What happens if you add protein powder to brownie mix?

Adding protein powder to a brownie mix boosts the protein content, making your dessert more filling and supportive of muscle repair. However, it can also affect the texture—too much powder can dry out the brownies. That’s why a carefully balanced protein brownie recipe includes moistening ingredients like banana, yogurt, or nut butter to keep the texture rich and fudgy.

What are the benefits of protein brownies?

Protein brownies offer a delicious way to meet your daily protein goals without relying on shakes or bars. They’re ideal for post-workout recovery, balanced snacking, and curbing sweet cravings in a healthier way. A good protein brownie recipe also includes fiber and healthy fats, supporting better digestion and longer-lasting energy.

What are the 4 ingredients in protein brownies?

The core four ingredients in a basic protein brownie recipe are: Protein powder – adds muscle-supporting nutrients Nut butter – provides moisture and healthy fat Mashed banana or applesauce – natural sweetness and binding Unsweetened cocoa powder – deep chocolate flavor without added sugar These simple components make it easy to bake brownies that are clean, rich, and high in nutritional value.

Why are my protein brownies dry?

Protein brownies can turn out dry if there’s too much protein powder, not enough moisture, or if they’re overbaked. The type of protein powder matters too—plant-based varieties absorb more liquid than whey. To fix this, tweak your protein brownie recipe by adding almond milk, banana, or Greek yogurt to restore softness and moisture.

Protein Brownie Recipe – The Best 4-Ingredient High-Protein Treat

Description

This protein brownie recipe is rich, fudgy, and packed with 10g of protein per square—made with just 4 clean ingredients like chocolate protein powder, nut butter, and banana. It’s perfect for meal prep, post-workout snacks, or a healthier dessert you’ll crave again and again.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients:
½ cup chocolate protein powder (whey, pea, or plant-based blend)
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup natural peanut butter (or almond butter)
½ cup mashed banana (or unsweetened applesauce)
2 tbsp maple syrup (or honey)
2 tbsp oat flour (optional – adds body if batter is too loose)
½ tsp baking powder
1 pinch sea salt
2–4 tbsp unsweetened almond milk (adjust for consistency)
Optional Add-ins & Toppings:
2 tbsp dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp crushed walnuts or almonds
1 tbsp chia seeds or hemp hearts
Swirl of extra nut butter on top

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8×8 baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with coconut oil.
Mix the wet ingredients.
In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed banana, peanut butter, maple syrup, and 2 tablespoons of almond milk until smooth and creamy.
Add dry ingredients.
Fold in the chocolate protein powder, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and oat flour (if using). Stir until just combined. If the batter is too thick, add 1–2 more tablespoons of almond milk.
Customize your brownies.
Gently stir in optional add-ins like dark chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a swirl of nut butter on top for extra flavor and texture.
Pour and spread the batter.
Transfer the brownie batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly using a spatula.
Bake for 18–22 minutes.
Check doneness by inserting a toothpick—it should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter.
Cool and slice.
Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 10–15 minutes. Then lift them out using the parchment paper and slice into 9 squares.
Store and enjoy.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.

Notes

You can use unsweetened applesauce in place of banana, and swap peanut butter for almond or sunflower seed butter. If using vegan protein powder, add a bit more liquid to avoid dryness. These freeze well for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: High-Protein Recipes
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American