Easy DIY High-Protein Snack Recipes

Searching for quick, protein-rich snacks that are both delicious and easy to make? Look no further. These snack recipes pack a powerful protein punch and are ideal for keeping you fueled throughout the day.

Whether you have a sweet tooth or prefer something savory, these snacks are sure to satisfy your cravings while contributing positively to your nutrition goals. 

High Protein Snack Recipes

Spicy Roasted Chickpeas

Chickpeas are a fantastic source of protein and fiber, making them an excellent snack for sustaining energy levels. When roasted with spices, they transform into a crunchy, satisfying treat.

After whipping up these high-protein snack recipes, for those busy days when cooking might not fit into your schedule, exploring meal kit delivery options could be a lifesaver. Utilizing a meal kit delivery coupon can make enjoying nutritious meals convenient without compromising on variety or flavor.

Ingredients:

1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas.

1 tablespoon of olive oil.

1/2 teaspoon of each: ground cumin, paprika, and garlic powder.

Salt and chili powder to taste.

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse and drain the chickpeas, then pat dry.
3. Toss the chickpeas with olive oil and spices until evenly coated.
4. Spread onto a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for about 20-30 minutes or until crispy.

These zesty morsels are not only easy to make but also serve as a hearty, protein-rich snack any time of day. You could also give air-fried chickpeas a go! 

Cottage Cheese and Fruit Crunch 

If you’re serious about eating delicious, fitness-friendly, protein-rich meals, you might like to use the services of a meal delivery company. That way, you can ensure you’re getting the protein you need without sacrificing taste.

But you’ll still want to ensure you have protein-packed snacks at hand throughout the day, which is why it’s helpful to know a few great recipes you can easily make yourself in no time.

First up, for a quick, energy-boosting snack, try cottage cheese and fruit crunch. Cottage cheese is a stellar source of protein which helps in muscle repair and growth. Paired with fruit and a crunchy element, it’s transformed into a delightful snack that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of low-fat cottage cheese.
• 1/2 cup of fresh diced pineapple, berries, or raisins.
• 2 tablespoons of chopped nuts or seeds (like walnuts or pumpkin seeds).

Steps:

1. Place the cottage cheese in a serving bowl.
2. Top with your choice of fruit for a natural sweetness.
3. Sprinkle with nuts or seeds to add texture and an extra nutrient boost.

This combination isn’t just tasty – it packs a significant protein punch while keeping things light and refreshing.

Peanut Butter Balls

If you want a snack that hits the sweet spot while packing in the protein, peanut butter balls are an ideal choice. They offer a blend of healthy fats, protein, and just enough carbohydrates to give you a lift during a mid-day slump.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of natural peanut butter.
• 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup.
• 1/2 cup of rolled oats.
• 1/4 cup of ground flax seeds.
• A sprinkle of chocolate chips or dried fruit (optional).

Steps:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and honey or maple syrup.
2. Stir in the rolled oats and ground flax seeds until the mixture is well-blended.
3. Fold in the chocolate chips or dried fruit if using them.
4. Roll the mixture into small balls and refrigerate until firm.

These bites are not only satisfying but provide about eight grams of protein per serving – perfect for on-the-go snacking!

Almond Butter Bites

Almond butter, a heart-healthy source of protein and fats, is the star of these energy bites. Mixed with oats and seeds, they make a portable and satiating snack.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup of almond butter.
• 1 cup of rolled oats.
• 1/4 cup of honey or agave syrup.
• 2 tablespoons of chia seeds.

Steps:

1. In a large bowl, mix the almond butter and honey until smooth.
2. Stir in the oats and chia seeds until the mixture is thoroughly combined.
3. Roll into small balls.
4. Chill before serving.

Enjoy these almond butter energy bites anytime you need a quick boost – they’re perfect for a nutritious snack on the go! You could swap out the almond butter for another nut butter of your choice.

Strawberry Soup

Yogurt is a great source of protein, and you can use regular strawberry yogurt, or greek yogurt.

Ingredients

• strawberry yogurt of your choice
• frozen or fresh strawberries.

Instructions

• Place your yogurt in a blender.
• Top with your strawberries.
• Blend until smooth.
• Pour into a container and store in the fridge. 
• Scoop out some when you are ready and enjoy!

Want to see more on this recipe? Find the full recipe at Super Easy and Delicious Chilled Strawberry Soup

Black Bean Dip

Combine black beans and greek yogurt and you have a super high protein snack!

Ingredients

• 1 can of refried black beans
• 1/2 cup greek yogurt
• salsa (optional)

Steps

1. Place the beans in a microwave safe bowl.
2. Add 1/2 cup greek yogurt
3. Optional – add salsa to taste
4. Heat for 1 minute
5. Stir the mixture together
6. Heat for an additional minute, or until the mixture is warm
7. Stir and Serve with vegetables, or whole grain tortilla chips

The joke in our house is that we call this poor man’s dip, as we ate it in our college years a lot when we didn’t have a bunch of money. This is one of our favorite savory snacks.

Apple and Nut Butter

This recipe is super simple and easy for a grab and go snack.

