Desserts aren’t usually known for their nutritional value, but what if your sweet tooth could help you hit your protein goals? It turns out there are plenty of treats that satisfy cravings and sneak in some extra fuel.
Whether you’re looking to level up your post-workout snack or just want dessert to do a little more for you, these protein-packed picks get the job done. Here are 15 surprising desserts that are way more than just sugar and sprinkles.
15. Protein Ice Cream
It tastes like regular ice cream but packs a serious protein punch. You can find store-bought versions or make your own with protein powder and frozen bananas.
14. Greek Yogurt Bark
This frozen treat looks fancy but is super simple. Just spread Greek yogurt, top with fruit and nuts, and freeze—it’s basically protein dessert pizza.
13. Protein Mug Cake
All you need is a mug, a few ingredients, and a microwave. It’s warm, fluffy, and way more satisfying than your average scoop of protein powder.
12. Chocolate Chickpea Brownies
Yes, chickpeas in brownies sound weird—but they work. They add moisture, fiber, and surprisingly, protein without any bean flavor.
11. Cottage Cheese Cheesecake
This one’s for the true high-protein dessert fans. Cottage cheese makes the base creamy and rich, with an extra dose of protein in every bite.
10. Almond Butter Cookies
Swap out peanut butter for almond butter and you’ve got a nutty, protein-rich cookie that still feels indulgent. Bonus points if you add a scoop of protein powder to the dough.
9. Protein Donuts
They look like regular donuts but they’re often baked and packed with extra protein. Think of it as a dessert with a little gym-rat energy.
8. Chocolate Avocado Mousse
Avocado makes it creamy, cocoa makes it chocolatey, and a scoop of protein powder takes it to the next level. It’s rich, dreamy, and sneakily nutritious.
7. Protein Popsicles
Blend your favorite protein shake with fruit or nut butter, pour into molds, and freeze. Suddenly your summer treat just became a protein snack.
6. Chia Pudding
It’s creamy, customizable, and surprisingly filling thanks to the combo of protein and fiber. Add cocoa, fruit, or even a scoop of protein powder for extra oomph.
5. Baked Oatmeal Cups
These feel like a dessert but are healthy enough for breakfast. They’re often loaded with oats, nut butter, and sometimes a sneaky scoop of protein.
4. Protein Rice Krispie Treats
A grown-up twist on the classic childhood snack. Mix in protein powder and maybe a little nut butter for added substance.
3. No-Bake Protein Balls
These little bites are like cookie dough with a healthy glow-up. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and packed with protein.
Read More: These 15 Fast-Food Orders Are Surprisingly High in Protein
2. Protein Banana Bread
It’s cozy, sweet, and way more satisfying with a scoop of protein in the mix. Add chocolate chips, walnuts, or whatever else your sweet tooth craves.
Read More: These 30 Foods Pack More Protein Than an Egg!
1. Protein Pudding
Creamy, dreamy, and ridiculously easy to make. Just blend protein powder with milk or Greek yogurt, chill, and dig in—it’s a dessert with benefits.
Read More: 30 Ways to Get More Protein in Your Diet
