If you’re craving something sweet, satisfying, and surprisingly wholesome, this Chickpea Cookie Dough Recipe is going to become your new go-to treat. It’s everything you love about classic cookie dough but with a nutritious twist thanks to chickpeas, which add a silky texture and subtle earthy flavor while packing the recipe with protein and fiber. The magic is how effortlessly this recipe comes together in just minutes, delivering rich, chocolatey bites that you can enjoy guilt-free. Whether you need a quick snack or a fun dessert, this Chickpea Cookie Dough Recipe hits all the right notes with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To whip up this Chickpea Cookie Dough Recipe, you’ll need a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work in harmony to create a luscious, creamy dough. Each one plays a crucial role—from the base of chickpeas providing a smooth foundation, to the almond butter adding richness and moisture, and the vanilla protein powder bringing that subtle sweetness and extra nutrients.
- Chickpeas: Rinsed and drained, these are the star ingredient, giving the dough its creamy, smooth base and a boost of plant-based protein.
- Vanilla protein powder: Adds flavor depth and a slight sweetness, while enhancing the dough’s texture and nutritional profile.
- Almond butter or cashew butter: Provides a luscious, nutty richness that binds the dough together and makes each bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
- Coconut sugar: A natural sweetener that adds just the right touch of caramel-like warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Vanilla extract: Intensifies the overall sweetness and brings that irresistible classic cookie dough aroma.
- Sea salt: A pinch cuts through the sweetness, balancing the flavors beautifully and enhancing every ingredient’s taste.
- Vegan chocolate chips: The ultimate indulgence—tiny bursts of melty chocolate to satisfy your sweet tooth with every spoonful.
How to Make Chickpea Cookie Dough Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Chickpeas
Start by rinsing and draining a 15-ounce can of chickpeas thoroughly. This step is important to wash away the canning liquid, ensuring your cookie dough isn’t bitter or off-flavored. The chickpeas provide the creamy base of your dough, so having them clean and ready is key.
Step 2: Blend Chickpeas Until Smooth
Place the chickpeas in a large food processor and pulse them until they start to break down and become smooth. You may need to pause and scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula to get an even consistency. This forms the silky foundation of the dough, light and slightly fluffy.
Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients and Process
Next, add the vanilla protein powder, almond or cashew butter, coconut sugar, vanilla extract, and sea salt to the chickpeas in the processor. Blend everything together until the mixture forms a cohesive ball of dough. This step combines all the flavors and gives your dough that recognizable cookie texture.
Step 4: Incorporate Chocolate Chips
Using a spatula, gently separate the dough in the processor to make space for the vegan chocolate chips. Add them in and pulse just 2-3 times to evenly disperse the chips without breaking them down completely. Chunky pieces of chocolate throughout the dough create delightful bursts of sweetness.
Step 5: Enjoy or Store
Remove the luscious chickpea cookie dough from the processor and dig in right away! It’s irresistibly creamy and satisfying. If you have leftovers, transfer the dough into a sealed container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days to keep it fresh and ready for when the cookie dough craving strikes again.
How to Serve Chickpea Cookie Dough Recipe
Garnishes
One of the joys of this Chickpea Cookie Dough Recipe is how versatile it is for garnishing. Sprinkle extra vegan chocolate chips, a pinch of sea salt flakes, or even some crushed nuts on top for added texture and flavor. Fresh berries or a drizzle of almond butter also make for an elegant and delicious touch if you want to elevate your serving.
Side Dishes
This cookie dough pairs wonderfully with simple sides that complement its sweet, nutty profile. Try serving it alongside a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream or dolloped on fresh fruit for a refreshing balance. A cup of warm almond milk or herbal tea also makes a cozy companion to your indulgent bite of cookie dough.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get a little playful, try rolling the dough into bite-sized balls and freezing them for a chilled treat, or sandwiching spoonfuls between vegan crackers or cookies for a fun, edible sandwich. Layer it in a parfait with vegan yogurt and granola for an unexpected yet delicious dessert or snack that will surprise everyone.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover chickpea cookie dough should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh and flavorful for about 3 to 4 days. This makes it an ideal make-ahead treat—you can prepare it in advance and enjoy it whenever sweet cravings hit.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Portion the dough into balls or keep it in a block wrapped tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Frozen chickpea cookie dough can last up to one month. Just thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying to keep that perfect creamy texture.
Reheating
Since this cookie dough is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, reheating is not necessary and might alter the texture. Simply let frozen dough soften for a few minutes at room temperature or enjoy it somewhat chilled for a refreshing twist!
FAQs
Is this Chickpea Cookie Dough Recipe safe to eat raw?
Absolutely! Since this recipe uses cooked chickpeas and no raw eggs, it is perfectly safe and delicious to eat straight from the processor.
Can I use other nut butters instead of almond butter?
Yes! Cashew butter, peanut butter, or sunflower seed butter work wonderfully and provide slightly different flavor nuances. Just choose your favorite creamy variety.
What if I don’t have a food processor?
A sturdy blender can work in a pinch, though you might need to scrape down the sides more frequently to get a smooth texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Chickpea Cookie Dough Recipe is naturally gluten-free, so it’s safe for those avoiding gluten. Just be sure your protein powder and chocolate chips are gluten-free certified.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes approximately 16 small servings, perfect for sharing or saving for multiple snacks.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a way to enjoy cookie dough without the usual guilt or worries, this Chickpea Cookie Dough Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s quick to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and tastes like a decadent treat you’d never guess was actually healthy. I’m confident once you try this recipe, it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen for both snack time and dessert. So go ahead, treat yourself—you deserve it!
Print
Chickpea Cookie Dough Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Chickpea Cookie Dough recipe is a delicious and healthy treat that combines the creaminess of chickpeas with protein powder and vegan chocolate chips. Ready in just 10 minutes, this no-bake, vegan-friendly dough is perfect for snacking or dessert cravings with added protein and fiber.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- ¼ cup vanilla protein powder
- 2 tablespoons almond butter or cashew butter
- 1 tablespoon coconut sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅙ teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons vegan chocolate chips
Instructions
- Process chickpeas: Add the rinsed and drained chickpeas to a large food processor and pulse until they begin to smooth out. Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula to ensure even blending.
- Combine other ingredients: Add vanilla protein powder, almond or cashew butter, coconut sugar, vanilla extract, and sea salt into the food processor with the chickpeas. Process until the mixture forms a cohesive ball of dough.
- Add chocolate chips: Use a rubber spatula to gently separate the dough inside the processor bowl. Add the vegan chocolate chips and pulse 2-3 times just enough to evenly disperse the chips throughout the dough without breaking them up.
- Enjoy: Remove the cookie dough from the food processor and serve immediately for a fresh, protein-packed snack.
- Store leftovers: Place any leftover dough in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep fresh for 3-4 days.
Notes
- Use almond or cashew butter according to taste preference or allergies.
- If you prefer sweeter dough, increase coconut sugar slightly.
- Make sure to use vegan chocolate chips to keep the recipe fully vegan.
- Protein powder type can be plant-based or whey depending on dietary restrictions.
- Chickpeas provide a great source of fiber and protein making this a nutritious snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
