Introduction

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying snack that is both protein-packed and low in SmartPoints, look no further than WW No-Bake Cottage Cheese Brownie Batter Protein Bites. These protein-packed bites combine the rich and indulgent flavor of brownie batter with the creamy, protein-rich goodness of cottage cheese. Not only are they perfect for anyone on a weight loss or health journey, but they’re also incredibly easy to make and require no baking.

This recipe is a perfect snack for those who crave something sweet but still want to stay on track with their wellness goals. These protein bites are packed with nutrients that will help keep you full, energized, and satisfied. By combining cottage cheese with cocoa powder, protein powder, and a few other wholesome ingredients, you create a delightful treat that’s nutritious and delicious. Best of all, these protein bites are a fantastic way to curb your sweet cravings without blowing your daily SmartPoints budget.

This guide will provide detailed instructions, all the necessary measurements, nutritional facts, and SmartPoint information for these protein bites, helping you create a healthy snack that can be enjoyed any time of the day.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these protein bites:

  1. 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese (about 240g)
  2. 1/2 cup rolled oats (about 45g) – gluten-free oats can be used for a gluten-free version
  3. 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (about 25g)
  4. 2 tablespoons chocolate or vanilla protein powder (about 20g)
  5. 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (about 40g) – or your preferred sweetener
  6. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  7. 1/4 teaspoon salt
  8. 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional, about 40g)
  9. 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for added flavor)
  10. 1/4 cup water or unsweetened almond milk (about 60ml)
  11. 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed (about 7g) – optional but adds a boost of fiber and omega-3s
  12. 1/2 tablespoon chia seeds (about 5g) – optional for added texture and nutrition

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cottage Cheese

Start by draining any excess liquid from the cottage cheese if needed. Place the cottage cheese in a large mixing bowl. Cottage cheese is the star of this recipe, providing a creamy texture while also offering a good dose of protein. It also helps bind the protein bites together and adds a subtle tang that complements the chocolatey flavors.

Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients

In the same mixing bowl with cottage cheese, add the rolled oats, cocoa powder, protein powder, ground flaxseed, cinnamon, and salt. The cocoa powder is what gives these protein bites their rich, chocolatey brownie batter flavor, while the protein powder boosts the nutritional profile of each bite. The oats provide fiber and texture, making the bites more filling. Ground flaxseed and chia seeds are optional but add fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and extra nutrients to make your snack even more beneficial.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

To the dry ingredients, add the honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and water or almond milk. The honey or maple syrup will bring sweetness to balance the cocoa powder’s bitterness, while the vanilla extract adds depth of flavor. The water or almond milk will help bring the mixture together and give it the right consistency, making it easier to mix.

Stir the mixture well until all the ingredients are fully combined. At this stage, you should have a thick dough-like consistency. If the mixture feels too dry or crumbly, add a little more water or almond milk, one teaspoon at a time, until the texture is cohesive and easy to work with.

Step 4: Mix in Chocolate Chips and Optional Add-ins

Once the dough is formed, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips if you’re using them. The chocolate chips will give the bites an extra indulgent, brownie-like texture. You can also add any other optional ingredients such as chopped nuts, dried fruit, or a sprinkle of sea salt to make the bites more customized to your taste.

Step 5: Roll the Protein Bites

Once everything is well-mixed, it’s time to form the protein bites. Take small portions of the mixture and roll them between your palms into bite-sized balls. The size is entirely up to you, but we recommend making them about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter for a perfect snack portion. This recipe should make about 12-16 protein bites depending on the size you prefer.

Step 6: Chill the Protein Bites

Place the rolled protein bites onto a plate or tray lined with parchment paper. Once all the bites are rolled, place the tray in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to an hour to allow the bites to firm up and set. Chilling them helps them maintain their shape and improves the texture.

If you’re in a rush, you can place them in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes. However, longer chilling time will result in a firmer bite, which is typically preferred.

Step 7: Enjoy and Store

Once chilled and set, your WW No-Bake Cottage Cheese Brownie Batter Protein Bites are ready to enjoy! They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5-7 days. If you prefer to keep them for a longer period, you can freeze them for up to 3 months, making these protein bites a great make-ahead snack.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Each WW No-Bake Cottage Cheese Brownie Batter Protein Bite provides approximately:

  • Calories: 95
  • Protein: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Fat: 4g
  • Sugar: 5g (from honey/maple syrup and cottage cheese)
  • Sodium: 85mg

WW SmartPoints

Each serving of these protein bites (1 bite) is calculated at 2 SmartPoints on the Blue, Purple, and Green WW plans. These points may vary slightly depending on the specific brands of ingredients used, so it’s always good to check the WW app or website for the most accurate SmartPoints based on your exact ingredients.

Health Benefits of WW No-Bake Cottage Cheese Brownie Batter Protein Bites

  1. High in Protein: These protein bites are an excellent source of protein from cottage cheese and protein powder, making them ideal for muscle recovery, managing hunger, and promoting satiety.
  2. Low in Sugar: These protein bites are sweetened with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, keeping the sugar content in check. The sweetness is perfectly balanced with the rich cocoa flavor.
  3. Rich in Fiber: The oats, flaxseed, and chia seeds provide a good dose of fiber, helping with digestion, promoting fullness, and regulating blood sugar.
  4. Healthy Fats: The addition of flaxseed and chia seeds provides heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, promoting cardiovascular health.
  5. No-Bake Convenience: These protein bites require no baking, making them an easy and quick snack option for anyone short on time.
  6. Customizable: You can easily modify the recipe to fit your dietary preferences by switching sweeteners, adding nuts, or even making the bites vegan by using plant-based protein powder and maple syrup instead of honey.

Additional Tips

  • Customize Your Protein Bites: Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins. Adding a handful of chopped almonds, walnuts, or cashews can boost the texture and nutritional value. You could also add a pinch of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor.
  • Make Them Vegan: To make the bites vegan, use a plant-based protein powder and substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
  • Sweetener Substitutes: If you’re aiming to reduce calories or sugar intake, consider using a calorie-free sweetener like Stevia or Monk Fruit instead of honey or maple syrup.
  • Chilling Time: For the best results, let these protein bites chill for at least an hour before eating. This helps the flavors to develop, and the bites will firm up and become easier to handle.

Conclusion

WW No-Bake Cottage Cheese Brownie Batter Protein Bites are an incredibly delicious, protein-packed snack that’s low in SmartPoints and easy to make. Whether you’re looking to refuel after a workout or simply need a healthier snack option to curb your cravings, these protein bites are a perfect solution. With a balance of healthy fats, fiber, and protein, they’re not only tasty but also nourishing and filling.

With simple ingredients like cottage cheese, oats, cocoa powder, and protein powder, you can create a wholesome and satisfying treat that will help you stay on track with your health goals. Enjoy these bites as a sweet snack any time of the day, knowing they’re good for both your taste buds and your body.