7 Simple and Delicious Protein Powder Recipes

Protein powder is not just a supplement for shakes or other bodybuilding drinks. This versatile ingredient has a texture that makes it work well for a variety of other recipes. Since it is made from protein instead of grain, protein powder is ideal for crafting keto, low-carb or low-calorie treats. Here are a few great recipes that add protein to a diet while also creating tasty meals and snacks.

Protein Powder Pancakes

Enjoy a tasty and protein-packed breakfast by using protein instead of flour to make pancakes. This recipe can be made with any type of protein powder, including those with a chocolate or vanilla flavor. It is low in carbohydrates and contains no processed sugars, so it can accommodate most diets. One can easily toss in mix-ins like chocolate, fresh blueberries or nuts if desired.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup oats
• 2 scoops protein powder
• 2 Tbs. ground flax seeds
• 2 eggs
• 3 egg whites
• 4 tsp. baking powder
• 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
• 1 banana
• 1 pinch salt
• 1/2 cup optional mix-ins

Instructions:

1. Place all ingredients besides the mix-ins in a blender or food processor and mix until a smooth batter forms.
2. Heat a nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Keep in mind that the pancakes may fall apart if the heat is too low.
3. Pour 1/4 cup of batter at a time into the pan.
4. If desired, gently sprinkle some mix-ins on the pancake in the pan.
5. Wait two to three minutes until the edges look slightly dry, and then flip the pancake.
6. Cook a minute or two more and serve warm.

Chocolate Protein Pudding

This is a quick and easy snack that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. It is ideal for those who are on a low-carb diet but miss rich desserts like pudding. This recipe makes a single snack-sized serving, but it can easily be doubled.

Ingredients:

• 1 scoop chocolate egg white protein powder
• 1 tsp. cocoa powder
• 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 - 3 tsp. milk

Instructions:

1. Mix together protein and cocoa powder.
2. Gently stir powder mixture into Greek yogurt.
3. Depending on the consistency of the yogurt, add a splash of water to make the mixture slightly thinner.

Vegan Coconut Popsicles

These Popsicles are the perfect treat for a hot summer day. They are very low in calories, so they are a great dessert for those trying to maintain a healthy weight. Another great benefit is that they are both vegan and vegetarian. Depending on flavor preferences, any type of frozen or fresh berry can be used. A Popsicle mold will make the whole process easier, but these Popsicles can be made without a mold if desired.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups strawberries, raspberries, blueberries or blackberries
• 2 scoops vanilla protein
• 1 cup soy milk
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1 banana

Instructions:

1. Finely dice 1/2 cup of berries and set aside.
2. Blend remaining berries, protein powder, milk and bananas until smooth.
3. Set out the Popsicle molds and put a few of the sliced berries in each mold. If no molds are on hand, small cups or an ice cube tray can be used.
4. Pour the Popsicle mixture on top of the berries.
5. Insert Popsicle sticks into each serving.
6. Freeze at least four hours or until firm.

Chocolate Protein Cookies

This recipe uses coconut flour and Brazil nuts instead of wheat, so it is gluten-free as long as a gluten-free powder is used.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup chocolate pea protein powder
• 1/4 cup coconut flour
• 1/2 tsp. baking soda
• 1/4 cup dried coconut flakes
• 1/4 cup ground Brazil nuts
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 340 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Mix together protein powder, flour, baking soda, coconut flakes and ground nuts in a large bowl.
3. Mix together milk and egg in a small bowl.
4. Slowly add milk mixture to protein powder mixture, stirring to combine the entire time.
5. Gently fold in chocolate chips.
6. Divide cookie batter into 12 equal balls and put them on a parchment-lined cookie sheet.
7. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until cookies are firm but slightly soft in the center.
8. Cool completely and serve.

Cinnamon Protein Powder Oats

Adding protein powder to a morning bowl of oatmeal might seem like a great idea, but many people realize that it can be quite tricky. Using whey protein with super-high heat can lead to curdling that causes an unpleasant texture to form. Follow these steps to make a filling bowl of oatmeal that also contains plenty of protein.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 chopped apple
• 1 cup almond milk
• 1/2 cup vanilla whey protein powder
• 1 tsp. cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Combine rolled oats, cinnamon sticks, apple and milk in a small pot.
2. Place pot over medium-high heat until it boils.
3. Turn heat down until the oatmeal simmers.
4. Let the oatmeal cook, anywhere from five to 15 minutes, until it reaches desired level of softness.
5. Remove from heat and gently stir in whey.
6. Serve topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Nutty Protein Powder Bites

Those who are bored of eating plain protein powder or dry granola bars will enjoy this snack. These protein balls taste delicious, and they contain plenty of healthy fats. They can be stored at room temperature for quite a while, so they are a great protein boost on a hike. If desired, these protein bites can be customized with any tasty mix-in.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup whey protein powder
• 1 cup nut butter
• 1/4 cup agave nectar
• 1 - 2 Tbs. coconut oil
• 1/4 cup coconut flakes, crushed nuts, dried fruits or other mix-ins

Instructions:

1. Place all ingredients, except coconut oil, in a bowl and stir to combine.
2. Start with 1 Tbs. of coconut oil and slowly add more if the mixture seems dry.
3. Divide mixture into 1/8-cup size portions and roll into firm balls.
4. Store in an airtight container until ready to eat.

Chocolate Pumpkin Muffins

Instead of flour, these muffins get their moist and cakey texture from protein powder and applesauce. The combination of pumpkin and oats ensures that they contain plenty of heart-healthy fiber, and the yogurt and protein powder provide extra protein. Even people not watching their protein intake will enjoy the warm and cozy taste of pumpkin spice and chocolate in these muffins. 

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh pumpkin puree
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 cup applesauce
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
• 1 cup raw sugar
• 1 1/2 Tbs. cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 4 tsp. baking powder
• 1 tsp. baking soda
• 1/4 tsp. nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp. ground allspice
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips
• 3 1/2 cups oats

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a muffin tin.
2. Combine all ingredients besides oats in a large bowl.
3. Use a food processor to puree the oats until fine.
4. Mix the oat powder in with the rest of the ingredients.
5. Divide batter into muffin tins.
6. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until muffins have risen and lightly browned.