Ingredients

• 1 Apple
• Nut Butter of your choice

Steps

1. Slice the apple
2. Spread some nut butter onto the apple slices
3. Enjoy

This is a great snack for kids who are active in sports, it’s an easy grab and go snack.

High Protein Snack Recipes Q & A

What snacks are very high in protein?

Several snacks are high in protein and can be great options for boosting your protein intake:

1. Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt is rich in protein, typically containing around 15-20 grams of protein per 6-ounce serving. Opt for plain Greek yogurt to avoid added sugars.
2. Cottage Cheese: Cottage cheese is another dairy product high in protein, providing about 12-15 grams of protein per half-cup serving.
3. Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, peanuts, cashews, and pumpkin seeds are all excellent sources of protein. A handful of nuts or seeds can provide around 5-7 grams of protein.
4. Hard-Boiled Eggs: Eggs are a complete protein source and are convenient for snacking. One large egg contains approximately 6 grams of protein.
5. Jerky: Beef jerky, turkey jerky, or even vegan jerky made from soy or seitan are high-protein snacks. They can provide around 7-10 grams of protein per ounce.
6. Protein Bars: Many protein bars are specifically formulated to be high in protein, with some containing 15-20 grams of protein per bar. Look for bars with minimal added sugars and ingredients.
7. Edamame: Edamame, or steamed soybeans, are a nutritious snack high in protein, providing about 8 grams of protein per half-cup serving.
8. Protein Smoothies: Blend protein powder with fruits, vegetables, and a liquid base like milk or almond milk to create a high-protein smoothie. Depending on the protein powder and ingredients used, a smoothie can provide 20-30 grams of protein per serving.

These snacks can help you meet your daily protein needs and can be incorporated into a balanced diet for better overall health and fitness.

What snack foods have the most protein?

If you’re looking for snack foods that are exceptionally high in protein, here are some options:

1. Beef Jerky: Beef jerky is a concentrated source of protein, providing about 9-10 grams of protein per one-ounce serving. It’s portable, shelf-stable, and makes for a convenient high-protein snack.
2. Turkey Jerky: Similar to beef jerky, turkey jerky is another great option, offering around 9-10 grams of protein per one-ounce serving. It’s a leaner alternative to beef jerky.
3. Peanut Butter: Peanut butter is not only delicious but also a good source of protein. Two tablespoons of peanut butter contain roughly 8 grams of protein. Spread it on whole-grain crackers or celery sticks for a satisfying snack.
4. Cottage Cheese: Cottage cheese is a dairy product that’s particularly high in protein. A half-cup serving can provide around 12-15 grams of protein. You can enjoy it plain or add fruit for a sweet twist.
5. Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt is strained to remove whey, resulting in a thicker consistency and higher protein content compared to regular yogurt. A six-ounce serving typically contains 15-20 grams of protein.
6. Hard-Boiled Eggs: Eggs are a complete protein source, meaning they contain all nine essential amino acids. One large egg provides about 6 grams of protein, making hard-boiled eggs a convenient and nutritious snack.
7. Edamame: Edamame, or young soybeans, are rich in protein and make for a satisfying snack. A half-cup serving of cooked edamame contains approximately 8 grams of protein.
8. Protein Bars: Protein bars are specifically designed to be high in protein, with some bars providing as much as 20-30 grams of protein per serving. Look for bars with minimal added sugars and ingredients. You don’t always have to have store-bought protein bars, you can make your own as well.

Incorporating these high-protein snack foods into your diet can help you meet your daily protein needs and keep you feeling satisfied between meals.

High Protein Snacks In The Stores

Don’t have time to make the recipes? There are several options you can purchase at the store.

1. Protein Muffins: Look for savory muffins made with almond flour, shredded chicken, and chia seeds in the bakery section or specialty health food stores.
2. Granola Bars: Check the cereal or snack bar aisle for pre-packaged granola bars made with whole grains, nuts, and seeds. Look for options with high protein content.
3. Flavorful Cookies: Explore the cookie aisle for protein-rich cookies made with almond flour, nut butters, and dried fruit. Look for brands that prioritize natural ingredients.
4. Plant-Based Protein Hummus: Find plant-based hummus options in the refrigerated section near the deli or in the produce department. Pair with whole grain tortilla chips from the snack aisle.
5. Coconut Chia Pudding: Check the refrigerated section for pre-made chia pudding cups made with coconut milk. Look for options with added omega-3 sources like chia seeds.
6. Tuna Salad Wrap: Look for pre-made tuna salad wraps or kits in the deli or grab-and-go section of the store. Choose options made with whole grain tortillas for added fiber.
7. Protein-Packed Trail Mix: Explore the snack aisle for pre-packaged trail mix blends containing nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and whole grain cereal. Look for options with higher protein content.
8. Calcium-Rich Cottage Cheese: Find single-serve cups of cottage cheese in the dairy aisle. Pair with pre-portioned whole grain crackers available in the cracker aisle or near the cheese section.

By purchasing these pre-made options, you can enjoy convenient and nutritious snacks without the need for extensive preparation.