Single-Serve High Protein Brownie

Introduction

Single-Serve High Protein Brownie combines indulgence and nutrition in a single serving, making it the perfect treat for anyone seeking a protein boost without compromising on taste. With rich chocolate flavor, this brownie delivers a satisfying, fudgy texture while packing a punch of protein to fuel your day. Whether you’re after a post-workout snack or a sweet fix, this brownie hits the spot.

I make this brownie by mixing ingredients like protein powder, cocoa, and a touch of sweetener, and then bake it to perfection. The aroma of chocolate fills the kitchen as it bakes, creating an irresistible pull toward the oven. Once baked, I enjoy its dense, chewy texture and rich chocolate taste that satisfies my cravings while keeping me energized. Each bite offers the perfect balance of sweetness and indulgence.

The best part? This recipe is flexible. You can add nuts for crunch, a dollop of peanut butter, or even a sprinkle of sea salt to elevate the flavor. This Single-Serve High Protein Brownie isn’t just a treat; it’s a delicious way to power up your day while enjoying every bite.

Perfect for:

Post-workout snack
A quick dessert
A sweet snack without the guilt
Satisfying chocolate cravings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why the Single-Serve High Protein Brownie is a must-try:

High in Protein: Packed with protein to help fuel your muscles and keep you satisfied.
Decadent Chocolate Flavor: Rich, fudgy, and full of chocolatey goodness.
Quick and Easy: Whip it up in minutes with minimal prep and cleanup.
Low in Sugar: Skip the excess sugar while still enjoying a sweet, satisfying treat.
Customizable: Add in your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit to make it your own.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 15 minutes
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 1
Calories: Approximately 200-250 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Fiber: 3g, Sugars: 10g

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

2 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (or almond flour for a gluten-free version)
1 tablespoon protein powder (vanilla or chocolate flavor)
¼ teaspoon baking powder
Pinch of salt

Wet Ingredients:

1 tablespoon almond butter (or peanut butter)
1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Add-Ins:

1 tablespoon chocolate chips
A few chopped walnuts or almonds

Ingredient Highlights

Protein Powder: Boosts the protein content and makes the brownie filling.
Cocoa Powder: Adds that rich, deep chocolate flavor.
Almond Butter: Creates a moist, fudgy texture while providing healthy fats.
Maple Syrup: Sweetens the brownie without using refined sugar.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Batter:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a small oven-safe dish (such as a ramekin) or line it with parchment paper.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the cocoa powder, flour, protein powder, baking powder, and salt.
Add Wet Ingredients: In the same bowl, whisk together the almond butter, maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine: Stir until the mixture is well combined and smooth.

Bake and Serve:

Transfer to Dish: Pour the batter into your prepared ramekin or baking dish.
Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should look set and slightly cracked.
Cool: Let the brownie cool for a few minutes before enjoying.

How to Serve

Enjoy your Single-Serve High Protein Brownie in these delicious ways:

Warm with a Dollop of Yogurt: Top with Greek yogurt for added protein and a creamy contrast.
A Scoop of Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent treat, add a scoop of vanilla or chocolate protein ice cream.
With Fresh Fruit: Top with berries or banana slices for a fresh, sweet contrast.
As a Post-Workout Fuel: Pair with a protein shake to meet your post-workout needs.

Additional Tips

For extra richness, you can add a tablespoon of unsweetened applesauce to the batter.
If you don’t have protein powder, you can substitute with an extra tablespoon of cocoa powder or flour, but you will lose some protein content.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup based on your preference.
If you want an even fudgier brownie, slightly underbake it and allow it to set as it cools.
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Recipe Variation

Add Chocolate Chips: For an extra indulgent touch, I stir in some chocolate chips. Whether I choose dark, milk, or semi-sweet, the chips melt slightly during baking, creating pockets of gooey chocolate goodness that elevate the flavor. This is a great option if I’m looking to make a more dessert-like muffin or want to satisfy my chocolate cravings. I can also experiment by using mini chocolate chips for a more evenly distributed chocolatey bite throughout the muffin.
Replace Almond Butter with Peanut Butter: If I want a different flavor profile, I replace almond butter with creamy peanut butter. The peanut butter adds a richer, more savory taste compared to almond butter, and it complements the other ingredients with its distinct nuttiness. This swap also creates a heartier texture in the muffins. I love the balance of sweetness and saltiness that peanut butter brings, making it an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys a classic peanut butter and chocolate combo or a simple nutty flavor.
Mix in Chopped Walnuts, Almonds, or Dried Fruit: To add texture and crunch, I mix in chopped nuts like walnuts, almonds, or even pecans. These nuts not only provide extra crunch but also add healthy fats and protein. For a different texture and a touch of sweetness, I often toss in some dried fruit like cherries, cranberries, or raisins. The dried fruit softens during baking, offering bursts of sweetness that pair perfectly with the nutty elements. The combination of nuts and dried fruit makes these muffins feel more like a wholesome snack or even a light meal.
For a Dairy-Free Version: To make these muffins completely dairy-free, I use a dairy-free protein powder and substitute non-dairy milk (like almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk) for regular milk. If I’m using yogurt as a moisture booster, I opt for a dairy-free version, like coconut or almond milk yogurt. This ensures the muffins are suitable for those following a dairy-free lifestyle, while still maintaining their rich, delicious flavor and texture.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing: To preserve the brownie for later enjoyment, I first let it cool completely at room temperature. Once it’s fully cooled, I wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep out air and moisture, then wrap it again in aluminum foil for an added layer of protection. This double wrapping helps prevent freezer burn and keeps the brownie fresh for up to 2 months in the freezer. When I’m ready to enjoy the brownie, I let it thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture, or I can let it thaw at room temperature for a quicker option. If I’m craving a warm, freshly baked taste, I simply pop it in the microwave for a few seconds or heat it in the oven for a few minutes.
Storage: For short-term storage, I keep the brownie at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This helps maintain its softness and prevents it from drying out. If I want to extend its shelf life, I refrigerate the brownie in an airtight container, which can keep it fresh for an additional 2-3 days. If I’m storing multiple pieces, I sometimes layer them with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. For the best taste and texture, I recommend enjoying the brownie within the first couple of days of baking, as it will stay at its most delicious freshness.

Special Equipment

This recipe requires minimal equipment, but having the right tools can help:

Small mixing bowl for combining ingredients
Whisk or spoon for stirring the batter
Small oven-safe dish or ramekin for baking
Toothpick to check for doneness

FAQ Section

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute almond flour for the all-purpose flour.

Can I use a different type of protein powder?
Absolutely! You can use any flavor or type of protein powder you prefer. Just be mindful that flavors like chocolate or vanilla may work best.

How do I know when the brownie is done?
When a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the brownie is ready.

Can I make this without an oven?
Yes! You can microwave the batter in a microwave-safe mug or ramekin for 1-2 minutes. Check every 30 seconds to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

Whip up a Single-Serve High Protein Brownie and enjoy a rich, indulgent treat that’s packed with protein to fuel your day. This brownie is the perfect balance of decadence and nutrition, offering a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth while staying on track with your fitness goals. The easy recipe allows you to enjoy a warm, gooey brownie in no time, making it a great snack or post-workout treat.

Get creative by adding in some chocolate chips, nuts, or even a scoop of your favorite protein powder for extra flavor and texture. Whether you enjoy it plain or with a dollop of Greek yogurt, this brownie is sure to become your go-to single-serve dessert.

Bake one today, enjoy it fresh out of the oven, and feel good knowing you’re treating yourself to something nutritious. Snap a photo of your creation and share it on Instagram—tag me so we can celebrate your delicious success. Happy baking!