These Protein Cookies (4 Ingredients!) are the perfect treat for anyone looking to indulge without the guilt. With just four simple ingredients, you can whip up these thick and chewy cookies that taste amazing and deliver over 20 grams of protein per serving! Ideal for a quick snack, post-workout treat, or even as a breakfast option, these cookies are a versatile addition to your healthy eating plan. Plus, they contain no flour and no sugar, making them a great choice for those mindful of their dietary intake.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- Main Ingredients
- How to Make Protein Cookies (4 Ingredients!)
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Combine Ingredients
- Step 3: Shape the Cookies
- Step 4: Bake
- Step 5: Cool
- How to Serve Protein Cookies (4 Ingredients!)
- With Fresh Fruit
- With Yogurt
- As an Ice Cream Sandwich
- Drizzled with Nut Butter
- How to Perfect Protein Cookies (4 Ingredients!)
- Best Side Dishes for Protein Cookies (4 Ingredients!)
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Protein Cookies (4 Ingredients!)
- Reheating Protein Cookies (4 Ingredients!)
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What are Protein Cookies (4 Ingredients!)?
- Can I make these protein cookies without eggs?
- How do I customize my Protein Cookies (4 Ingredients!)?
- Are these protein cookies suitable for meal prep?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: These cookies come together in just 5 minutes of prep time, making them a breeze to whip up anytime.
- High Protein Content: With over 20 grams of protein per cookie, they provide an excellent fuel boost for your day.
- No Flour Needed: Say goodbye to heavy flour-based recipes; these cookies are naturally gluten-free!
- Customizable Flavor: Add chocolate chips or nuts to personalize your cookies, creating your unique flavor combination.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients like peanut butter and a brown sugar substitute to keep things nutritious.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making these delicious protein cookies, gather your tools and get ready for some easy baking!
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Cookie sheet or baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: This is where all the magic happens! A sturdy bowl helps combine your ingredients easily.
- Cookie sheet or baking tray: A good-quality tray ensures even baking and easy removal of your cookies.
- Parchment paper: Line your tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup effortless.
Ingredients
These protein cookies are thick, chewy, and made with just 4 ingredients! No flour and no sugar needed; they taste delicious and pack in over 20 grams of protein!
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter ( See notes)
- 2/3 cup brown sugar substitute ( See notes)
- 1 large egg ( See notes for eggless option)
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
How to Make Protein Cookies (4 Ingredients!)
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious protein cookies.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 180C/350F. Line a cookie sheet or baking tray with parchment paper and set aside.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a small mixing bowl, combine all your ingredients:
1. Add the peanut butter.
2. Mix in the brown sugar substitute.
3. Crack in the egg.
4. Stir in the vanilla protein powder until well combined.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Using your hands:
1. Form 12 balls of cookie dough from the mixture.
2. Place them on the lined sheet.
3. Press down on each ball to shape it into a cookie.
Step 4: Bake
Bake the cookies for 12-14 minutes or until the edges begin to brown.
Step 5: Cool
Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet completely before enjoying!
With just these simple steps, you’ll have delicious protein-packed snacks ready in no time!
How to Serve Protein Cookies (4 Ingredients!)
These protein cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a quick snack or a post-workout treat, these cookies fit the bill perfectly.
With Fresh Fruit
- Banana Slices: Top your protein cookie with fresh banana slices for added sweetness and nutrients.
- Berries: Serve alongside strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing contrast.
With Yogurt
- Greek Yogurt: Pair with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a protein-packed breakfast or snack.
- Flavored Yogurt: Use flavored yogurt to enhance the taste of your protein cookies.
As an Ice Cream Sandwich
- Ice Cream Filling: Place a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two protein cookies for a delicious treat.
Drizzled with Nut Butter
- Peanut Butter Drizzle: A light drizzle of warm peanut butter adds richness and flavor.
- Almond Butter: Try almond butter for a different nutty taste that complements the cookies well.

How to Perfect Protein Cookies (4 Ingredients!)
To ensure your protein cookies turn out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the dough mix better, leading to an even texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Combine the ingredients just until mixed; overmixing can make them tough.
- Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking; ovens vary, and slight adjustments may be necessary.
- Cool Completely on the Sheet: Letting them cool on the baking sheet keeps them chewy and prevents crumbling.
Best Side Dishes for Protein Cookies (4 Ingredients!)
Pairing side dishes with your protein cookies can elevate your snack experience. Here are some great options to consider:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds color and freshness to your plate.
- Nut Trail Mix: A handful of nuts provides healthy fats and crunch that complements the chewy texture of the cookies.
- Cheese Platter: Serve with sliced cheese for a savory contrast that balances sweetness.
- Protein Smoothie: Blend up a smoothie loaded with fruits and spinach for a nutritious pairing.
- Oatmeal Bowl: Enjoy with oatmeal topped with honey and nuts for extra fiber and energy.
- Veggie Sticks and Hummus: Crisp veggie sticks provide crunch and nutrients, making it a balanced snack option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
These protein cookies are simple to make, but a few common mistakes can affect the results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using the wrong peanut butter: Natural peanut butter works best. Avoid brands with added sugars or oils, as they can alter the texture.
- Skipping the egg or substitute: The egg acts as a binder. If you need an eggless option, use a flax egg for similar results.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make the cookies tough. Stir just until combined for a chewy texture.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons. Incorrect measurements can lead to dry or overly wet cookies.
- Baking at the wrong temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated correctly. Baking at too high or too low of a temperature can affect the cookie’s texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- These cookies will last up to 1 week in the fridge.
Freezing Protein Cookies (4 Ingredients!)
- Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe container; they will last up to 3 months.
Reheating Protein Cookies (4 Ingredients!)
- Oven: Preheat to 180C/350F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds for a soft texture.
- Stovetop: Use a pan over low heat, covering it briefly to warm through evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about these protein cookies that may help you:
What are Protein Cookies (4 Ingredients!)?
Protein Cookies (4 Ingredients!) are simple treats made with peanut butter, brown sugar substitute, eggs, and protein powder. They are healthy and delicious!
Can I make these protein cookies without eggs?
Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flax egg. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5 minutes until it thickens.
How do I customize my Protein Cookies (4 Ingredients!)?
Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or different flavored protein powders to enhance your cookies’ flavor and nutrition.
Are these protein cookies suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! These cookies store well and can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for snacks throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
These Protein Cookies (4 Ingredients!) are not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for any snack craving. With customization options such as adding nuts or dried fruits, you can make them your own. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a healthy treat that satisfies your sweet tooth!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Protein Cookies (4 Ingredients!)
- Total Time: 19 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 cookies 1x
Description
Protein Cookies (4 Ingredients!) are your go-to treat for a delightful indulgence that doesn’t compromise your health goals. In just five minutes of prep time, you can create these thick and chewy cookies that not only satisfy your sweet cravings but also pack a whopping 20 grams of protein per serving. Perfect as a quick snack, post-workout fuel, or even for breakfast, these cookies are versatile and nutritious. They contain no flour or sugar, making them an ideal option for anyone mindful of their dietary choices. Customize them with chocolate chips or nuts for an extra flavor boost!
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 2/3 cup brown sugar substitute
- 1 large egg (or flax egg for eggless option)
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180C/350F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, brown sugar substitute, egg, and protein powder until smooth.
- Form the mixture into 12 balls and place them on the lined baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Allow to cool completely before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (approx. 40g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 30mg