3-Ingredient Chocolate No-Bake Protein Cookies
Learn how to make 3-ingredient chocolate no-bake protein cookies that are made with dark chocolate, peanut butter, and TVP for a rich, high-protein snack—no protein powder required! Vegan, grain-free, and easy to make, they have a firm, crisp-chewy texture and a balanced chocolate flavor.
Servings: 8 servings (2 cookies per serving)
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup dark chocolate chips (certified vegan and/or gluten-free, as needed)
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth) (see notes for alternatives)
- 1 3/4 cups TVP (see tips for buying TVP, below)
- Optional: pinch of salt (if the peanut butter is unsalted)
Instructions
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper (for easy cleanup)
- Place the chocolate chips and peanut butter in a small saucepan (or medium saucepan). Heat, over low heat, for 2 to 3 minutes until melted, stirring until completely smooth.
- Add the dry TVP and optional salt to the saucepan. Stir until completely combined.
- Using a #40 cookie scoop (small to medium-small), or a heaping tablespoon, portion 16 equal scoops of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Using damp finger, a palm, or the bottom of a flat cup, press the cookies into rounded cookie shapes (I confess, I rounded the sides, too, for a neater look. It is optional).
- Chill the cookies in the refrigerator (at least 60 minutes) or freezer (at least 20 minutes) until firm.
Notes
Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for one week, or the freezer for up to six months. The cookies are perfect straight from the freezer (they do not become too hard when frozen)
Microwave Instructions
- Melt the wet ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, place the chocolate chips and peanut butter. Microwave, in 15 to 20 second intervals, until the chocolate chips begin to melt. Stir until smooth, microwaving for additional intervals until completely smooth.
- Add the TVP: Add the dry TVP and optional salt to the bowl. Stir until completely combined. (Proceed with the same remaining steps).
- Peanut butter alternatives: Use an equal amount of any smooth nut butter or seed butter you prefer. For example, almond butter, cashew butter, sunflower seed butter, pumpkin seed butter, or tahini.
- Dark chocolate chip alternatives: Use an equal amount of chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chunks.
- TVP alternatives: Use an equal volume (1 1/2 cups) of rolled oats, roughly chopped, or about 1 cup finely chopped nuts, to replace the TVP. This will change the texture and nutritional profile of the cookies.
TVP Shopping Checklist ✅
- Ingredients: Only defatted soy flour Labeled Non-GMO (and organic, if possible)
- No flavorings, colorings, preservatives, or oils
- Sealed, airtight packaging (no rips or leaks)
- Light beige color, uniform texture
- No smell when package is opened
- Buy from a trusted brand/source
- Purchase in small quantities for freshness
- Store airtight in a cool, dark place (or freezer)
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving (2 cookies) | Calories: 233kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 0.1mg | Sodium: 87mg | Potassium: 186mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 2IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 118mg | Iron: 3mg