Chunky Monkey Giant Banana Protein Cookie

When a craving for something sweet and satisfying hits, why settle for a sugar-laden treat that will leave you sluggish? Instead, say hello to the Chunky Monkey Giant Banana Protein Cookie—a single-serving, high-protein cookie recipe that satisfies without the guilt! Whether you need a post-workout protein snack, a healthier dessert, a bedtime snack, or even breakfast, this easy protein cookie delivers on taste and nutrition.

 This isn’t just any cookie—it’s a gluten-free protein cookie, a healthy dessert alternative that’s both indulgent and nourishing. Instead of ending up with dozens of cookies tempting you for days, this recipe bakes up just one giant cookie, keeping portion control effortless. Plus, this cooking for one recipe is so easy to make that you can even bake it in a toaster oven recipe for a quick, no-fuss treat.

Nutritional Benefits for Your Active Lifestyle

Not only does this big banana cookie taste amazing, but it also boasts impressive macros that make it a smart choice for active lifestyles:

  • 498 calories – A hearty and satisfying portion that keeps you full.
  • 33g+ protein – Ideal for muscle recovery, metabolism support, and satiety.
  • 10g dietary fiber – About 40% of your daily value, promoting digestion and gut health.
  • Balanced carbs and healthy fats – Provides steady energy without sugar crashes.

Smart Snack Anytime – Here’s Why!

  • Post-Workout Recovery: High protein from whey protein powder, peanut butter powder and egg content aids in muscle repair and growth.
  • Healthier Dessert Alternative: Sweet, satisfying, and nutrient-dense without the refined sugars, I used organic eryithritol but you can use another equivalent measure low-carb sweetener or even coconut sugar, cane sugar, ect (note, those will affect macros).
  • Bedtime Snack: Helps curb late-night cravings and keeps you full longer.
  • Breakfast On-the-Go: Wholesome ingredients give you the fuel to start your day right.

The Chunky Monkey name isn’t just for fun—this cookie is packed with classic banana, chocolate, and peanut butter flavors that make it irresistibly good. The natural sweetness of banana, the richness of dark chocolate, and the creaminess of peanut butter come together for a healthy post-workout snack that’s both delicious and nutritious. MIx-ins include sugar-free mini chocolate chips, chopped peanuts (or your nut of choice), broken bits of banana chips, and even diced fresh banana!  I like to say, it’s chunky with deliciousness, not with guilt!

So next time you’re craving a cookie, whip up this giant protein cookie recipe and indulge with confidence. One cookie, endless satisfaction!

Chunky Monkey Giant Protein Cookie
Prep Time
7 mins
Cook Time
12 mins
cool
1 min
Total Time
20 mins
 
Chunked up with deliciousness, not guilt – the perfect post-workout snack, healthier dessert, bedtime snack – even breakfast! With 498 cal and more than 33g protein, it’s perfect for sharing. Also, bonus, gluten-free and 10g dietary fiber.
Course: Dessert, Snack
Keyword: banana, cookie, protein powder
Servings: 1
Calories: 498 kcal
Ingredients
  • ¼ cup whey protein powder
  • 2 Tbsp peanut butter powder like PbFit
  • 2 Tbsp coconut flour
  • 2 Tbsp erythritol sweetener or other approximate cup for cup sugar alternative, like a stevia baking blend — or use cane or coconut sugar, but will affect macros
  • 1/8 tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp baking powder
  • 1 Tbsp butter melted
  • 1 Tbsp egg white from carton
  • ¼ small banana diced
  • 2 tsp sugar-free chocolate chips
  • 2 tsp chopped peanuts
  • 2 tsp chopped banana chips
Instructions
  1. Pre-heat oven or toaster oven to 350F.
  2. In medium bowl, mix together protein powder, peanut butter powder, coconut flour, sugar substitute (erythritol), baking soda and salt until combined.
  3. Stir in melted butter and egg white, stir until a sticky dough forms.
  4. Mix in diced banana, gently. If needed add a bit more coconut flour (1 tsp. at a time) if it seems to wet.
  5. Next stir in MOST (but not quite all) of the chunky ingredients (peanuts, chocolate chips, banana chips), reserving just a little extra for the topping.
  6. Form dough into a ball and flatten into approximate ½” thickness onto a baking sheet. Pat the reserved toppings onto top of cookie.
  7. Bake in preheated 350F oven or toaster oven for 11-13 minutes or until turning golden brown. Let cool on pan one minute, then enjoy!
Recipe Notes

