Name: Delicious Healthy High Protein Cocoa Chickpea Cookies You’ll Love
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 1 can Chickpeas (Rinsed and dried); 2 medium Ripe Banana (Use bananas with deep brown spots); 1/3 cup Cocoa Powder (Dutch-processed or natural); 1 cup Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats (Avoid quick or steel-cut oats); 1/4 cup Nut Butter (Almond or peanut); 1/4 cup Maple Syrup (Add minimally for moisture); 1/2 tsp Baking Soda; 1/4 tsp Salt; 1/2 cup Optional Chocolate Chips (Use sparingly)

In a world where indulgence often comes at the expense of health, I stumbled upon a delightful revelation: Healthy High Protein Cocoa Chickpea Cookies with Banana. Who would have thought chickpeas could transform into a soft, fudgy treat that satisfies both cravings and nutritional needs? These cookies are a wholesome twist on your classic chocolate snack, marrying the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the irresistible taste of cocoa. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a post-workout boost, they’re both easy to whip up and guilt-free. Plus, they’re flourless and eggless, making them a fantastic option for those exploring gluten-free and vegan lifestyles. How about giving them a try and turning your next cookie moment into a wholesome celebration?

Why Are These Cookies So Special?

Healthy, the perfect answer to your cravings without compromising on nutrition! These Healthy High Protein Cocoa Chickpea Cookies are flourless and eggless, making them ideal for gluten-free and vegan diets. Fudgy texture mimics traditional cookies, offering the satisfaction of dessert with a nutritious twist. Plus, they’re made with pantry staples, ensuring you can whip them up anytime. Try serving them alongside Gooey Butter Cookies for a delightful dessert spread that caters to everyone!

Healthy High Protein Cocoa Chickpea Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to make these fluffy, nutritious cookies with this ingredient list!

For the Cookie Base

Chickpeas – They provide structure and plant-based protein; always rinse and pat dry to avoid excess moisture.
Ripe Banana – Adds natural sweetness and moisture; use bananas with deep brown spots for best results.
Cocoa Powder – Delivers a deep chocolate flavor to disguise the chickpeas; both Dutch-processed and natural cocoa work wonderfully here.
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats – Offer structure and chewiness; opt for rolled oats instead of quick oats or steel-cut oats for an optimal texture.
Nut Butter (Almond or Peanut) – Binds ingredients together; almond butter offers a milder taste, while peanut butter packs a punch.
Maple Syrup – Provides sweetness without overpowering the flavors; keep it minimal to ensure the cookies maintain a moist texture.
Baking Soda and Salt – Essential for leavening and balancing flavors.

For the Optional Indulgence

Optional Chocolate Chips – Create pockets of melted chocolate for a little extra sweetness; just be careful not to overdo it to keep these Healthy High Protein Cocoa Chickpea Cookies balanced.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Healthy High Protein Cocoa Chickpea Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures that your Healthy High Protein Cocoa Chickpea Cookies won’t stick and bakes evenly. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients to set up a smooth workflow.

Step 2: Blend the Base
In a food processor, add the rinsed and dried chickpeas, cocoa powder, nut butter, maple syrup, baking soda, and salt. Blend on high speed until the mixture is mostly smooth, with a few small chickpea bits for texture. This process takes about 1-2 minutes. The mixture should appear creamy and chocolatey, resembling a thick batter.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Transfer the blended chickpea mixture into a mixing bowl and fold in the rolled oats and ripe banana chunks. Use a spatula to combine everything until fully incorporated. The dough should be thick but not overly dry; if it seems crumbly, you can add a little plant milk, one tablespoon at a time, to achieve the right consistency.

Step 4: Scoop and Shape
Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart. Flatten each scoop slightly with the back of a spoon, as these Healthy High Protein Cocoa Chickpea Cookies won’t spread much during baking. Aim for evenly sized cookies to ensure consistent baking.

Step 5: Bake Until Set
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Look for the cookie tops to appear matte and soft to the touch. Keep an eye on them; they should retain a slightly gooey texture but not be sticky. Overbaking can dry them out, so set a timer and check around the 10-minute mark.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows them to firm up before transferring to a wire rack. After they’ve cooled completely, these Healthy High Protein Cocoa Chickpea Cookies are ready to enjoy as a wholesome snack or post-workout treat.

How to Store and Freeze Healthy High Protein Cocoa Chickpea Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their moisture and fudginess.

Fridge: For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to 1 week. Note that the texture may change slightly; just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up!

Freezer: Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 3 months; simply thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating: When reheating, microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back the soft, melty goodness of these Healthy High Protein Cocoa Chickpea Cookies.

What to Serve with Healthy High Protein Cocoa Chickpea Cookies

Indulge your taste buds and create a complete experience with these delightful cookies and their perfect pairings.

