Tasty Recipes for Home Athletes

Protein is an essential part of a balanced diet, especially for people who exercise at home and are concerned with being healthy. Protein powder can be a convenient way to increase your protein intake, and it’s not just for shakes and smoothies!

In this article, we discuss the considerations of baking with protein powder, the pros and cons, and share some delicious recipes that are perfect for at-home exercisers.

Things to keep in mind when baking with protein powder

Using protein powder in baking recipes can sometimes present some challenges, such as finding the right balance between ingredients, adjusting cooking time and temperature, and choosing the right type of protein powder. In addition, there are several benefits of protein powder that you can take advantage of by using it in your recipes.

You may also want to read our article about the best protein powders.

Where to use your protein powder bakes

Before we get to the recipes, it’s good to see how you can use your baked goods with protein powder throughout the day and when it’s best.

High protein breakfast

Start your day well with a protein-rich breakfast. Try pancakes with whey protein powder, oatmeal with a scoop of plant-based protein powder, or a tasty protein-rich smoothie.

Protein-rich snacks and snacks

Give yourself an energy boost between meals with low-calorie snacks and snacks that are also high in protein. Think of protein bars, protein cookies or healthy snacks and snacks with added protein powder.

High protein desserts

Enjoy a delicious dessert without the guilt by adding protein powder to your favorite recipes. For example, try chocolate protein brownies, cheesecake with a touch of protein powder, or high-protein muffins.

Baking with whey protein powder

Whey protein powder is a popular ingredient for baking recipes due to its versatility and high protein content. Use it in pancakes, waffles, or muffins for an extra protein boost.

Baking with vegetable protein powders

Plant-based protein powders, such as pea or rice protein, are an excellent option for people who prefer to avoid animal products. Use them in vegan recipes or as an alternative to whey protein powder in your favorite baking recipes.

Baking with casein protein powder

Casein protein powder has a slower release of protein in the body and can contribute to long-term satiety. Try casein protein powder in recipes like overnight oats, pudding, or slow baked goods.

Tips for successful baking with protein powder

To help you with baking, here are some tips for baking with protein powder. Protein powder is not cheap and with these tips you will not waste it.

Don’t replace all the flour

Protein powder can change the texture of your baked goods. Therefore, do not replace all the flour in a recipe, but start with part of it to prevent your baking from becoming too dry or tough.

Adjust cooking time and temperature

Baking with protein powder can affect cooking time and temperature. It may be necessary to lower the temperature slightly and extend the baking time to prevent your bakes from drying out too quickly.

Use flavorings and sweeteners

Protein powders can sometimes have a slight aftertaste, so you may need to add extra flavorings and sweeteners to make your recipes more palatable.

You can use flavor drops for this, for example. I also use this a lot in my baking and for example through the cottage cheese. Cheesecake is the flavor I recommend!

Protein powder recipes

High-protein pancakes

Recipe and method of preparation

• 1 cup of oatmeal
• 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or neutral flavor)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1 cup of milk (vegetable or animal)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Mix the dry ingredients in one bowl and combine the wet ingredients in another bowl. Add the wet ingredients to the dry and mix until smooth. Fry the pancakes in a preheated pan over medium heat until golden brown.

Benefits of protein-rich pancakes as a healthy and nutritious breakfast

High protein pancakes are a great way to start your day with a high protein breakfast. They help you feel fuller longer, support muscle growth and recovery, and provide energy throughout the day. Reading tip: Our article about which supplements help with muscle recovery.

High protein muffins

Recipe and method of preparation

• 1 1/2 cup oatmeal
• 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or neutral flavor)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup milk (vegetable or animal)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup berries, nuts or chocolate chips of your choice

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Mix the dry ingredients in one bowl and combine the wet ingredients in another bowl. Add the wet ingredients to the dry and mix until smooth. Add the berries, nuts or chocolate chips and mix gently. Divide the batter between the muffin tins and bake for 20-25 minutes.

Healthy snacks with protein powder for energy and muscle recovery

High protein muffins are a delicious and nutritious option for healthy snacks and snacks. They provide your body with essential nutrients and protein needed for energy and muscle recovery.

