Name: Peanut Butter Pretzel Protein Cups
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup peanut butter; 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or chocolate); 1/4 cup honey; 1/2 cup pretzel crumbs (crushed pretzels for extra crunch); 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional, for topping); Pinch of sea salt

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These Peanut Butter Pretzel Protein Cups are a delicious and nutritious snack that satisfies my cravings for something sweet and salty while packing a punch of protein. Perfect for pre- or post-workout, or simply as a treat, these cups are the ideal balance of rich peanut butter, crunchy pretzels, and a boost of protein. They are also super easy to make, so I can whip them up in no time and enjoy them throughout the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love how these Peanut Butter Pretzel Protein Cups combine the best of both worlds—sweet and salty. The creamy peanut butter is the star of the show, while the pretzels add a satisfying crunch. Plus, with the added protein, I feel fueled and satisfied without the guilt. These cups are a perfect snack when I need something energizing but still want to indulge in something that tastes like dessert. I also appreciate how easy they are to prepare, and they store well, making them a go-to snack for busy days.

Ingredients

1 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or chocolate)
1/4 cup honey
1/2 cup pretzel crumbs (I use crushed pretzels for extra crunch)
1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional, for topping)
Pinch of sea salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a medium bowl, I combine the peanut butter, protein powder, and honey. Stir until well mixed.
Once the mixture is smooth, I fold in the pretzel crumbs. If I want extra crunch, I make sure the pretzel pieces are a bit larger.
I line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it, then divide the mixture evenly into the cups.
For an added touch, I sprinkle a few mini chocolate chips on top of each cup. If I want to keep them healthier, I skip this step.
I place the muffin tin in the fridge and let it chill for about 30 minutes, or until firm.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12 protein cups, depending on how large I make each one. They take around 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, in less than 40 minutes, I can have a batch of these delicious protein-packed treats ready to go.

Variations

Chocolate-Coated: If I’m in the mood for a richer treat, I melt some dark chocolate and dip the bottoms of the cups into it before chilling.
Nut Butter Swap: If peanut butter isn’t my thing, I can use almond or cashew butter for a different flavor.
Add-ins: I sometimes add dried fruit, such as cranberries or raisins, for an extra burst of sweetness and chewiness.

Storage/Reheating

I store these protein cups in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to one week. They also freeze really well! If I want to keep them longer, I can store them in the freezer for up to a month. When I’m ready to eat, I let them thaw for a few minutes, and they’re just as delicious as when I first made them.

FAQs

How can I make these Peanut Butter Pretzel Protein Cups vegan?

To make them vegan, I simply use plant-based protein powder and substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.

Can I use a different nut butter?

Absolutely! I love experimenting with different nut butters, like almond or cashew, for a different taste. Just make sure the consistency is similar to peanut butter.

How do I make these cups lower in sugar?

I can reduce the amount of honey or use a sugar-free sweetener such as stevia or monk fruit. Just keep in mind that it might alter the texture a bit.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, I can easily double the ingredients to make a larger batch. Just make sure to adjust the serving size accordingly.

Can I make these without protein powder?

If I don’t have protein powder, I can leave it out and still enjoy the peanut butter and pretzel combo. The protein powder adds a boost, but it’s not essential.

Conclusion

These Peanut Butter Pretzel Protein Cups are the perfect combination of flavor, texture, and nutrition. They’re simple to make and easily customizable, so I can adjust them to fit my preferences or dietary needs. Whether I’m looking for a quick snack or a post-workout treat, these cups never disappoint.