Short description
Decadent yet nutritious muffins that combine creamy almond butter, rich dark chocolate, and protein-packed ingredients for a satisfying breakfast or snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These muffins are:
- High-protein and filling, thanks to ingredients like eggs, almond flour, and almond butter
- Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas and dark chocolate
- Quick and simple to prepare in just one bowl
- Balanced with healthy fats and no refined sugar crash
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (or coconut yogurt for dairy-free)
- 3 tablespoons creamy almond butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups blanched almond flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 banana (optional, for added natural sweetness)
- 1 bar dark chocolate (about 60 g), chopped, or ½ cup dark chocolate chips
- Pinch of salt
directions
- Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or use silicone cups.
- In one bowl, whisk together eggs, yogurt, almond butter, vanilla, and mashed banana (if using) until smooth.
- In another bowl, mix almond flour, baking powder, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Combine wet ingredients into dry; stir until just combined. Fold in chopped dark chocolate or chips.
- Divide batter evenly into muffin cups.
- Bake 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in tin for a few minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
Servings and timing
- Makes: 12 muffins
- Prep time: ~10 minutes
- Bake time: 18–22 minutes
- Total time: ~30 minutes
Variations
- Gluten-free/dairy-free: Already gluten-free; use coconut yogurt for a dairy-free option
- Banana-free: Omit banana and increase almond butter or yogurt slightly for moisture
- Add-ins: Try chopped almonds, cacao nibs, or swirl extra almond butter on top before baking
- Flavor tweak: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or espresso powder for enhanced depth
storage/reheating
- Room temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days
- Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days
- Freezer: Freeze cooled muffins for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight or microwave for about 15 seconds before serving
FAQs
1. Can I use peanut butter instead of almond butter?
Yes, you can substitute peanut butter. Choose a creamy, stirred variety for best texture.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the use of almond flour makes this recipe naturally gluten-free.
3. Can I omit yogurt?
You can replace yogurt with mashed banana or applesauce, though the texture may vary.
4. How can I make it vegan?
Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and non-dairy yogurt.
5. Can I reduce the sugar further?
Yes, use unsweetened dark chocolate and omit the banana. Note that the muffins will be less sweet.
6. Are these muffins good for breakfast?
Yes, they’re a great option for a protein-rich, satisfying breakfast.
7. How many calories per muffin?
Each muffin contains approximately 180–200 calories, depending on exact ingredients.
8. Can I add protein powder?
Yes, you can add up to ½ cup protein powder. You may need to slightly increase the wet ingredients.
9. Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, the batter can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Muffins may be slightly denser when baked later.
10. How do I keep them moist?
Avoid overmixing and remove them from the oven when a toothpick has a few moist crumbs.
Conclusion
These Almond Butter Chocolate Protein Muffins are a healthy, delicious, and convenient way to enjoy a chocolatey treat. Whether you’re fueling up for the day or looking for a clean snack option, these muffins are easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and ideal for meal prep.
Print
Almond Butter Chocolate Protein Muffins
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes + 20 minutes chilling
- Yield: 12–14 energy balls 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These Chia Seed Lemon Energy Balls are a refreshing and nutritious snack packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Perfect for on-the-go energy boosts or a light, healthy treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional, for rolling)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, chia seeds, and lemon zest.
- Add almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and lemon juice. Mix until well combined and sticky.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 15–20 minutes to make it easier to roll.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- If desired, roll each ball in shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
- Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
- You can substitute almond butter with peanut butter or sunflower seed butter for nut-free options.
- Adjust the lemon juice and zest according to your preferred tartness.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 energy ball
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *