Name: Peanut Butter Protein Brownie Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup natural peanut butter; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chocolate protein powder; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional); additional peanut butter for drizzling (optional)

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Meet your new favorite healthy treat: the Peanut Butter Protein Brownie. This rich, chewy, and deeply chocolatey dessert combines the creamy goodness of peanut butter with a satisfying protein punch, sweetened just right and bound to become your go-to for post-workout snacks or guilt-free dessert cravings. With only a handful of pantry staples and a simple baking process, you’ll fall in love with how easily good-for-you brownies can fit into your routine.

Peanut Butter Protein Brownie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Peanut Butter Protein Brownie is wonderfully straightforward, and each ingredient plays a starring role in flavor, texture, or nutrition. From the richness of peanut butter to the sweet touch of honey and the unbeatable boost of protein powder, every component ensures these brownies feel as good as they taste.

Natural Peanut Butter: Go for the creamy, unsweetened kind for that classic nutty flavor and perfect fudgy texture.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both options lend sweetness without the need for refined sugar, so use your favorite for a hearty, wholesome taste.
Unsweetened Applesauce: Adds moisture and just a hint of fruitiness, keeping the brownies soft without extra fat.
Large Eggs: These bind the brownies together and contribute to their tender crumb.
Vanilla Extract: Just a splash lifts all the chocolate and peanut aromas, making every bite unforgettable.
Chocolate Protein Powder: The secret weapon for making these brownies satisfying enough as a healthy snack or post-gym treat.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Delivers deep chocolate flavor, balancing the sweetness and complementing the peanut butter.
Baking Powder: This tiny addition provides just the right amount of lift for a soft, not-too-dense bite.
Salt: Just a pinch heightens all the flavors, rounding out the brownie experience.
Mini Chocolate Chips (Optional): For extra pockets of rich chocolatey goodness in every bite.
Additional Peanut Butter for Drizzling (Optional): Because more peanut butter is never a bad idea! Warm it slightly for easy drizzling.

How to Make Peanut Butter Protein Brownie

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), and don’t forget to line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy brownie removal and tidy slices. This simple prep step saves you from stuck-on edges and ensures your Peanut Butter Protein Brownie will lift out without a fuss.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the natural peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), unsweetened applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and fully combined. This is where the magic starts, as these wet ingredients create the luscious base for your brownies.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Now sprinkle in the chocolate protein powder, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Stir everything together gently, just until combined. Overmixing can make brownies tough, so a light hand is key for keeping that perfect chewy texture.

Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips

If you’re in the mood for extra chocolate splendor, fold in the mini chocolate chips now. This is optional, but each melty chip brings the whole Peanut Butter Protein Brownie experience up a notch.

Step 5: Spread and Bake

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly into the corners. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, keeping a close eye near the end. When a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs, they’re ready. The hardest part: don’t overbake!

Step 6: Cool and Drizzle

Let your brownies rest in the pan for 10 minutes to set, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. If you like, melt a little extra peanut butter and drizzle it over the top for picture-perfect brownies and a little extra nutty goodness.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Protein Brownie

Garnishes

For an irresistible finishing touch, a drizzle of creamy peanut butter, a handful of mini chocolate chips, or a dusting of cocoa powder makes every slice as beautiful as it is tasty. Adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also elevate the flavors to bakery-quality heights.

Side Dishes

Peanut Butter Protein Brownie goes fantastically with a cold glass of milk, a hot mug of coffee, or even a cool protein smoothie for an extra boost post-workout. For dessert mode, try pairing with fresh berries or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be shy—cut your brownies into fun shapes, layer them into a parfait glass with yogurt and fruit, or stack them high and skewer with fresh bananas for a playful party dessert. Since these brownies travel well, they’re perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or as an eye-catching addition to your next brunch spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Peanut Butter Protein Brownie squares have cooled, stash any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. They stay moist and chewy, making them a convenient weekday snack or quick bite when your sweet tooth calls.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange the cooled brownie squares in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then pop them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to three months, so you can always have a wholesome treat at your fingertips. Just let them thaw at room temperature or microwave individually for a quick fix.

Reheating

There’s nothing like a warm Peanut Butter Protein Brownie! Microwave a square for 10-15 seconds to bring back that just-baked feel, and if you like, add a little extra peanut butter drizzle right before serving. Warmed brownies pair perfectly with your afternoon cup of coffee or a glass of milk.

FAQs

Can I make Peanut Butter Protein Brownie dairy-free?

Absolutely! Simply use plant-based protein powder and dairy-free chocolate chips if you’re adding them. The rest of the ingredients are already naturally dairy-free, so you won’t miss out on taste or texture.

What type Dessert

Chocolate protein powder gives the deepest flavor, but feel free to experiment with plain or vanilla protein if you prefer a milder brownie. Plant-based or whey both work, though plant proteins might give a slightly different (but still delicious) texture.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

Check the center with a toothpick at the minimum baking time. You’re aiming for a few moist crumbs clinging to the toothpick, but not wet batter. It’s better to underbake slightly for fudge factor than to risk a dry brownie.

Can I substitute almond butter for peanut butter?

Yes! Almond butter (or even cashew) swaps in seamlessly, giving the brownies a different but equally rich and satisfying nutty flavor. It’s a great option if you want to change things up or need to avoid peanuts.

Are these brownies kid-friendly?

Absolutely. With simple, wholesome ingredients and just enough chocolate, these brownies are a hit with kids and adults alike. They’re a fantastic lunchbox treat, after-school snack, or fun way to sneak in a little extra protein.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a treat that’s as nourishing as it is indulgent, give Peanut Butter Protein Brownie a try. With its quick prep, simple ingredients, and that unbeatable combo of chocolate and peanut butter, this recipe is just waiting to become a favorite at your table. Enjoy every bite, and happy baking!

Peanut Butter Protein Brownie Recipe

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4.7 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 9 brownies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in these decadent Peanut Butter Protein Brownies that are rich in flavor and packed with protein. A guilt-free treat that satisfies your sweet tooth while offering a boost of nutrition.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Brownies:

1/2 cup natural peanut butter
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chocolate protein powder
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
additional peanut butter for drizzling (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven and prepare the pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Mix wet ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, honey, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Add dry ingredients: Add the protein powder, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Stir until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips if using.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 18–22 minutes. Let cool before serving.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, use plant-based protein and chocolate chips.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Great as a post-workout treat or healthy dessert.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American