There are endless ways to use protein powder – it doesn’t always have to be a smoothie or a shake that’s not very filling anyways. From pancakes to donuts to pudding… get a little more creative about how you reach a higher total protein intake with one of these 30+ recipes using protein powder.
Whole foods are always best when trying to consume more protein, however, there is just no denying the convenience of protein powder. Whether you are looking for new and exciting ideas to use your protein powder, you’re tired of smoothie or shakes, or just someone who is trying to consume more protein in general – I got you!
I am not always a fan of protein powder and that gritty taste that sometimes comes with it. However, if you find the right recipe and the right protein powder it can make a huge difference.
Most of these recipes are easy to meal prep and some can even be made in bulk and frozen for grab-and-go snacks or a quick breakfast. Even if you don’t love a lot of these options, it should give you inspiration on how to use up that protein powder sitting on your shelf.
Some Thoughts About Protein Powder
Protein powder isn’t highly regulated and it’s important to select one that has been third-party tested by another organization to confirm the ingredients listed are what is actually in the product. This will also ensure there are not harmful levels of heavy metals. Usually the less ingredients, the better when it comes to protein powders.
Whey protein and its’ benefits have been extensively studied- and there are many reasons it’s considered the “gold standard”. It’s a fast digesting, high quality source of protein with high amounts of all 9 essential amino acids. There’s even whey protein isolate which is a more concentrated form with (typically) a higher amount of protein and less lactose. It may even be suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
Collagen protein is rising in popularity but serves a different purpose than whey, and the amino acid profile is different. It might be beneficial for firmer skin, stronger hair and nails and healthy joints. However, research is limited regarding collagen protein and the potential benefits. Most experts agree that consuming a well-balanced diet can be just as beneficial.
Overall, pick whatever protein powder you like – as all will increase overall protein intake. However, whey protein reigns supreme if your goals are muscle building and recovery.
Tasty Recipes Using Protein Powder
Make sure you like the taste of the protein powder you’re using! Some brands are sweetened with artificial sweeteners and leave a funny aftertaste.
Chocolate Protein Cake (Summer Yule)
This is a delicious, lower sugar chocolate cake with 9 grams of protein per slice. You could even make a protein powder frosting or Greek yogurt frosting to increase the protein content!
Protein Brownie Bites (Haute & Healthy Living)
Just 5 ingredients needed for these healthy brownie bites – naturally sweetened with bananas and 9 grams of protein per bite. An easy snack to store in the freezer when you have a sweet tooth.
Funfetti Doughnuts (Strength and Sunshine)
Homemade, healthier protein donuts? Why not. This recipe is vegan and allergy-free with funfetti flavors.
More protein donut options:
— Clean Eating Protein Donuts (The Clean Eating Couple)
— Keto Peanut Butter Donut Holes (How 2 Do Keto)
— Protein Donuts (The Big Man’s World); 12g protein per donut.
High Protein Baked Oats (PCOS Nutritionist Alyssa)
A nutritious breakfast that tastes more like dessert than it does breakfast! This recipe is created by a dietitian so it’s well-balanced with 42 grams of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. It can be prepared ahead of time and tastes just as good warmed back up!
Peanut Butter Vanilla Protein Truffles (Raia’s Recipes)
Peanut butter truffles with vanilla protein powder make for a delicious high protein snack. They’re gluten-free, dairy-free balls of goodness. Made with just a few simple ingredients and drizzled with a chocolate ganache.
Protein Chocolate Chip Muffins (Health Beet)
Baking with protein powder is a simple way to increase the protein content of so many different recipes, like the cake above and these protein chocolate chip muffins. Each muffin has 7 grams of protein per serving
More baking recipes:
— Peanut Butter Protein Cookies with Chocolate Chips (Well Plated by Erin)
— Protein Banana Bread (Chocolate Covered Katie)
— Blueberry Lemon Protein Scones (Nutritionist Mom)
Oatmeal Protein Balls (Kiran Campbell Nutrition)
Each little oatmeal protein ball has 7-9 grams of protein for a fun portable snack that really packs a nutritional punch! Also try Pumpkin Spice Protein Balls (Craving Something Healthy) for a festive fall treat.
Lemon Berry Protein Popsicles
These refreshing popsicles are made with Greek yogurt for additional protein without adding too much protein powder to take away from the delicious taste. The tangy lemon combined with the sweet mixed berries and creamy Greek yogurt make for the tastiest frozen treat! Each popsicle has 12g of protein.
Overnight Oats with Protein Powder
One of my favorite ways to use protein powder – overnight oats! They’re packed full of nutrients and SO easy to meal prep. The picture above is my Berry Cheesecake Overnight Oats with 37 grams of protein per serving.
This recipe uses Jell-O cheesecake pudding mix so it’s extra thick, creamy and tastes just like cheesecake. If you have a protein powder that tastes really good, overnight oats often taste like dessert for breakfast.
Delicious overnight oats recipes with protein powder:
— Lemon Berry Overnight Oats {with Kefir}
— Banana Cinnamon Overnight Oats
Dark Chocolate Cheesecake Protein Pudding
These are miniature protein pudding cups (can also make one larger 36g protein serving) with Hershey’s special dark cocoa powder for a rich, chocolatey flavor. Top with chocolate chips and bit of cool whip for a delicious and nutritious snack!
Protein “puddings” are my second favorite when it comes to recipes using protein powder. There are so many flavor and topping variations. Plus, they’re really easy to throw together. I like to incorporate Greek yogurt for even more protein – and sometimes decrease the amount of protein powder for better taste. Check out more options below!
Also try:
— Mini Strawberry Cheesecake Cups (15g protein in each little cup)
— Banana Protein Pudding with Chessmen Cookies
Healthy Banana Protein Pancakes (Haute & Healthy Living)
The meal that is the hardest to consume enough protein? Breakfast! Especially when it comes to options like pancakes and waffles. This recipe is packed with fiber and antioxidants, and each pancake is 5 grams of protein. I love to top my pancakes with a combination of Greek yogurt and maple syrup for flavor and additional protein!
Or, try these Easy Protein Waffles (The Protein Chef) and these Ridiculously Easy Protein Pancakes with 22g protein per serving from Clean and Delicious.
Apple Spice Protein Mug Cake (Craving Something Healthy)
Satisfy your cravings with this sweet, comforting and delicious apple spice mug cake with 16 grams of protein per serving! It’s sweetened with monk fruit sweetener and is even high in fiber.
Protein Cheesecake (Joy Filled Eats)
Protein cheesecake is a healthier dessert option with 19 grams of protein per serving! It’s made with a mixture of cottage cheese and cream cheese with protein powder in the crust and in the filling.
Even More Ideas
Get Creative!
I come up with random recipes all the time on how I can use protein powder. It’s like a fun challenge for me to figure out how to make a healthier snack or dessert with the right balance of protein powder but also taste!
Of course, a protein shake or smoothie will always have its’ place. What is your favorite way to use protein powder?