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Protein Brownie Bites: Try These Tasty Treats Next Time You’re Feeling Low | Mental Health Recipes

By Krista

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Last Updated: April 23, 2024

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Are you craving something sweet but don't want to derail your wellness goals?

Well, these fudgy protein brownies fit the bill, satisfying those cravings and lifting your mood. This chocolate and protein blend has so much to offer — and no, you don’t have to be a gym-goer to get the most out of this snack.

Perfect for a post-workout bite, a midday mood lifter, or a guilt-free dessert, these gooey, chocolatey squares are designed to make you feel good from the inside out. So grab your mixing bowl and get ready to bake your way to happiness!

 

The Yummiest Protein Brownies

My go-to dessert is always a brownie.

It’s not only a safe bet (I mean, it’s hard to mess up, right?), but it also always satisfies my sweet tooth. Plus, they are usually pretty simple and easy to make. And this recipe is no exception. With 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll be biting into these chocolatey treats in no time.

 

How This Fudgy Brownie Improves Your Mental Health

While these brownies shouldn’t replace a balanced diet, they can be part of one!

And these are definitely a step above regular brownies. With a bit of protein and an ingredient list selected with the health-conscious individual in mind, you can’t go wrong with this snack. 

  • So, what makes these brownies different from others?
  • How can this ingredient list elevate your mental well-being?

 

A Chocolate Indulgence Isn’t a Bad Thing…

Chocolate is well-known for boosting serotonin, the feel-good neurotransmitter in the brain. The cocoa in semi-sweet chocolate chips contains flavonoids, which have been shown to improve mood and cognitive function by increasing blood flow to the brain.

Plus, chocolate tastes great. Life is meant to be enjoyed. As part of a balanced diet, chocolate is a-okay! In this way, it can further increase dopamine as sweet treats can ignite the reward center of the brain.

 

Coconut Oil Contains Healthy Fats

Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are metabolized differently than other fats. MCTs provide a quick source of energy and may help produce brain-healthy ketones, offering potential mood-stabilizing benefits.

Research even shows how MCTs may possibly enhance brain energy in those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. Other studies demonstrate how MCTs may help improve memory in older adults without dementia or neurodegeneration.

In other words, MCTs have a beneficial impact on brain health, which can spill over into better mental health, too!

On top of coconut oil, these brownies also contain coconut sugar. Although it’s still a sugar, coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index than regular sugar. This means it causes a slower rise in blood sugar, which can help maintain stable energy levels and mood.

 

Chocolate Protein Powder Adds More Than Your Regular Brownie Recipe

Protein is essential for neurotransmitter function, overall brain health, and mental wellness. Incorporating protein powder not only helps in muscle repair and recovery but also aids in neurotransmitter synthesis, which can improve mood and cognitive functions.

And this adds a little bit more than your regular ol’ brownie recipe. You get a touch more nutrition, which is great for a sweet treat.

Related Article: Try This Chocolate Flaxseed Granola for a Happier, Healthier You | Mental Health Recipes

 

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Protein Brownie Bites

Prep time:
15 minutes
Cook time:
25 minutes
Total time:
40 minutes
Recipe Category:
chocolate chips
Ingredients:
  • 1 ½ cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • ½ cup of coconut oil
  • 3 eggs
  • ¾ cup of coconut sugar
  • 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
  • ½ cup of chocolate protein powder
  • ⅓ cup of blanched almond flour
  • 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
  • ¼ teaspoon of salt
Instructions:
  1. Preheat your oven to 350℉. Grab an 8X8 pan and line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a microwave-safe bowl, mix together 1 cup of chocolate chips and coconut oil. 
  3. Melt this combo in the microwave at 30-second intervals. Make sure to stir between each one!
  4. In another bowl, mix the eggs and coconut sugar. Beat with a mixer for about one minute.
  5. Add the vanilla and melted chocolate while the mixture is still beating.
  6. Add the rest of the dry ingredients and continue beating.
  7. Using a spoon, mix in the remaining (½ cup) of chocolate chips.
  8. Spread the batter across the pan and bake for 22-28 minutes.
  9. Remove from the oven, and let cool for about 10 minutes.
  10. Slice it up and enjoy! (It’s even better served warm with a bit of vanilla ice cream.)

Related Article: Homemade Hot Cocoa: Can You Sip Your Way Toward a Happier & More Peaceful Mind? | Mental Health Recipes

Yield (servings):
16 servings

Got a Sweet Craving? These Brownies Will Quench It!

Packed with ingredients that support your mood and cognitive function, these brownies are a guilt-free indulgence that can benefit your mind and body.

Bake a batch today and enjoy the rich, chocolatey goodness, knowing you’re doing something great for your mental health. Here's to delicious bites that bring genuine smiles — happy baking!

Read Next: 5 Annoying & Frequent Food Cravings: What is Your Body Trying to Tell You?

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