 Beef Stroganoff Soup: A Comforting Classic with a Better-for-You Twist

Beef Stroganoff is a beloved classic, known for its creamy, savory goodness and tender bites of beef. But what if we turned this hearty dish into a soul-warming soup—one that delivers all the comforting flavors you love while incorporating some smarter ingredient swaps? My healthy beef stroganoff soup is exactly that: an umami-packed soup, protein-rich bowl of satisfaction with a few better-for-you modifications.

A Leaner, Yet Flavorful Take: To keep things on the lighter side without sacrificing taste, I opted for sirloin tips—a lean yet tender cut of beef that holds up beautifully in a simmering broth. This choice delivers the rich beefy flavor of traditional Stroganoff while keeping the fat content in check, making it a great high-protein soup recipe for any meal.

Smart Ingredient Swaps: Instead of using sour cream, I stirred in Greek yogurt to achieve that signature creamy tang while adding extra protein and gut-friendly probiotics. Greek yogurt not only enhances the soup’s luscious texture but also provides a nutritional boost, making this an excellent low-carb comfort food option.

Don’t Do Wine, Don’t Worry! A splash of balsamic vinegar in place of red wine works wonderfully. This little trick adds depth and complexity, mirroring the slightly acidic balance that wine brings to the dish while keeping the recipe accessible to more people.

Protein-Packed and Satisfying:  Each serving of this easy beef stroganoff soup boasts an impressive 31 grams of protein per bowl, making it a fantastic option for fueling your day or recovering post-workout. The combination of lean beef, Greek yogurt, and a rich, savory broth ensures every spoonful is both nourishing and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

  • Comforting and hearty: All the cozy flavors of classic Beef Stroganoff in a warm, spoonable format.
  • Lighter yet satisfying: Smart swaps make this dish more nutrient-dense without compromising taste.
  • Easy to make: Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.
  • Packed with protein: A balanced meal that fuels your body and keeps you full longer.
  • Great for meal prep: This high-protein beef soup stores well and tastes even better the next day.  When reheating, you may need to add a little extra beef broth as the noodles tend to soak up the liquids overnight in the fridge.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Beef Stroganoff or just looking for a new soup to add to your rotation, this bowl of goodness is sure to hit the spot. Grab a spoon and dig in!

Beef Stroganoff Soup with Greek Yogurt
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
45 mins
Total Time
55 mins
 

Turn a beloved classic into a nourishing, high-protein meal with this healthy beef stroganoff soup. Featuring lean sirloin tips, Greek yogurt for creaminess, and a splash of balsamic for depth, this umami-packed soup delivers all the comforting flavors you crave—without the heaviness. Each bowl boasts 31 grams of protein, making it a satisfying and nutritious option for meal prep or a cozy dinner. Dig into a warm, hearty dish that’s both delicious and better-for-you!

Course: dinner, entree soup, lunch
Cuisine: russian
Keyword: beef, greek yogurt, pasta, soup
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 364 kcal
Ingredients
  • 1 lb. beef sirloin steak cut into bite-size pieces
  • 2 tsp. paprika
  • 1 tsp. black pepper
  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil divided
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 12 oz. white or cremini mushrooms sliced (about 6 cups)
  • ½ cup chopped white onion
  • 2 Tbsp. minced garlic I used from jar
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • 2 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tsp. Dijon mustard
  • 8 cups beef broth
  • 6 oz. wide egg noodles about 3 cups, I used “No Yolks” brand
  • 2 Tbsp. cornstarch
  • 3/4 cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt
Instructions
  1. Heat a large Dutch oven or stock pot over medium-high. Toss beef with paprika, pepper, 1 tablespoon of the oil, and 1 teaspoon of the salt in a medium bowl until evenly coated. Add beef to pot and cook until lightly browned on all sides, turning occasionally, about 6-8 minutes total. Transfer to a plate; set aside.
  2. Leave crusty bits from beef and spices that form on the bottom of pan. Add remaining oil, heat to medium. Add mushrooms and onions, and saute for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned. Next, stir in garlic and thyme and cook, stirring constantly, for another 1 minute.
  3. Stir broth into pot, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, scraping up any browned bits accumulated on bottom of pot. Add in Balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire, and mustard.
  4. Next put cooked beef back into pot, along with any accumulated juices on plate.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low and gently simmer, uncovered, for about 30 minutes.
  6. Add egg noodles. Simmer over medium-low, uncovered and stirring occasionally, until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
  7. In a medium bowl, make a cornstarch slurry by whisking together the cornstarch with about 3 tablespoons of broth from the pot. Add Greek yogurt to this slurry bowl and then stir in another approximate 1 cup of broth from the pot, stirring until creamy and smooth.
  8. Remove Dutch oven from heat and stir in the sour cream mixture to create a creamy thick base.
Recipe Notes

