Weight Watchers Friendly Protein Cookies (Low-Point, High-Protein Treat)
If you’re on the Weight Watchers plan and love cookies but don’t want to spend all your daily points on one dessert, these WW-friendly protein cookies will be your new best friend. They are soft, slightly chewy, full of flavor, and loaded with protein—making them the perfect guilt-free snack or dessert. Each cookie is only 2 WW SmartPoints (depending on your plan), and they’re so satisfying that one or two is all you’ll need to crush your sweet cravings.
Ingredients (Makes 12 Cookies)
- 1 cup (90 g) rolled oats, blended into oat flour
- ½ cup (120 g) unsweetened applesauce
- ⅓ cup (80 g) nonfat plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup (40 g) vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- 2 tablespoons (20 g) unsweetened cocoa powder (optional, for chocolate cookies)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons (45 g) zero-calorie sweetener (like Stevia, Monkfruit, or Splenda)
- 1 large egg (or 2 egg whites to save points)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional add-ins:
- 2 tablespoons sugar-free chocolate chips (Lily’s or Lakanto brand – adds ~1 point for the batch)
- 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (adds ~1–2 points per serving, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. - Prepare Oat Flour
Add your rolled oats into a blender or food processor. Blend until a fine flour-like consistency is achieved. This is the base of your cookies and provides a wholesome, fiber-rich alternative to all-purpose flour. - Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the oat flour, protein powder, cocoa powder (if using), baking powder, sweetener, and salt. Stir until all ingredients are evenly combined. - Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the unsweetened applesauce, Greek yogurt, egg (or egg whites), and vanilla extract. This combination will provide moisture and ensure your cookies stay soft and chewy without the need for butter or oil. - Create the Dough
Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently until everything is just combined. The dough should be slightly sticky but firm enough to hold shape. If it feels too dry, add an extra tablespoon of applesauce. - Add Optional Mix-Ins
Fold in sugar-free chocolate chips or nuts if desired. This step is completely optional but adds texture and indulgence. - Shape the Cookies
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each into a ball, then flatten slightly on the prepared baking sheet. - Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as protein-based cookies can dry out quickly if overbaked. - Cool Before Serving
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Nutrition Facts (Per Cookie, without optional add-ins)
- Calories: 68
- Protein: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Fat: 1 g
- Sugar: 1 g
WW SmartPoints (per cookie)
- Green Plan: 2 points
- Blue Plan: 2 points
- Purple Plan: 2 points
(Optional add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts will increase points—usually by 1 extra point per serving.)
Why These Protein Cookies Are Perfect for Weight Watchers
One of the biggest struggles for those on WW is finding snacks and desserts that are low in points yet high in satisfaction. These cookies solve that problem. Thanks to the combination of protein powder, oats, and Greek yogurt, they provide a balanced ratio of protein, fiber, and slow-digesting carbs. This not only helps you stay full longer but also satisfies your sweet tooth without derailing your progress.
The use of applesauce and Greek yogurt eliminates the need for butter, oil, or heavy sugar, cutting down both calories and SmartPoints. They are baked rather than fried, keeping them lighter and healthier, while still providing that “cookie” experience you crave.
Storage Tips
These cookies store beautifully, making them perfect for weekly meal prep. Place cooled cookies in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or microwave for a few seconds.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy one or two cookies as an afternoon snack with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
- Pair them with a small bowl of fresh fruit for a balanced dessert.
- Crumble a cookie over a cup of WW-friendly cottage cheese or Greek yogurt for a high-protein breakfast or snack.
- For an extra treat, sandwich a scoop of 1-point cottage cheese ice cream between two cookies for a low-point homemade ice cream sandwich.
Recipe Variations
- Peanut Butter Protein Cookies – Stir in 2 tablespoons of powdered peanut butter (like PB2) for a nutty twist without adding too many points.
- Cinnamon Raisin Protein Cookies – Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon and a tablespoon of raisins for a nostalgic cookie flavor.
- Mocha Protein Cookies – Add 1 teaspoon instant coffee granules to the batter for a coffee-chocolate vibe.
- Birthday Cake Protein Cookies – Use vanilla protein powder and fold in sugar-free sprinkles for a fun twist.
Expert Tips for Perfect Protein Cookies
- Don’t Overbake: Protein powder can cause cookies to dry out. Remove them from the oven when the edges are firm but the center still looks slightly soft.
- Sweetener Choice Matters: If using a sweeter protein powder, reduce the added sweetener. If your protein powder is unsweetened, you may need an extra tablespoon of sweetener.
- Texture Adjustment: If you prefer softer cookies, use more applesauce or yogurt. For chewier cookies, add more oats.
- Baking Time: Remember, oven times can vary. Always check your cookies around the 9-minute mark.
Why Protein Cookies Belong in Your Meal Plan
Snacking is often where people fall off track with their WW plan. Traditional cookies are loaded with butter, sugar, and refined flour, which can cost you 6–10 SmartPoints per cookie. These protein cookies, however, are a fraction of the points and offer actual nutritional benefits.
With 7 grams of protein per cookie, they support muscle repair, help curb hunger, and make a fantastic post-workout snack. They also offer a good source of fiber from oats, supporting healthy digestion and keeping you fuller longer.
Final Thoughts
These Weight Watchers friendly protein cookies prove that you don’t need to give up dessert while losing weight. With only 2 SmartPoints per cookie, you can indulge daily without guilt. They’re easy to make, require basic ingredients, and can be customized to fit your personal preferences.
If you’ve been searching for a dessert that works with your WW plan instead of against it, these cookies are the perfect addition to your recipe collection.