
- Use a runny, natural peanut butter. This will make it easier to mix in and give the cookie dough the best consistency.
- Pick a tasty protein powder. Use a brand you like with great texture and flavour – this will make all the difference. And if you are making this recipe vegan, remember to stick to a plant-based protein powder!
- Adjust sweetness to taste. Feel free to add a little more/less maple syrup and taste test after blending!
- Chill the dough for a thicker texture. If you want a thicker cookie dough, pop it in the fridge to firm up before digging in.
Mix in ideas
This 4-ingredient cookie dough is the perfect base for any add-ins you feel like. Some ideas to get you started:
- Chocolate chips
- Chopped nuts
- Chopped dates
- Dried coconut
- Sprinkles
- Cacao nibs
- Crushed pretzels
More high-protein recipes you’ll love
- These 3-ingredient high-protein pancakes – they’re fluffy, sweet, and also gluten-free!
- My carrot cake protein balls – another no-bake recipe that makes the perfect pre-workout or afternoon snack.
- This low-carb, high-protein bread – it’s no-knead, keto-friendly and insanely tasty.
4-Ingredient No-Bake Protein Cookie Dough (Vegan, Gluten-free)
Ingredients
Method
- Blend the cooked chickpeas until completely smooth and lump-free.
- Add in the peanut butter, protein powder*, and maple syrup. Blend until a thick, cookie-dough-like texture forms.
- Mix through any optional add-ins and enjoy straight away, or place in the fridge for an hour for a firmer texture.
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