Description
If you grew up enjoying those gooey, chocolatey Little Debbie Cosmic Brownies, you’re going to love this clean and creative twist: Healthy Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pitted Medjool dates (soaked in warm water for 10 minutes if dry)
- ½ cup natural almond butter or peanut butter
- ½ cup chocolate protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk (adjust as needed for texture)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseed meal (optional for fiber)
- Pinch of sea salt
- 1 tablespoon rainbow sprinkles (for that classic “Cosmic” vibe)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the dates
If your dates are firm or dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry. This helps create a smooth, sticky base.
Step 2: Blend the base
Add dates, nut butter, vanilla, and a pinch of sea salt to the food processor. Blend until a smooth paste forms.
Step 3: Add dry ingredients
Add the protein powder, cocoa powder, and chia seeds (if using). Pulse until the mixture forms a thick, moldable dough. If it’s too dry, add 1–2 tablespoons of almond milk to loosen it.
Step 4: Mix in the extras
Stir in chocolate chips and sprinkles by hand. Don’t over-mix—you want the sprinkles to stay vibrant.
Step 5: Roll into bites
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll between your palms to form balls. Place on a baking sheet or plate.
Step 6: Set and store
Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to help them firm up. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or in the freezer for 1–2 months.
Notes
Use soft, fresh Medjool dates for the smoothest texture. If using Deglet Noor or firmer dates, always soak them.
Don’t overprocess. Blend just enough to bring the mixture together; over-blending can make it greasy.
Add liquid slowly. You want a dough that holds together but isn’t sticky or wet.
For extra crunch, roll bites in crushed nuts, cacao nibs, or coconut flakes.
- Prep Time: 10
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16 bites
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 7 g (mostly from dates)
- Fat: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
Keywords: Healthy Cosmic Brownie Protein Bites