Cottage Cheese Protein Banana Bread – 19g Protein per slice!

They say necessity is the mother of invention, and that’s exactly how banana bread came to be. Our grandmothers (or great-grandmothers) started baking it back in the 1930s as a way to use up overripe bananas instead of letting them go to waste during the Depression era. Fast forward to today, and while I’m still mindful of minimizing food waste, I also want a banana bread that does more than just taste good—I want it to fuel me with protein and keep me satisfied.

That’s where this Cottage Cheese Protein Banana Bread comes in. When friends at the gym ask me how to make banana bread with more protein, I always give them this healthy banana bread with cottage cheese idea.

It has all the classic banana bread flavors —moist, sweet, and comforting—but with a powerhouse boost of protein to make it a smart choice for breakfast or a pre-/post-workout snack. Cottage cheese adds creaminess and protein without overpowering the banana flavor, and there’s no added sugar since ripe bananas naturally provide plenty of sweetness.

I also use vanilla protein powder in this cottage cheese banana bread recipe to make it even more protein rich. Choose a flavor like vanilla or even cake batter – the light sweetness (usually sugar-free) in these protein powders is also a way to avoid having to add sugar or a sweetener to the banana bread batter. However, if you use an unflavored protein powder or your bananas were not to that super-sweet ripe point yet (or you just like a sweeter bread/cake), you can add about 10 drops or so of a liquid stevia or liquid monk fruit to increase sweetness.

Each slice of this easy protein banana bread packs 19g of protein and just 253 calories, making it a great option whether you need a grab-and-go breakfast, a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, or a post-gym recovery snack. It’s proof that a little creativity in the kitchen can go a long way in making healthy, high-protein choices delicious and easy.

Give this easy high-protein banana bread a try! It’s also easy to customize by sprinkling your favorite chopped nuts, seeds or shredded coconut on the top before baking – or even sugar-free chocolate chips.   

 Cottage Cheese Protein Banana Bread makes an easy breakfast, lunchbox treat, or great workout snack with 19g protein and 253 calories, no added sugar and can be made gluten-free.
Cottage Cheese Protein Banana Bread
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
35 mins
Total Time
45 mins
 
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: high protein, sugar free
Keyword: banana, high protein
Servings: 8 thick slices
Calories: 253 kcal
Ingredients
  • 1 cup 2% cottage cheese
  • 1 ¼ cup mashed ripe banana about 2 medium
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 1/3 cup protein powder vanilla
  • 1 cup all purpose flour or gluten-free baking blend
  • *10-20 stevia or monk fruit drops optional
  • Cooking spray
  • 1-2 tablespoons optional topping like chopped nuts, sugar-free chocolate chips, coconut, etc. optional
Instructions
  1. Pre-heat oven to 350F.
  2. Add cottage cheese, mashed banana (or just the hunks), eggs and oil to blender and blend for about 60 seconds until smooth and well combined.
  3. Add salt, baking soda, cinnamon, and protein powder to blender, blending for about 30 seconds until incorporated. Next add pulsing in and scraping down sides of blender with spatula, as needed. Do not over blend mixture.
  4. Depending on your sweetness preference and/or ripeness of bananas or sweetness of protein powder you may want to add 10-20 drops of liquid stevia or monk fruit. I did NOT however, and it was still nicely, lightly sweet.
  5. Pour mixture into a standard loaf pan that has been liberally sprayed with cooking spray. If desired, sprinkle and desired topping on before baking.
  6. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes until center set and toothpick pulls clean. Let cool in pan for 15 minutes; cut in 8 thick slices.
  7. Store leftovers in fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in microwave for 10 seconds.
Recipe Notes

