Looking for a cookie that’s both delicious and packed with protein?  As a Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist, I’ve got just the recipe for you! These light, fluffy treats are made with wholesome ingredients like Greek yogurt, spelt flour, and pumpkin puree, giving you a snack that’s both tasty and nourishing. They're a perfect alternative if you’re craving something a little different without sacrificing flavor!
These cookies are bursting with protein and fiber, making them a satisfying option for both kids and adults. No need to feel guilty with every bite—they’re naturally sweet and nutritious, and I promise your family will love them as much as mine does.
And here’s the fun part: they’re easy to make and even more fun to eat! With a soft, airy texture and that nutty sweetness from peanut butter powder, these cookies will become your new go-to snack. Try something new and enjoy a treat that feels as good as it tastes!
Why These Cookies Are the Perfect Healthy Holiday Treat
Protein-Packed – These cookies are full of protein thanks to ingredients like Greek yogurt and peanut butter powder. Protein is essential for keeping energy levels up and supporting muscle health, so these cookies make for a satisfying snack or breakfast.
Vegetables in Disguise – The pumpkin puree in this recipe not only adds a delicious, subtly sweet flavor but also provides a boost of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It’s a fantastic way to sneak some vegetables into your holiday treats!
Low in Sugar – These cookies use only a small amount of maple syrup or honey, keeping the sweetness natural. There’s no need for loads of refined sugar, so you can indulge in a treat without the sugar crash afterward.
Light and Fluffy Texture – These cookies have a soft, cakey texture that is light and perfect for the season. Unlike heavy, dense cookies, these are a refreshing, airy bite that won't leave you feeling too full.
The Recipe: Healthy Pumpkin Protein Cookies
Ingredients:
1 cup spelt flour
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1/4 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
1/4 cup peanut butter powder
1/4 cup maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional, for a cozy holiday flavor)
1/4 cup chocolate chips or raisins (optional mix-ins)
Macros Per Cookie:
Calories: 85 | Protein: 4g | Carbs: 13g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Fat: 3g
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the spelt flour, peanut butter powder, baking powder, and cinnamon. This will ensure that all the dry ingredients are well combined.
In a separate bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, Greek yogurt, and maple syrup (or honey) until smooth and creamy.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients: Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms. If the dough seems too thick, feel free to add a splash of water or milk to help it come together.
If you’re using mix-ins like chocolate chips or raisins, fold them into the dough.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each cookie slightly using the back of a spoon, as these cookies don’t spread much during baking.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the cookies are set. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
These cookies are the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition. The pumpkin puree adds a moist, soft texture, while Greek yogurt keeps them light and fluffy. Peanut butter powder provides a nutty, protein-packed punch, making each bite satisfying.
You can easily customize these cookies with mix-ins like chocolate chips for indulgence or raisins for natural sweetness. This recipe is versatile, so you can adjust it to fit your taste without compromising on nutrition or flavor!
Tips for Making the Most of Your Cookies
Storage: These cookies will stay fresh for about 3-4 days if stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For a longer shelf life, refrigerate them.
Make Ahead: You can also make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. This makes it super easy to bake a fresh batch whenever you want them.
Feel free to experiment: If you’re not a fan of peanut butter powder, you can substitute it with almond meal or another nut flour for a different flavor. You can also add spices like nutmeg or ginger for a cozy holiday twist.
A New Cookie to Try this Season
As a Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist, I believe life is all about balance, especially during the holidays. That means enjoying the season and all the festive foods it brings—cookies included! If you're looking for a little variety this year, why not try these peanut butter pumpkin protein cookies? They’re light, fluffy, and packed with protein and fiber, offering a different twist on the usual treats.
While these cookies make a great option for anyone looking for a snack with a bit more sustenance, remember, there’s no need to restrict yourself from indulging in your favorite holiday classics! It's all about moderation and enjoying the things you love. After all, the holiday season is about celebrating with family, friends, and, yes, food!
What’s great about these cookies is how customizable they are—you can add chocolate chips, raisins, or any mix-ins you like. That means they’re just as fun and festive as any other cookie on the platter, but with a little extra nutritional punch.
So go ahead, enjoy all the cookies you want this holiday season. These pumpkin protein cookies are just a fun new addition to the mix—an easy and tasty way to balance out all the delicious treats! Happy baking, and don't forget to enjoy the season!
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