This Peanut Butter Chickpea Protein Cookie Dough is super creamy and packed with protein! It’s a fun treat that you don’t even have to bake—just mix and enjoy!
Plus, who wouldn’t love a cookie dough you can eat with a spoon? I always end up sneaking bites straight from the bowl. It’s secretly healthy and oh-so-yummy! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: These are the star ingredient, packed with protein and fiber. If you’re looking for a different base, you can experiment with white beans like cannellini for a similar texture.
Peanut Butter: Natural peanut butter brings great flavor. You can substitute it with almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter if you’re allergic to nuts.
Sweetener: Maple syrup adds sweetness and depth. Honey is a fine choice too. For a lower-calorie option, you might try agave nectar or a sugar-free syrup.
Oat Flour: If you don’t have oat flour, simply blend rolled oats until fine. Gluten-free oats work well here too, ensuring everyone can enjoy this treat.
Chocolate Chips: Mini dark chocolate chips are perfect for mixing in. You could use carob chips, dried fruit, or leave them out for a simple cookie dough flavor.
How Can You Make the Smoothest Cookie Dough?
Achieving a creamy cookie dough starts with how well you blend your ingredients. Here’s how to do it right:
- Rinse and drain chickpeas thoroughly before blending. This helps eliminate excess sodium and improves texture.
- Blend chickpeas with peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla until completely smooth. Don’t rush this step; a minute or two makes a difference.
- Add oat flour and protein powder gradually to prevent clumping. You want it to form a dough without being overly sticky.
- If the mix gets too thick, a splash of almond milk can help loosen it up. Just add a little at a time!
By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your cookie dough is not only smooth but also deliciously satisfying. Enjoy creating your healthy treat!
Peanut Butter Chickpea Protein Cookie Dough
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (creamy or crunchy based on preference)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup oat flour (or finely ground oats)
- 1/4 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
- 1/3 cup mini dark chocolate chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This no-bake treat takes about 10 minutes to prepare. If you choose to refrigerate it for a firmer texture, add an extra 30 minutes. Altogether, you’ll be enjoying this delicious cookie dough in just over 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blend the Base:
In a food processor or a powerful blender, pop in your rinsed chickpeas, creamy peanut butter, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and salt. Blend everything until you have a super smooth and creamy mix. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides occasionally to ensure everything is blended well!
2. Mix in the Dry Ingredients:
After you’ve achieved a smooth base, add in the oat flour and protein powder. Pulse or mix just until these dry ingredients are fully combined into the dough, which should have a nice, thick consistency. If it feels a bit sticky, just sprinkle in some extra oat flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired thickness.
3. Add Some Chocolate Chips:
Transfer your cookie dough to a mixing bowl where you’ll gently fold in the mini dark chocolate chips. Make sure they’re evenly mixed throughout so every bite has that delightful chocolatey goodness!
4. Serve or Chill:
You can dive right in and enjoy this yummy cookie dough as a dip for fruit or just from the bowl! If you’d like it a bit colder and firmer, pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes first.
5. Store Your Leftovers:
If there are any leftovers (which might be rare!), place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. Perfect for a quick snack anytime!
This delicious cookie dough isn’t just a tasty treat; it’s also packed with protein and fiber, ensuring you can indulge without the guilt. Enjoy your healthy sweet fix!
Can I Use Canned Chickpeas Instead of Dried?
Absolutely! Canned chickpeas are perfect for this recipe since they’re already cooked. Just make sure to rinse and drain them well before using to get rid of excess sodium and improve the flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Peanut Butter?
If you need a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter works wonderfully! You can also use almond butter or cashew butter if you’re not allergic to nuts—both will give a delicious flavor to the cookie dough.
Is There a way to Make This Recipe Vegan?
How Should I Store the Cookie Dough?
Store any leftover cookie dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can enjoy it chilled or let it come to room temperature before eating for a softer treat!
