A Delicious & Nutritious Protein-Packed Snack
Who doesn’t love cookie dough? That nostalgic taste of sweet, soft, and chewy goodness is a guilty pleasure for many. But what if you could indulge in your favorite treat while staying on track with your health and fitness goals? Enter High-Protein Yogurt Cookie Dough Cups—a creamy, protein-rich snack that is both satisfying and nutritious.
These frozen treats combine a smooth, peanut butter-infused yogurt layer with a deliciously soft cookie dough center, making them perfect for post-workout refueling, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a healthy dessert alternative. Not only are they easy to make, but they also pack a punch of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients to keep you energized throughout the day.
Let’s dive into why these High-Protein Yogurt Cookie Dough Cups should be your next go-to healthy treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in Protein: Each serving provides a good dose of protein, essential for muscle recovery and overall satiety.
- Guilt-Free Treat: Made with whole, nutrient-dense ingredients and free from refined sugars.
- Dairy-Free Option: Perfect for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer dairy-free alternatives.
- Quick & Easy: Takes just 15 minutes to prepare before freezing.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week.
Ingredients Breakdown & Health Benefits
Each ingredient in this recipe has been carefully selected to provide a balance of flavor, nutrition, and texture. Let’s take a closer look at what makes these yogurt cookie dough cups a powerhouse snack:
Yogurt Mixture:
- Dairy-Free Yogurt (1 3/4 cups):
- Provides probiotics for gut health.
- Offers a creamy texture without the need for dairy.
- Peanut Butter (1/4 cup):
- Rich in healthy fats and protein to keep you full longer.
- Adds a nutty, indulgent flavor.
- Vanilla Protein Powder (1/3 cup):
- Enhances the protein content, making this snack more satiating.
- Aids muscle recovery after workouts.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp):
- Enhances sweetness and rounds out the flavors.
- Unsweetened Chocolate Chips (1/3 cup):
- A source of antioxidants and a rich, satisfying chocolate flavor.
Cookie Dough:
- Protein Powder (1/2 cup):
- Contributes to muscle growth and keeps you feeling full.
- Oat Flour (1/3 cup):
- Adds fiber, making this snack great for digestion.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp):
- Enhances the flavor profile.
- Dairy-Free Milk (1/4 cup, adjust as needed):
- Helps bind the dough, adding a creamy texture.
- Maple Syrup (3 tbsp):
- A natural sweetener that provides a touch of caramel-like flavor.
- Chocolate Chips (1/4 – 1/3 cup):
- Adds that classic cookie dough appeal with a dose of indulgence.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Yogurt Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine dairy-free yogurt, peanut butter, vanilla protein powder, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Layer the Muffin Cups
Line a muffin tin with parchment paper liners. Spoon a bottom layer of the yogurt mixture into each cup, ensuring you reserve some for the top layer.
Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough
In a separate bowl, mix protein powder, oat flour, vanilla extract, dairy-free milk, maple syrup, and chocolate chips until a dough-like consistency is achieved. Adjust the amount of milk as needed for the perfect texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Cups
Form small cookie dough bites and place them evenly on top of the yogurt layer in each muffin cup.
Step 5: Add the Final Yogurt Layer
Spoon the remaining yogurt mixture over the cookie dough bites, ensuring they are fully covered.
Step 6: Freeze Until Set
Place the muffin tin in the freezer for several hours or until solid. Once frozen, transfer the yogurt cookie dough cups to an airtight container for storage.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Before eating, let the cups thaw for a few minutes for a creamier texture. Enjoy your high-protein, guilt-free cookie dough treat!
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: If you prefer a softer texture, store them in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Keep them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Thawing: Remove from the freezer and let sit for 5-10 minutes before enjoying.
Nutritional Benefits of High-Protein Yogurt Cookie Dough Cups
These cookie dough cups aren’t just delicious—they’re packed with health benefits!
- Supports Muscle Growth & Recovery: The combination of protein powder, yogurt, and peanut butter provides the necessary amino acids to support muscle recovery and maintenance.
- Balances Blood Sugar: Unlike traditional sugary snacks, these cups offer a mix of protein, healthy fats, and fiber to prevent sugar spikes.
- Gut Health Boosting: The dairy-free yogurt provides probiotics that support digestion and gut flora.
- Energy-Boosting: With the right mix of complex carbs, protein, and healthy fats, these cups provide sustained energy throughout the day.
- Nutrient-Dense: Oat flour provides fiber, while chocolate chips offer antioxidants.
Customization & Flavor Variations
The best part about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are a few ways you can switch things up:
1. Nut-Free Option:
- Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini.
2. Different Sweeteners:
- Swap maple syrup with honey, agave, or date syrup for a different flavor.
3. Add Crunch:
- Mix in chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra texture.
4. Flavor Twists:
- Try chocolate protein powder instead of vanilla for a rich, chocolatey flavor.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder for depth.
When to Enjoy High-Protein Yogurt Cookie Dough Cups
These nutritious treats are perfect for:
✔ Post-Workout Recovery – A quick protein-packed snack to refuel muscles. ✔ Breakfast on the Go – Grab one for a satisfying morning meal. ✔ Afternoon Pick-Me-Up – A great way to beat the mid-day slump. ✔ Healthy Dessert – A guilt-free alternative to satisfy your sweet tooth. ✔ Meal Prepping – Make a batch ahead for a week’s worth of healthy snacks.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a delicious, easy-to-make, and high-protein snack, these High-Protein Yogurt Cookie Dough Cups are a must-try. Not only do they bring together the best of cookie dough and yogurt, but they also provide the right balance of nutrients to fuel your day.
Give this recipe a try and let us know how you like it! Tag your friends who NEED this healthy treat in their lives. 🍪💪
Print🍪 High-Protein Yogurt Cookie Dough Cups – A Sweet & Healthy Treat!
- Total Time: Several hours
- Yield: 6-9 cups (depending on size) 1x
Ingredients
Yogurt Mixture:
- 1 ¾ cups dairy-free yogurt
- ¼ cup peanut butter
- ⅓ cup vanilla protein powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup unsweetened chocolate chips
Cookie Dough:
- ½ cup protein powder
- ⅓ cup oat flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup dairy-free milk (adjust for texture)
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- ¼ – ⅓ cup chocolate chips
Instructions
1️⃣ In a bowl, mix yogurt, peanut butter, vanilla protein powder, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2️⃣ Line a muffin tin with parchment cups and spoon a layer of the yogurt mixture into each cup.
3️⃣ In another bowl, combine protein powder, oat flour, vanilla, dairy-free milk, maple syrup, and chocolate chips to form cookie dough.
4️⃣ Roll into small bites and place them on top of the yogurt layer.
5️⃣ Cover with the remaining yogurt mixture.
6️⃣ Freeze for a few hours until solid.
7️⃣ Store in a sealed container in the freezer. Let thaw slightly before eating for a creamy texture!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 180-220 kcal per cup
- Fat: 7-9g per cup
- Carbohydrates: 18-22g per cup
- Protein: 12-15g per cup