Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Protein-packed: Great for snacks, post-workout, or dessert.
Naturally sweetened: Made with maple syrup and no refined sugar.
Adorably festive: Each cookie “hugs” an almond for visual charm and added crunch.
Wholesome ingredients: Made with almond flour, nut butter, and clean protein.
Kid-friendly: Fun to make and eat, great for lunchboxes or after-school treats.
Gluten-free: Made without wheat or gluten-containing flours.
No chill time: Quick to prepare and bake.
Customizable: Swap nuts, add spices, or drizzle with chocolate.
Perfect for gifting: Homemade cookies with a cozy, handcrafted look.
Freezer-friendly: Great to keep on hand for healthy treats anytime.

Ingredients

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

Almond flour
Vanilla or unflavored protein powder
Baking soda
Salt
Almond butter (or other nut/seed butter)
Maple syrup
Coconut oil, melted
Vanilla extract
Whole almonds (for the “bear hugs”)
Optional: cinnamon, chocolate chips, or a maple glaze

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together almond flour, protein powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, mix almond butter, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine wet and dry ingredients and stir until a soft dough forms.
Scoop out 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of dough and roll into balls. Flatten slightly into discs.
Place a whole almond in the center of each cookie and gently fold the dough to “hug” the almond—pinch or press the dough edges up around it slightly.
Arrange cookies on the prepared sheet about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, until golden around the edges.
Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 cookies
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Vegan version: Use plant-based protein and ensure all ingredients are dairy-free.
Nut-free: Use sunflower seed butter and pumpkin seeds in place of almonds.
Spiced version: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the dough.
Chocolate twist: Add dark chocolate chips or drizzle cooled cookies with melted chocolate.
Crunchy finish: Sprinkle with chopped nuts or a pinch of sea salt before baking.
Glazed topping: Whisk powdered sugar with maple syrup and drizzle over cooled cookies.
Holiday style: Add festive spices like ginger and clove or press dried cranberries into the dough.
Mini cookies: Use less dough per cookie for bite-sized versions.
Extra protein: Add collagen peptides or increase protein powder slightly.
Oatmeal blend: Add a small amount of rolled oats for texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to 7 days for longer freshness.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Gently warm in the microwave for 10 seconds if desired.

FAQs

Why are they called “Bear Hug” cookies?

Because each cookie wraps its doughy arms around an almond, mimicking a little bear hug.

Can I skip the protein powder?

Yes, but reduce the liquid slightly or add more almond flour to maintain consistency.

What type of protein powder works best?

Vanilla or unflavored plant-based protein powders work great and keep the cookies soft.

Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?

Yes, though the flavor will be different. Use the same amount as a 1:1 swap.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Nope—this dough is ready to bake right after mixing.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. These freeze well and are great for gifting or bulk baking.

Can I shape these into other designs?

Yes, you can shape them into hearts or rounds and press nuts or toppings into them.

Are these good for kids?

Yes! They’re fun to make, naturally sweetened, and packed with protein.

Do they taste strongly of almond?

They have a pleasant almond flavor but it’s balanced by vanilla and maple.

Can I make them crunchy instead of soft?

Bake a few minutes longer for a firmer, crunchier texture.

Conclusion

Maple Almond Bear Hug Protein Cookies are the perfect blend of cozy flavor, wholesome ingredients, and adorable presentation. Whether you’re looking for a healthy treat, a protein-boosted snack, or a fun cookie to share, these little “hugs” are a comforting, feel-good choice you’ll want to make again and again.