These No-Bake Protein Brownies are made in the food processor and loaded with superfood ingredients—the perfect energy boost for a busy day!
When I started my first full-time job, I found it difficult to maintain my commitment to healthy snacks. Between meetings, workouts, and trying to keep up with my social life—let’s just say that coffee and granola bars became my new staples. After a few months of subpar snacking, I decided to search for nutritious snacks that I could prep in advance and enjoy throughout the busy workday.
These no-bake protein brownies are one of the best recipes I’ve landed on since. Each brownie tastes like an indulgent treat, but it contains plenty of nutrients to keep me fueled for that next Zoom call. This recipe is loaded with natural ingredients like kale, dates, and slivered almonds. The chocolate protein powder gives you an extra boost without compromising the fudgy, rich flavor of these superfood treats.
These days, I like to prep a batch of these no-bake brownies over the weekend for a filling and energizing weekday or post-workout snack. Try this easy-to-make recipe now and enjoy a nutrient-packed snack that is just sweet enough to feel like a reward.
Are These No-Bake Protein Brownies Healthy?
Unlike standard brownie recipes, these no-bake protein brownies are full of nutritious and plant-based ingredients. Almonds are rich in natural fats and protein, and they contain nutrients like fiber and magnesium. Dates are also a good source of fiber as well as potassium, magnesium, and iron. The kale in this recipe is loaded with vitamins like vitamin K, vitamin A, and vitamin C. Blueberries are a powerful antioxidant and a rich source of fiber. This plant-based recipe is a great choice for vegetarian and gluten-free diets. To make this recipe suitable for vegans, make sure to use vegan dark chocolate and protein powder.
Exploring The Rise Of Superfoods
We’ve probably all heard of superfoods, and we may even have a vague idea of their health benefits. But did you know that the history of superfoods dates back to the early 20th century? That’s right—the term superfood first appeared when the United Fruit company advertised the health benefits of bananas during the 1910s. In the 1990s and early 2000s, the term superfood gained international prominence. Over the past decade, the rise of superfoods has kept pace with an increased focus on preventative health and wellness. Superfoods are generally known to be nutrient-dense and plant-based. These foods are linked to a range of benefits, from immune support to heart health. This no-bake protein brownie recipe contains popular superfoods like kale, blueberries, and dark chocolate. Other well-known superfoods include oats, chia seeds, green tea, and lentils. Incorporating nutritious foods like these into your diet can help boost energy levels and support overall health.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftover brownies, first place your remaining treats in an airtight container. You can refrigerate your no-bake goodies for up to 7 days. If you would like to store them longer, you can also freeze these brownies in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Serving Suggestions
To amplify this superfood snack, why not pair it with a nutrient-rich smoothie? I recommend trying a Kiwi Smoothie, Blueberry-Banana Smoothie, or Blueberry-Spinach Smoothie. For an added energy boost, you could also pair your brownies with this Chai Latte or this Strawberry Matcha Latte. I also enjoy eating these brownies as part of an after-dinner dessert. For an evening treat, enjoy your brownies with this Healthy Ice Cream Recipe or this decadent Chocolate Martini Cocktail.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups slivered almonds
- 3 cups pitted dates roughly chopped
- 3/4 cup whey chocolate protein powder
- 3 ounces dark chocolate roughly chopped
- 3/4 cup kale torn and firmly packed
- 3/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil melted
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, letting the parchment hang over the sides. Sprinkle evenly with about 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder until the parchment is covered. Set aside.
- Place the almonds in a food processor and blend until broken down. Place the dates in the food processor and continue processing until a crumbly mixture forms.
- Add in the protein powder, the rest of the cocoa powder, and dark chocolate. Process until crumbly and broken down.
- Add in the kale and coconut flakes and process until the kale turns into very small pieces.
- Add in the fresh blueberries and process until the mixture darkens and starts clumping together. Finally, drizzle in the coconut oil and process until the dough sticks together.
- Pour the mixture into a bowl and gently stir in the pomegranate seeds. Turn the mixture into the prepared pan and press down with clean hands. (It will be sticky.)
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars. Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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