Creamy Cashew Yogurt: This velvety addition balances the chocolate decadence, making for a satisfying snack or dessert option.
Fresh Berries Medley: A burst of juicy sweetness adds a refreshing contrast to the rich cookies, enhancing each bite with vibrant flavors.
Nutty Granola Bar: For a crunchy texture, pair with a homemade granola bar. The different textures will elevate your snacking experience.
Warm Almond Milk: This cozy beverage complements the fudginess of the cookies and makes for a comforting, plant-based treat.
Dark Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle elevates the chocolate flavor, creating an indulgent way to relish the already decadent cookies.
Coconut Whipped Cream: This fluffy topping offers a tropical twist, lightening the rich chocolaty treats while adding an extra layer of dessert-like goodness.
Chia Seed Pudding: A nutrient-packed side that brings a creamy texture and a delightful contrast to the chewy cookies.
Mint Tea: A soothing drink that refreshes your palate, making it a perfect companion for enjoying with a couple of cookies.
Frozen Banana Bites: These chill treats add a fruity element, balancing the richness of the Healthy High Protein Cocoa Chickpea Cookies beautifully.
Fruit-Sweetened Energy Balls: Another healthy snack option that provides a boost of energy and protein, perfectly complementing these satisfying cookies.

Healthy High Protein Cocoa Chickpea Cookies Variations

Customize your cookies to suit your taste and dietary needs with these delightful twists!

Peanut Butter: Swap almond butter for peanut butter for a nutty kick that enhances chocolate flavor. The richness will take your cookies to the next level.
Agave Nectar: Replace maple syrup with agave nectar for a unique sweetness. This change provides a different flavor profile, perfect for those seeking low-glycemic options.
Oat-Free: Opt for ground almonds instead of oats for a nutty, flourless version that’s still chewy. The result is a decadent treat that’s just as satisfying!
Spicy Chocolate: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a warm kick. The heat beautifully contrasts the sweet cocoa, making every bite interesting.
Coconut Flakes: Incorporate unsweetened shredded coconut into the dough for added texture and a tropical twist. It introduces a light, chewy element that harmonizes with the chocolate.
Dried Fruits: Mix in small pieces of dried fruits like cranberries or apricots to add a burst of flavor. They not only provide sweetness but also a touch of chew that brightens each bite.
Protein Boost: Consider adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder for an extra nutritional punch. This is especially great for post-workout fueling, making these cookies an ideal snack.
Chocolate Chips: For even more chocolatey goodness, fold in some dark or dairy-free chocolate chips. They melt perfectly, creating deliciously gooey pockets throughout your cookies.

Don’t forget, if you’re in the mood for more sweet treats, check out my Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies or try your hand at Chocolate Chip Cookies for variety!

Expert Tips for Healthy High Protein Cocoa Chickpea Cookies

Rinse Chickpeas Well: Always rinse and pat dry your chickpeas thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which can lead to a gummy cookie texture.
Check Banana Ripeness: Use bananas with deep brown spots for the best natural sweetness and moisture; under-ripe bananas won’t provide the same flavor.
Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking; they should feel soft but not sticky. Overbaking can dry them out, so trust your instincts!
Choose the Right Oats: Stick to old-fashioned rolled oats for the best structure. Quick oats may lead to a mushy texture.
Adjust for Dietary Needs: If you’re preparing these Healthy High Protein Cocoa Chickpea Cookies for someone with gluten intolerance, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats!
Add a Twist: Don’t hesitate to mix in different nut butters or use agave nectar instead of maple syrup for a variation that suits your taste!

Make Ahead Options

These Healthy High Protein Cocoa Chickpea Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a nutritious snack without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance—just mix all ingredients and store the bowl covered in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. When ready to bake, simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and follow the original baking instructions. For even more convenience, you can scoop the cookie dough onto parchment paper, freeze the scoops, and then transfer them to a freezer bag; they can be baked directly from the freezer for up to 3 days! Just add an extra couple of minutes to the baking time for cookies that are just as delicious as when they’re freshly made.

Healthy High Protein Cocoa Chickpea Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of chickpeas should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results in your Healthy High Protein Cocoa Chickpea Cookies, use canned chickpeas. Just make sure to rinse and pat them dry thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which can lead to a gummy texture in your cookies. If using dried chickpeas, cook and thoroughly cool them before blending.

How should I store these cookies?
I recommend storing your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer a longer shelf life, they can be refrigerated for up to 1 week. Just keep in mind that the texture might change slightly, but you can warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore some of their original softness.

Can I freeze the cookies?
Of course! To freeze your Healthy High Protein Cocoa Chickpea Cookies, first lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for 1-2 hours. Once they are solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up.

What if my cookie dough is too dry?
No worries! If you find your dough is too thick or crumbly, just add a tablespoon of plant milk at a time until you reach the desired consistency. The dough should be thick but still manageable. Remember, these Healthy High Protein Cocoa Chickpea Cookies should maintain a fudgy texture, so go easy on the milk!

Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Very! This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you ensure to use certified gluten-free oats. Additionally, if you have nut allergies, you can substitute the nut butter with sunflower seed butter or a similar alternative. Always double-check your specific ingredient brands, especially if cooking for those with severe allergies.