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If you thought chocolate chip cookies could only be decadent, indulgent and never healthy, I’m sorry to tell you, but you were wrong! This is the recipe you need when you have a sweet tooth but want to hit your protein goals. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe because who doesn’t love a small batch recipe that’s also gluten free, refined sugar free, high protein but still delicious and crave worthy?!
Life has been challenging in my world, and nothing soothes me like baking. I find the whole thing so meditative, but because menopause is such a jerk, it’s not so delicately pushed me in the direction of baking healthier. Sugar is just not my friend anymore, and to be fair, it probably never was. Whenever I have sugar, I feel it almost immediately. I feel lethargic, bloated and agitated. Not fun. So in order to keep all systems going, I have simplified my baking. Bananas are super sweet, high in fibre and the perfect sugar substitute. These cookies are so delicious, and I pinky promise, you won’t feel like you’re eating protein powder.
These high protein cookies are soft, rich, and deeply satisfying, yet made with ingredients that support your body instead of working against it. They’re exactly what my body has been asking for, and likely many of yours. What I love the most is that I designed this recipe to be small batch, not because I live alone, and not because I don’t have self control, but because it helps me enjoy fresh cookies whenever the heck I want! Of course, if you are feeding a crowd, you can increase the amounts of this recipe with ease, and everything will be just as delicious, but small batch recipes are really a great way to curb the craving without having to go all the way (also, if you don’t have self control, it’s ideal!!).
Look, I know that a whole bunch of you are going to come for me because you detest protein powder, but my real question is WHY?! Protein powder is a gift from the gods (or Bontainca!) I’m not kidding, it’s perfect for so many scenarios. Protein powder has come such a long way from what it used to be; for example, Botanica is just not grainy. It’s one of those melt-in-your-mouth types of protein powder.
Also, adding protein powder to cookie dough does more than just boost protein; it changes the entire function of the recipe. It creates structure, adds richness, and often can make a cookie gluten free without any additional effort or mixing of flours. If you’ve ever wondered how to make cookies from protein powder that actually taste good, this recipe is your answer. The key is balance. When paired with ingredients like banana and tahini, the protein powder blends seamlessly into the dough, creating a soft, cohesive texture. I promise you it doesn’t feel or taste like you’re eating protein powder (even though I wouldn’t mind, Botanica is truly delicious). The protein powder that you use really does make a difference. Some of them out there are just plain and simple NOT made for baking.
These cookies only take a handful of ingredients to make, selected mindfully for a simple, delicious and easy high protein cookie to bake! Here is what you will need, along with a few substitution options and products that I love.
The best protein powder for baking is one that blends smoothly and has a balanced flavour without taking over the whole recipe. For these cookies, I went with Botanica because it’s my go to for baking, always! Being able to use a plant based protein powder as the flour for these cookies is next level, and I wouldn’t trust any other brand. It integrates into the dough without becoming dry or grainy. Want to use a protein powder you already have? Make sure it’s not too sweet, and if flavoured, go with vanilla.
These cookies come together quickly and are ready in minutes! Grab your ingredients and let’s get baking.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures the cookies don’t stick and bake evenly. In a bowl, mash the banana until smooth. You’re looking for a soft, almost creamy consistency with minimal lumps.
Add the tahini and stir until fully combined. You’ll notice the mixture becoming thick and glossy. Stir in the vanilla to enhance the flavour.
Mix in the protein powder and hemp seeds. As you stir, the mixture will thicken into a soft dough. This is where the structure of your gluten free cookies begins to form. Add most of the chopped chocolate and gently fold it into the dough. Save a little for topping.
Using an ice cream scoop, portion the dough into five cookies. Use a spatula to gently shape and flatten them slightly since they won’t spread much on their own when baking.
Place the cookies in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges look set, and the tops appear slightly firm. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This helps them firm up while keeping the centers soft.
Can I make these cookies dairy-free? Yes, this recipe is already dairy free, so long as you choose dark chocolate without any dairy in it and use a plant based protein powder.
Does it matter what type of chocolate is used? Not at all. You can use chopped chocolate or chips. Semi sweet chocolate works well if you prefer a slightly sweeter cookie.
If you tried these high protein cookies, I would love to hear what you think. Leave a rating and review below!
Craving more protein snacks? Try these recipes next:
High Protein Strawberry Cheesecake
Food Photographer and Recipe Developer based in Toronto, Canada.
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*Macros are provided as an estimate for convenience. Your final numbers will vary depending on ingredient brands, substitutions, and how you portion the recipe.
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