High protein banana bread

Recipe and method of preparation

• 1 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or neutral flavor)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, optional

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 175°C. Mix the dry ingredients in one bowl and combine the wet ingredients in another bowl. Add the wet ingredients to the dry and mix until smooth. Add the nuts if using and mix gently. Pour the batter into a greased loaf tin and bake for 50-60 minutes.

A nutritious snack with healthy ingredients

High protein banana bread is a nutritious snack rich in protein, healthy fats and nutrients from bananas. This makes it a great option for those looking for healthy, nutritious and tasty snacks.

High-protein cookies

Recipe and method of preparation

• 1 cup of oatmeal
• 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or neutral flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/3 cup coconut oil or butter, melted
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Mix the dry ingredients in one bowl and combine the wet ingredients in another bowl. Add the wet ingredients to the dry and mix until smooth. Add the chocolate chips or nuts and mix gently. Spoon tablespoons of the batter onto a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.

A responsible alternative to traditional biscuits

Protein-rich biscuits are a healthier alternative to traditional biscuits. They contain more protein and nutrients, making them a great choice for low-calorie snacks and snacks.

High-protein smoothies

Recipe and method of preparation

• 1 cup frozen fruit (e.g. berries, mango or pineapple)
• 1 cup spinach or kale (optional)
• 1 cup of milk (vegetable or animal)
• 1/2 cup yogurt or cottage cheese (optional)
• 1 scoop protein powder (vanilla or other neutral flavor)
• 1 tablespoon chia, flax, or hemp seeds (optional)
• Sweetener to taste, if needed (e.g. honey, maple syrup, or stevia)

Instructions

Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth, creamy texture. Adjust the thickness by adding more milk or ice cream if necessary. Taste and add sweetener if desired.

The convenience of protein powder in smoothies for a quick and healthy boost

High-protein smoothies are a great way to increase your daily protein intake, especially if you’re looking for a quick and healthy meal or snack. They are easy to prepare and can be adjusted to your personal taste preferences. In addition, they provide a wide range of nutrients from fruits, vegetables and other healthy ingredients.

Which protein powder do you need for baking?

When baking with protein powder, there are several factors to consider to make the best choice. In general, there are three popular types of protein powder that are commonly used in baking recipes: whey protein, casein protein, and plant-based protein powder.

Whey protein powder comes from milk and is quickly absorbed by the body. It is a good choice for baking airy and light products such as cakes, muffins and pancakes. Whey protein powder has a high protein content and helps promote muscle recovery after exercise. In addition, it has a neutral taste, which makes it easy to combine with other ingredients without disturbing the taste of your baking.

Casein protein powder, also derived from milk, is absorbed more slowly by the body. It is a good choice if you want to achieve a denser and firmer texture in your baking, such as with bread, bagels or energy bars. Casein protein powder also has a high protein content and promotes long-term muscle recovery.

Plant-based protein powder, such as pea, rice, hemp, or soy protein powder, is an excellent option for those following a vegan or lactose-free lifestyle. These protein powders have different flavors and properties, so it’s important to experiment and find out which works best for your specific baking recipes. In general, they work well in a wide variety of baked goods, from cakes and cookies to breads and brownies.

When choosing protein powder for baking, it’s also important to look at the ingredient list and make sure it doesn’t contain unnecessary additives like artificial sweeteners or preservatives. Preferably choose a protein powder with a high protein content and a low sugar and carbohydrate content.

In short, the best protein powder for baking depends on the desired end result, your dietary preferences and any dietary restrictions. It’s best to try different types of protein powders and experiment with recipes to find which works best for you and your baking needs.

I always use the MyProtein one myself. See below. It is best to choose Vanilla flavor so that you can use it in almost all recipes.

Conclusion

Baking with protein powder can be an excellent way to increase your protein intake and enjoy delicious and nutritious meals and snacks. Keep the considerations in mind when baking with protein powder and experiment with different recipes and protein powders to find the perfect combination that suits your taste and lifestyle. Don’t forget to combine the best sources of protein with your high-protein baked goods for a complete and balanced diet.