Hassle-Free Sheet Pan Pancake Recipes to Simplify Breakfast Chaos

Why stand over a hot skillet flipping pancakes when you can bake up a big batch all at once? February is Pancake Month, and it’s the perfect time to embrace the ease of sheet pan pancakes. These easy pancake recipes feed a crowd with minimal effort—simply bake, slice, and serve! Plus, they freeze beautifully in individual portions, making pancake meal prep for busy mornings a breeze.

Sheet Pan Pancake Ideas -- lower carb, high protein, gluten free for quick breakfasts and meal prep

The Benefits of Sheet Pan Pancakes:

  • No flipping required – just pour, bake, and enjoy.
  • Feeds a crowd – great for meal prep or serving family and friends. Baked pancakes are ideal for entertaining.
  • Freezer-friendly pancakes – store individual squares for easy breakfasts, just freeze, defrost and reheat!
  • Better-for-you ingredients – lower sugar, higher protein options to keep you fueled. I am al about high protein pancakes and gluten-free pancakes.

My Favorite Sheet Pan Pancakes

Almond Joy Sheet Pan Pancakes (Gluten-free, Vegan, No Added Sugar) – A delicious chocolate-coconut-almond twist on pancakes. Read more

Fall in love with these Red Velvet Sheet Pan Protein Pancakes made with pancake mix, chocolate protein powder, and beet root powder for that classic red velvet vibe . . . but with better-for-you ingredients. No flipping, no fuss—just bake and enjoy! Each pancake has 15g protein and 235calories to fuel your day.  

Red Velvet Sheet Pan Protein Pancakes – A festive and protein-packed take on a classic flavor. Read more

Embrace pumpkin season while minimizing morning stress with this easy sheet pan pancake recipe! Cottage cheese blended into the batter adds extra richness and protein while the ground up oats create a gluten-free, fiber-packed flour. Plus, that cinnamon, nutty streusel topping adds a pleasing sweetness and crunch to this convenient and yummy fall breakfast. Feed a crowd, or meal prep and store in single-portion servings in the freezer for busy mornings.

Pumpkin Streusel Sheet Pan Pancakes (Gluten-free) – Warm pumpkin flavors with a delicious streusel topping. Read more

Cranberry Orange Pecan Sheet Pan Pancakes cranberry pecan pancake Christmas morning breakfast ideas Easy pancake recipes using mix Low-carb sheet pan pancakes Stress free holiday brunch idea

Cranberry Orange Pecan Sheet Pan Pancakes (Low-carb, Paleo, Gluten-free) – A bright, nutty, and tangy combination perfect for winter mornings. Read more

Paleo Peach Blueberry Crumble Sheet Pan Pancakes

Peach Blueberry Crumble Sheet Pan Pancakes (Paleo) – Bursting with juicy fruit and a delightful crumble topping. Read more

Paleo Protein Baking and Pancake Mix using Clean Lean Protein from Nuzest

DIY Paleo Protein Baking & Pancake Mix – A versatile mix for high-protein, gluten-free pancakes. Read more

    Bonus Tip: My favorite plant-based protein, Clean Lean Protein by Nuzest, is a great addition to pancakes for an extra protein boost. Save 15% with my code FITFORK15!

    Celebrate Pancake Month the easy way—ditch the skillet, grab a sheet pan, and enjoy delicious, nutritious pancakes that fit your lifestyle!

    Sheet Pan Pancake Ideas -- lower carb, high protein, gluten free for quick breakfasts and meal prep

    Raspberry Cottage Cheese Mousse – High-Protein, Low-carb, and No-Fuss!

    Looking for a high-protein mousse recipe that’s as easy as it is delicious? This Raspberry Cottage Cheese Mousse is the perfect no-bake raspberry dessert for Valentine’s Day or any time you crave something sweet. Made with just three simple ingredients—cottage cheese, protein powder, and fresh raspberries—with an optional splash of vanilla for extra flavor. No baking, no fuss, just blend it up and enjoy!

