3-Ingredient High-Protein Crockpot Brownies – Insanely Easy & Delicious

May 9, 2025

You know those days when you’re craving something chocolatey but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? That’s exactly how I stumbled upon these magical 3-ingredient high-protein crockpot brownies. I was desperate for a quick, healthy dessert after a workout, and wow – this recipe saved me! Just peanut butter, bananas, and cocoa powder transform into the fudgiest, protein-packed treat with zero fuss. No oven, no fancy techniques, just dump and go. Trust me, your future self will thank you for bookmarking this one.

Why You’ll Love These 3-Ingredient High-Protein Crockpot Brownies

Let me tell you why these brownies are about to become your new go-to dessert:

  • Crazy easy: Just mix, dump, and let the crockpot do the work—no baking skills required!
  • Actually good for you: Packed with protein and natural sweetness, so you can indulge guilt-free.
  • No oven drama: Perfect for hot days or tiny kitchens (hello, apartment living!).
  • Minimal cleanup: One bowl, three ingredients, and you’re done. Yes, really.

I make these weekly—they’re that good. And trust me, even picky eaters won’t guess they’re healthy!

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Ingredients for 3-Ingredient High-Protein Crockpot Brownies

Grab these three simple ingredients—that’s it! I’ve tested this combo a dozen times, and here’s what works best:

  • 1 cup natural peanut butter (the drippy kind—no added oils or sugars!)
  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed (spotty ones are perfect—they’re sweeter)
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (go for the good stuff—it makes all the difference)

This magical trio makes 9 thick, fudgy brownies. Pro tip: Double the batch if you want leftovers (spoiler: you won’t have any).

Equipment Needed

Here’s all you’ll need – I promise it’s nothing fancy:

  • Crockpot (any size works, but mine’s a 4-quart)
  • Mixing bowl (I use my trusty Pyrex)
  • Spatula (to scrape every last bit of batter!)
  • Measuring cups

Optional but handy: parchment paper to line the crockpot – makes cleanup a breeze!

How to Make 3-Ingredient High-Protein Crockpot Brownies

Okay, let’s get to the fun part! These brownies couldn’t be simpler to make, but I’ve got a few tricks to ensure they come out perfect every time.

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Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

First, mash those bananas really well – I use a fork and go at it until they’re practically liquid. Then stir in the peanut butter and cocoa powder just until combined. Don’t overmix! A few lumps are totally fine. The batter will be thick and fudgy – exactly what we want.

Step 2: Cook in the Crockpot

Grease your crockpot well (trust me, you don’t want sticky brownies stuck to the sides!). Pour in the batter and smooth the top. Cook on LOW for 2-3 hours. Start checking at 2 hours – the edges should pull away slightly and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean (a few crumbs are good!).

Step 3: Cool and Slice

Here’s the hardest part – waiting! Let the brownies cool completely in the crockpot (about 30 minutes). They’ll firm up as they cool. For clean slices, run a knife under hot water, dry it, then cut. Repeat between cuts for perfect squares every time.

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Tips for Perfect 3-Ingredient High-Protein Crockpot Brownies

After making these dozens of times, here are my can’t-miss tips:

  • Check early! Crockpots vary – peek at 2 hours to prevent overbaking. The edges should look set but the center slightly soft.
  • Natural peanut butter is key – the oily kind blends better than stiff, processed varieties.
  • Want texture? Stir in chopped walnuts or dark chocolate chips before cooking – my favorite upgrade!
  • Too fudgy? Add 1 tbsp flour if you prefer cake-like brownies (but I love the gooeyness!).

Remember: They firm up as they cool, so resist cutting too soon!

Variations for 3-Ingredient High-Protein Crockpot Brownies

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, try these fun twists – I’ve tested them all!

  • Nut butter swap: Almond or cashew butter work beautifully if you’re out of peanut butter (just check for drippiness!).
  • Protein boost: Mix in 1 scoop of chocolate protein powder – it thickens the batter slightly, so add 1 tbsp water.
  • Extra sweetness: Drizzle in 1 tbsp honey if your bananas weren’t super ripe – but taste first!
  • Flavor bomb: Add ½ tsp instant coffee or vanilla extract to deepen the chocolate flavor.

My kids beg for the version with mini chocolate chips stirred in – who can blame them?

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Serving and Storing 3-Ingredient High-Protein Crockpot Brownies

These brownies are delicious plain, but here’s how I like to dress them up:

  • Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh berries – the tartness cuts the richness perfectly!
  • Storage tip: Keep in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days (if they last that long!).
  • Freezer-friendly: Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 3 months. Pop one in the microwave for 20 seconds when cravings hit!

Pro tip: They taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together – if you can wait that long!

Nutritional Information for 3-Ingredient High-Protein Crockpot Brownies

Here’s the scoop on what you’re eating (values are estimates per brownie):

  • 180 calories – perfect for a satisfying snack
  • 7g protein – thanks to that peanut butter power!
  • 15g carbs – mostly from the natural banana sugars
  • 3g fiber – keeps you full longer

Remember, these numbers can vary slightly based on your specific ingredients. But hey – it’s dessert that actually fuels your body. Win-win!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add protein powder?
Absolutely! Mix in 1 scoop of chocolate protein powder – just add 1 tbsp water since it thickens the batter. My favorite post-workout upgrade!

Can I bake these instead?
Yes! Pour into a greased 8×8 pan and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes. But the crockpot makes them extra fudgy – trust me on this.

Are these gluten-free?
They sure are! With just peanut butter, bananas, and cocoa, they’re naturally gluten-free. Always check labels if you’re using mix-ins though.

Try this recipe and share your results! Tag me with your brownie creations – I love seeing your twists on this simple favorite.

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3-Ingredient High-Protein Crockpot Brownies – Insanely Easy & Delicious

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Easy, high-protein brownies made with just three ingredients in a crockpot.

  • Author: Kitchen Hub
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2-3 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes - 3 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 9 brownies 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Crockpot
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup peanut butter
  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder

Instructions

  1. Mix peanut butter, mashed bananas, and cocoa powder in a bowl.
  2. Pour the mixture into a greased crockpot.
  3. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, checking for doneness.
  4. Let cool before slicing.

Notes

  • Use natural peanut butter for best results.
  • Check brownies occasionally to avoid overcooking.
  • Add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 brownie
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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