Looking for a guilt-free treat that satisfies both your chocolate chip cookie and brownie cravings? These Brookie Protein Balls are the perfect solution! Combining the best of both worlds, these no-bake bites deliver the indulgent flavor of “brookies” (brownie-cookies) while packing a protein punch to fuel your day.
I created these protein-packed treats when I needed something that would curb my sweet tooth without derailing my fitness goals. They’re perfect for busy mornings, post-workout refueling, or whenever you need a wholesome snack that feels like a treat.
Why You’ll Love This
- No baking required – just mix, roll, and refrigerate!
- Perfect balance of brownie richness and cookie dough texture
- Protein-packed to keep you satisfied between meals
- Kid-friendly treat that’s actually nutritious
- Make ahead and store for grab-and-go snacking all week
Ingredients
- 1 cup drippy cashew butter
- 1/2 cup vanilla pea protein
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons milk of choice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips
- 3 tablespoons cacao powder
Instructions
- Combine cashew butter, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Add protein powder and mix until no clumps remain.
- Divide batter between two bowls. Add chocolate chips to one, cacao powder and remaining chips to other.
- Make 16 small balls from each mixture. Combine one of each to form brookie balls.
Tips & Variations
- For a cookie-dough version, skip the cocoa powder and use vanilla protein powder instead.
- Add 2 tablespoons of chopped walnuts for extra texture and healthy fats.
- Replace almond butter with peanut butter or sunflower seed butter for different flavor profiles.
- Roll in crushed freeze-dried raspberries for a fruity twist.
- Make them more indulgent by drizzling with melted dark chocolate after chilling.
- For a lower sugar option, use sugar-free chocolate chips and a monk fruit sweetener.
Serving Suggestions
These Brookie Protein Balls are perfect on their own as a quick snack, but they also pair wonderfully with your morning coffee or afternoon tea. For a more substantial breakfast, serve alongside a Greek yogurt parfait or fresh fruit for a balanced start to your day.
They also make a great addition to lunch boxes or as a post-workout recovery snack when you need something satisfying but not too heavy.
Notes
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 7 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- The protein balls will firm up more after being refrigerated overnight.
- For best texture, allow frozen balls to thaw for 10 minutes before eating.
- These protein balls provide approximately 5-7g of protein per serving, depending on your protein powder.
FAQs
Can I make these protein balls without protein powder?
Yes! Replace the protein powder with an equal amount of oat flour or almond flour, though the protein content will be lower.
Are these brookie balls gluten-free?
They can be! Just make sure to use certified gluten-free oats and check that your protein powder is gluten-free as well.
Why are my protein balls not sticking together?
If your mixture is too dry, add a bit more almond butter or almond milk, one teaspoon at a time, until the mixture holds together when pressed.
Can I use a different type of milk?
Absolutely! Any milk works well—cow’s milk, oat milk, or coconut milk are all great alternatives to almond milk.
