Description
These No Bake Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites are a delicious and nutritious treat perfect for a quick snack or post-workout boost. Made with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, cacao powder, almond or cashew butter, and chocolate protein powder, they deliver rich chocolate flavor and protein without the need for baking. The recipe includes a creamy chocolate ganache topping and a sprinkle of all-natural sprinkles for a fun cosmic touch. Simply process, press, chill, and enjoy these easy-to-make, gluten-free, and vegetarian-friendly protein bites.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1/2 cup organic rolled oats
- 1/2 cup cacao powder
- 1/3 cup almond or cashew butter (avoid peanut butter)
- 1/2 cup + 2 tbsp chocolate protein powder (plant-based recommended)
- 6 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Good pinch sea salt
- 1-2 tbsp milk, as needed
Chocolate Ganache Option 1
- 3/4 cup chocolate bars, chopped or chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup + 1 tbsp full-fat canned coconut milk
- All-natural sprinkles
Chocolate Ganache Option 2
- 3/4 cup raw cacao powder
- 3/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted
- Pinch sea salt
- All-natural sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Base: Add the rolled oats to a food processor and pulse until they resemble flour, although a few chunks of oats are fine. Next, add the cacao powder, almond or cashew butter, chocolate protein powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a good pinch of sea salt. Process until a dough forms that sticks together, slightly sticky is expected. If the dough feels too dry, add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it holds together well.
- Shape the Brownies: Line a loaf pan or square baking dish with parchment paper. Transfer the brownie dough into the pan. Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking and press the dough evenly into the pan, flattening the surface thoroughly.
- Alternative Brownie Base (No Oats): For a no-oats version, combine all the brownie base ingredients in a food processor or bowl and blend until combined. Press into the pan similarly. If the mixture is overly dry, add milk gradually to help it hold together.
- Make Chocolate Ganache Option 1: Place the canned coconut milk in a heatproof bowl and microwave for 30 seconds until warmed. Add the chopped chocolate bars or chocolate chips, ensuring they are submerged in the warm coconut milk. Cover the bowl with a plate and let it sit undisturbed for 10 minutes. Then stir the mixture until smooth and ganache-like in consistency.
- Apply Ganache Option 1: Pour the prepared ganache evenly over the brownie base and sprinkle with all-natural sprinkles. Place the pan in the freezer for 2-3 hours to set fully before slicing into bars.
- Make Chocolate Ganache Option 2: In a bowl, combine melted coconut oil, raw cacao powder, maple syrup, and a pinch of sea salt. Whisk thoroughly until smooth and well-combined.
- Apply Ganache Option 2: Pour this ganache over the brownie base and top with sprinkles. Freeze for at least one hour or until the ganache is firmly set before cutting the brownies into pieces.
Notes
- Use plant-based chocolate protein powder, as whey protein may not bind well in this recipe.
- You can substitute almond butter with cashew butter, but peanut butter is not recommended due to flavor and texture.
- If the dough feels too dry during mixing, add milk a tablespoon at a time until it achieves the right sticky consistency.
- For best results, freeze the brownies for the recommended times to allow firm setting.
- Adjust sweetness by slightly reducing or increasing maple syrup according to taste.
- All-natural sprinkles add fun texture and decoration but can be omitted if desired.
- Store leftovers in the freezer to maintain freshness and firmness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: No-Bake Protein Snacks
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
