Creating these Protein Brownie Bites is easy! Simply follow these steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, protein powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Combine Mixture: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a thick batter forms.
5. Fold in Chocolate Chips: If using, fold in the dark chocolate chips for added chocolate goodness.
6. Scoop Batter: Using a small cookie scoop or a spoon, fill the mini muffin tin with the brownie batter, filling each cup about three-quarters full.
7. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer the brownie bites to a wire rack to cool completely.