Cosmic Brownie Protein Bars Recipe
If you’re a fan of nostalgic desserts but also want a boost of protein, these Cosmic Brownie Protein Bars are about to become your new obsession. Imagine all the fudgy, chocolatey goodness of classic cosmic brownies, now boosted with a healthy dose of protein and minus the mystery ingredients. They’re wonderfully easy to make, requiring only a handful of staple ingredients, and come together in no time. Plus, that glossy chocolate topping and colorful sprinkles make every bite a little celebration. Whether for a post-workout snack, a lunchbox treat, or an anytime chocolate fix, these bars are both playful and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts about making Cosmic Brownie Protein Bars is how simple the ingredient list is—each item truly matters for achieving that signature rich chocolate flavor, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and irresistibly pretty finish. Here’s what you need and why you need it:
- Nut or seed butter: Provides a creamy, fudgy base and healthy fats. Almond, peanut, or sunflower seed butter work beautifully.
- Chocolate protein powder: Amps up the chocolate flavor while sneaking in a satisfying protein boost.
- Cocoa powder: Adds deep, intense chocolate richness; go for unsweetened for best results.
- Maple syrup: Naturally sweetens the bars while helping everything stick together.
- Sea salt: A pinch balances and enhances all the chocolatey notes.
- Chocolate chips (for topping): Melted over the bars for that iconic glossy layer.
- Coconut oil: Makes the chocolate topping ultra smooth and easy to slice.
- Sprinkles: For cheerful color and that classic cosmic brownie look—choose your favorites!
How to Make Cosmic Brownie Protein Bars
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Start by lining a loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving a little extra hanging over the edges. This will make it super easy to lift your Cosmic Brownie Protein Bars out of the pan later. Set the pan aside, and get ready for some chocolate magic.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine your nut or seed butter, chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir everything together well until a thick, fudgy dough forms—don’t be afraid to get in there with a sturdy spatula or even your hands if needed! The dough should be firm but pliable and evenly chocolatey throughout.
Step 3: Press Into the Pan
Scoop the dough into your prepared loaf pan. Using clean hands or the back of a spatula, press it firmly into an even layer, making sure to get into all the corners. The more compacted the bars, the smoother they’ll look and slice.
Step 4: Make the Chocolate Topping
In a microwave-safe bowl, add the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring well after each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and glossy. This silky topping is what gives your Cosmic Brownie Protein Bars their signature finish.
Step 5: Pour, Decorate, and Freeze
Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed bar base, using a spatula to spread it evenly to the edges. Sprinkle generously with your favorite sprinkles—think classic rainbow for that true cosmic touch. Pop the pan into your freezer for 1 to 2 hours, or until the topping is firm and everything is set.
Step 6: Slice and Enjoy!
When you’re ready, lift the set bars out using the parchment paper. Slice into squares or bars and get ready for the most delightful, protein-packed treat! Honestly, I love these straight from the freezer—they’re fudgy, cold, and totally crave-worthy.
How to Serve Cosmic Brownie Protein Bars
Garnishes
The classic sprinkle topping is iconic for Cosmic Brownie Protein Bars, but you can also get creative—try a pinch of flaky sea salt, a drizzle of extra nut butter, or even a dusting of edible glitter for special occasions. Every garnish adds personality and flair, making your bars even more inviting.
Side Dishes
Pair your Cosmic Brownie Protein Bars with a cold glass of almond milk, a frothy latte, or even some fresh berries on the side. If you’re serving them for a party spread, try adding in a bowl of mixed nuts or a fruit platter to balance the chocolatey richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra-fun touch, cut your bars into bite-size squares and arrange them on a colorful plate or tiered dessert stand. Pack them individually in parchment for a grab-and-go protein snack, or wrap them up in a box with ribbon as a charming, homemade edible gift. The cosmic sprinkle topping truly makes these bars the star of any snack table!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Cosmic Brownie Protein Bars stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and fudgy for about a week—perfect for sneaking one whenever a chocolate craving strikes!
Freezing
These bars freeze brilliantly. Once sliced, lay them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll last for up to three months, and you can enjoy them straight from the freezer for an extra-firm, chilled treat.
Reheating
If you prefer a softer, gooier texture, let a frozen or refrigerated bar sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before enjoying. There’s no need to actually heat them, but you can pop one in the microwave for 5 seconds if you love a barely-melted chocolate topping.
FAQs
Can I use a different protein powder for Cosmic Brownie Protein Bars?
Absolutely! While chocolate protein powder makes the bars extra rich, you can use vanilla or even plain protein powder if that’s what you have. Just keep in mind it may affect the final flavor slightly—add a bit more cocoa powder if you want them extra chocolatey.
Do I have to use nut butter, or can I go nut-free?
You can easily use sunflower seed butter or tahini if you’re allergic to nuts or want a nut-free option. Both will work for binding and fudginess, though the flavor profile may shift a touch.
How do I keep the chocolate topping from cracking when slicing?
Let the bars sit out of the freezer for 5 to 10 minutes so the chocolate topping can soften just a bit. Use a sharp knife, warmed under hot water, to get clean slices with minimal cracking.
Can I make these bars vegan and gluten-free?
Yes, these Cosmic Brownie Protein Bars are naturally gluten-free as written, and you can ensure they’re fully vegan by using a plant-based protein powder, dairy-free chocolate chips, and your favorite vegan-friendly sprinkles.
What’s the best way to pack them for lunchboxes or on-the-go snacks?
Wrap individual bars in parchment paper or pop them into small reusable snack bags. They travel well, just be aware that the chocolate topping can get a little melty if left in warm environments, so pack them with an ice pack if needed.
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to choose between nostalgia and nutrition with these Cosmic Brownie Protein Bars—now you can indulge in both! They come together with simple ingredients and radiate chocolatey happiness with every bite. Whether you’re sharing these with friends or keeping them as your own secret stash, I promise you’ll love whipping these up again and again.
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Cosmic Brownie Protein Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cosmic Brownie Protein Bars are a delicious and nutritious treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth while providing a protein boost. Made with wholesome ingredients, these bars are easy to make and perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients
For the bars
- 3/4 cup nut or seed butter
- 1/2 cup chocolate protein powder
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder (or cacao powder, unsweetened)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- pinch sea salt
For the topping
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1 tsp coconut oil
- sprinkles (for topping)
Instructions
- Line a loaf pan with parchment paper and set aside. Add all ingredients to a large bowl and mix well until a dough forms.
- Press dough into loaf pan.
- In a small bowl, add chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted. Pour and spread melted chocolate over bars.
- Top with sprinkles and set in the freezer for 1-2 hours to set. Slice and enjoy— I love eating them straight from the freezer!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Cosmic Brownie Protein Bars, Protein Bars Recipe, Healthy Snack, Protein-Packed Dessert
