With festivities around the corner, desserts are something that we cannot look over. But all those extra calories, fat, and sugar in those rich desserts is a big no-no for your diet and fitness. How about we replace the unwanted ingredients with protein powder to make it healthy and guilt-free for you?
Whey protein is one of the most popular supplements in the fitness world right now. It has so many benefits for the body – helps in weight loss, supports cardiovascular health, reduces blood pressure and cholesterol etc. There are various ways in which you can incorporate whey protein in your diet –
- Whey protein shakes
- Whey protein bars
- Whey protein snacks
Here are some dessert recipes that you can easily make with whey protein powders and give them a healthy twist.
Protein Besan Laddoo
Besan laddoo is one of the most loved Indian sweets and is an indispensable part of all our celebrations. Replacing the sugar with protein powder is a great way to make this indulgent dessert healthy.
Ingredients
- 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
- ¼ cup vanilla whey protein powder
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (or sugar-free/ stevia)
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp ghee
- 1tsp cardamom powder
- Almonds for garnishing
Method
Heat ghee in a pan. Add besan and roast it on low flame till the color changes to light brown. Keep stirring and add sugar. Pour in water and mix well until you get a smooth consistency. Once all the water is absorbed and the mixture is soft and fluffy, remove the pan from heat. Add cardamom powder and whey protein powder and mix well. Allow the mixture to cool and make small laddoos. Garnish with cut almonds and your delicious and healthy protein besan laddoos are ready!
Mocha Chocolate Protein Bars
A healthy alternative for chocolate bars is protein bars. The ones you get in stores are expensive, but you can easily make protein bars at home and relish them as desserts without any guilt. With clean healthy ingredients you can be assured that these protein bars will be the perfect addition to your fitness routine.
Ingredients
- 125 grams chocolate whey protein powder
- 175 grams rolled oats
- 225 grams almonds
- 25 grams brown sugar (soft)
- 25 grams walnuts
- 25 grams pumpkin seeds
- Pinch of salt
- 40 ml virgin coconut oil
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 200 ml whole milk
- Few drops vanilla extract
- 75 grams peanut butter
- 200 grams dark chocolate
Method
Add protein powder, rolled oats, brown sugar, salt, and chopped almonds in a large bowl. Add sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, and chopped walnuts to the bowl and mix well. Mix coconut oil, vanilla extract, and peanut butter until smooth. Add the wet ingredients into the dry ones and mix well. Put this dough in a silicone mould to set. Alternatively you could make small balls and make protein balls as well.
Heat the dark chocolate in the microwave until it melts. Drizzle the chocolate over the chocolate protein bar and let it set in the fridge. Cut into bite sized pieces and enjoy!
Banana Protein Pancakes
Pancakes are such a fuss free breakfast option. They are healthy, filling, and delectable all at the same time. Protein pancakes are a great way to make them with whey protein powder and give them a healthy touch. You can have these with dark chocolate sauce, maple syrup, coffee syrup, and fruits for a generous meal.
Ingredients
- 1 large ripe banana
- 35 grams rolled oats
- 35 grams vanilla whey protein powder
- 2 eggs
Method
Put a non-stick pan on low flame for it to heat. Add banana and eggs to a bowl and mix well with a blender until smooth. Add protein powder and rolled oats and mix well until you get a smooth consistency. Pour the batter onto the preheated pan and let it cook. When you see small bubbles appear add a few drops of oil and flip the pancake. Cook from both sides till golden brown. Add your favorite toppings – strawberries, blueberries, or maple syrup.
What you eat reflects on your skin and health and that’s why we say health and fitness is a lifestyle choice you make. Making desserts with protein powders is easy and convenient. You can enjoy the goodness of sweets without extra sugar or calories.