Cross my heart, I am more hungry as a nursing mom than when I’m pregnant. It’s like my body NEEDS fuel to produce breast milk and nourish my baby. And, since, I finally have the belly space to eat a full meal, I do … often. Three meals a day, plus multiple snacks. And that’s where these protein lactation cookie bites come in. They’re the perfect boost of energy and full of galactagogue ingredients. Bring. It. On. Plus, how can you say no to a cookie that is actually good for you?!?
Why is protein important postpartum?
When it comes to postpartum health and recovery protein is a huge player. You need protein to grow and repair cells inside and out. So, even if you feel drawn to carbs alone, find a way to add in protein – protein powder, peanut butter, etc. – your body needs protein more.
What foods support lactation?
If you are new to the breastfeeding world, galactagogues is probably a new word to you. In essence, galactagogues are foods that support lactation. As you assess your postpartum diet, be aware of foods that will help you to make more milk and incorporate them into your diet as much as possible. Here are some favorite galactagogues that can easily be incorporated into your meal plan … you’ll find quite a few in the recipe for Protein Lactation Cookie Bites too!
- Oatmeal
- Dark, leafy greens
- Yams, beets, carrots, and fennel
- Chickpeas + lentils
- Brewer’s yeast
- Nuts + seeds, especially cashews, walnuts, macadamia nuts, sesame seeds, and pumpkin seeds
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups oatmeal
- 1/4 cup vanilla protein powder
- 2 tablespoons brewer’s yeast
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- Dash of sea salt
- 7 dates, pitted
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/8 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Directions
In a food processor blend oatmeal into a flour consistency. Add protein powder, brewer’s yeast, brown sugar, salt and mix well. Transfer to a separate bowl.
In the food processor blend dates, peanut butter, vanilla, egg, honey, and syrup.
With a spatula combine wet ingredients and dry. Gently stir add chocolate chips. Form into small cookies – about 2 tablespoons each. Press into discs and place on a parchment paper lined cookie sheet.
Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. Serve warm, chilled, or even frozen – they are delicious every way!
Tips + Tricks
Store your protein lactation cookie bites in an air tight container for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three weeks. When eating, drink at least 16 ounces of water – there is no better boost to lactation than the mix of quality ingredients and consistent hydration.
Protein Lactation Cookie Bites
Equipment
- Food processor
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups oatmeal
- 1/4 cup vanilla protein powder
- 2 tbsp brewer's yeast
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 7 dates pitted
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/8 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- In a food processor blend oatmeal into a flour consistency. Add protein powder, brewer's yeast, brown sugar, salt and mix well. Transfer to a separate bowl.
- In the food processor blend dates, peanut butter, vanilla, egg, honey, and syrup.
- With a spatula combine wet ingredients and dry. Gently stir add chocolate chips. Form into small cookies – about 2 tablespoons each. Press into discs and place on a parchment paper lined cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. Serve warm, chilled, or even frozen – they are delicious every way!