    Why You’ll Love This Mousse

    • Incredibly Simple – Three ingredients, one blender, and you’re done.
    • No Cooking Required – Perfect for busy days or those who are less familiar with the kitchen!
    • High in Protein, Low in Carbs – This cottage cheese mousse boasts impressive macros: 167 calories, 28g protein, and just 2g net carbs per serving.
    • Ultra Creamy & Delicious – If you think you don’t like cottage cheese, just try this blended cottage cheese recipe! Whipping it up in a blender transforms the curds into a rich, smooth, and luxurious texture.

    Cottage Cheese – The Secret Protein Powerhouse

    Cottage cheese is one of the simplest, most affordable ways to add extra protein to your day. It’s packed with casein protein, which digests slowly and keeps you full longer. If the texture has kept you away in the past, blending it is a game-changer! It turns incredibly smooth and works perfectly in both sweet and savory dishes.

    Check out some of my other popular cottage cheese-based recipes:

    This single portion lasagna made in a mug for one is a quick, nutrition and delicious meal that is ready in minutes. A perfectly portioned, high-protein and lower carb solution for your busy lunch hour or a hectic evening. Easy to meal prep ahead and then heat and eat when ready. Gluten free and vegetarian.

    No-Noodle Veggie Mug Lasagna for One – A quick and nutritious single-serving lasagna packed with protein and veggies, perfect for a healthy meal in minutes.

    High Protein Banana Pudding: A healthy twist on this classic comfort food allows you to enjoy dessert with no guilt while making gains on your daily protein goals! Only 285 calories per serving, with 30g protein! Lower carb, lower, sugar, gluten-free.

    High-Protein Banana Pudding with Cottage Cheese – A creamy, high-protein dessert made with cottage cheese for a healthier twist on the classic banana pudding.

    A guilt-free makeover on a classic dessert favorite – Caramel Protein Tiramisu! Swapping out traditional ingredients for healthier options like blended cottage cheese for mascarpone cheese and rice cakes for lady fingers creates a protein dessert that nourishes with 31g protein for only 281 calories.

    Caramel Protein Tiramisu with Rice Cake Layers – A lightened-up no-bake tiramisu featuring caramel protein, cottage cheese, and rice cakes for a satisfying treat.

    For this easy high-protein dessert, I love using Nuzest Clean Lean Protein—it’s plant-based, easy to digest, and has a smooth texture that blends seamlessly into recipes. I’ve been using it for years! Want to try it? Use my discount code FITFORK for 15% off your order.

    So grab your blender and give this raspberry protein mousse a try! It’s a healthy Valentine’s Day treat that loves you back with every bite.

    This Raspberry Cottage Cheese Protein Mousse is the ultimate Keep It Simple Stupid Valentine’s treat for two— or anytime healthy, high-protein dessert. Just a few ingredients, no cooking, and packed with great nutrition. Macros that’ll fill your heart with joy: 167 cal, 28g protein, 2g net carb.
    Raspberry Cottage Cheese Protein Mousse
    Prep Time
    5 mins
    Total Time
    5 mins
     
    This Raspberry Cottage Cheese Protein Mousse is the ultimate Keep It Simple Stupid Valentine’s treat for two—just a few ingredients, no cooking, and packed with protein! Macros that’ll fill your heart with joy: 167 cal, 28g protein, 2g net carb.
    Course: Dessert, Snack
    Cuisine: high protein, low carb
    Keyword: cottage cheese, low carb dessert, protein powder, rasberries, raspberry, valentines day
    Servings: 2 servings
    Calories: 167 kcal
    Ingredients
    • 1 cups 2% milk fat cottage cheese
    • 2/3 cup fresh raspberries
    • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1/3 cup vanilla whey protein powder or can use cake batter or similar flavor
    • Optional garnish: Fresh raspberries and whipped cream
    • Optional garnish: Fresh raspberries and whipped cream
    Instructions
    1. In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, raspberries, protein powder and vanilla extract.

    2. Blend until smooth and creamy. Spoon the mousse into two serving glasses.

    3. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving. Garnish as desired.

    Recipe Notes