5 Tasty Protein Powder Recipes That Aren’t Shakes

Article posted in: Diet & Nutrition

So you’ve got a tub of protein powder, or maybe some Nutrisystem Shake™ packets—and you’re faithfully blending up a frothy shake every day. This is great! We love protein to help build strong muscles and keep us fuller for longer.

But what would you say to a little culinary exploration, featuring your faithful pal: Protein powder? We have some great ideas that are going to amaze you, so let’s jump right in!

1. Protein Pancakes

Let’s start with breakfast, shall we? And what’s better than fluffy pancakes? Fluffy pancakes that count toward your PowerFuel servings on the Nutrisystem plan!

Whisk together one-quarter cup of egg whites, one serving of plain or vanilla protein powder, two tablespoons of unsweetened vanilla almond milk, one teaspoon cinnamon and two teaspoons ground flaxseed. Stir in one-half of a banana, mashed really well. Cook low and slow—over low heat in a nonstick pan with nonfat cooking spray. Flip when bubbles start to form around the edges.

Top with the other half of the banana, sliced, or one-half cup of fresh fruit.

(Makes one serving and counts as one and one-half PowerFuels, one SmartCarb and two Extras on the Nutrisystem plan, plus your toppings of choice.)

2. Breakfast Cookies

Look out! This recipe has quickly become a staple in our kitchen. Super easy to make, these cookies yield a delicious, nutritious snack that can go-go-go right along with you in the morning!

Mash two ripe medium-size bananas really well, then stir in one-half cup plain or vanilla protein powder and a dash of cinnamon. Add a tablespoon or two of unsweetened vanilla almond milk, if needed, to reach a doughy consistency. Mix in one cup of old fashioned oats. Scoop out into eight balls on a parchment paper lined cookie sheet and lightly press to flatten. Bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

(Makes eight cookies. One serving is two cookies and counts as one and one-half SmartCarbs and one PowerFuel on the Nutrisystem plan.)

3. Chocolate Protein Pudding

This delicious recipe makes a light and airy pudding that’s reminiscent of chocolate mousse. Only it’s so clean and healthy that you can enjoy it for breakfast (or morning snack, or post workout, or dessert…you get the idea!)

Whisk together one cup plain Greek yogurt, one serving chocolate protein powder, one tablespoon unsweetened vanilla almond milk and a few drops of vanilla extract. Sweeten with stevia to taste, if desired. Refrigerate for one hour, then dig in!

(Makes one or two servings. One serving gives you two PowerFuels on the Nutrisystem plan; or split it in half if you just need one PowerFuel.)

4. Birthday Cake Bites

Yes, you can have your cake and eat it, too. Break this recipe out any time you want to add a little magic into your day, no birthday required!

Mix one-half cup vanilla protein powder, one-quarter cup coconut flour, two tablespoons almond or cashew butter, one-quarter cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk, a few drops of vanilla extract—and don’t think we forgot the rainbow sprinkles (one-half teaspoon)! Roll into four balls and refrigerate until firm.

(Makes four servings. Each one counts as one and one-half PowerFuel and one Extra on the Nutrisystem plan.)

5. Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Soft Serve

We’ve saved the ultimate for last: a single serving, guilt-free treat you can whip up in a matter of minutes!

Into the food processor throw one frozen, chopped banana, one-half serving of chocolate protein powder, one-half tablespoon of peanut butter and a few drops of vanilla extract. Process on high until it reached the consistency of soft serve: Light and creamy. If you like your ice cream more firm, just pop the mixture in your freezer and let it harden for a half hour to an hour.

(Makes one serving and counts as one SmartCarb and one PowerFuel on the Nutrisystem plan, so it’s a perfect flex snack.)

Gives these treats a try to see just how versatile your protein powder can be!