Chocolate Protein Brownies

I love these chocolate protein bars from Jamie Eason.  They only take a few minutes to make and they are a great option when you are craving that chocolate treat or snack.  Of course they aren't as moist or ooey-gooey as the brownies in a box, but they are a much healthier option and satisfy that craving just as good as the boxed-brownies.    

Notes:  For the ground oatmeal I use the fast cooking oats and blend two cups in my Vitamix.  It turns out great.  I've also made this recipe using chocolate whey protein powder and it doesn't turn out as good -  a little more granulated.  Is that a word?  So I recommend sticking to the vanilla, but if chocolate is al you have you can still use it.

Chocolate Protein Brownies
Yield: 16 brownies, 8 servings (2 brownies per serving)

Ingredients
2 cups ground oatmeal
2 scoops vanilla whey protein powder
3 tablespoons baking cocoa
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 egg whites
1/2 cup Splenda or Truiva (or 6 teaspoons Stevia)
8 oz. berry-flavored baby food  (Gerber Apple Blueberry is excellent)
4 oz. water  (One of the plastic containers of baby food)

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.  Grease an 8x8 inch baking dish and set aside.

Whisk dry ingredients (ground oatmeal, protein powder, baking cocoa, baking soda, and salt) together in a large bowl.

In a smaller bowl add the egg whites and Splenda.  Whisk together until it becomes a little frothy.  Add the baby food and the water and whisk until all is combined.  The baby food takes place of any oil you might use and the water helps keep these little brownies moist.

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.  Pour into the prepared 8x8 inch pan and cook for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.  Allow to cool before cutting into 16 equal squares.


Nutrition Facts (per serving):
Total Fat  1.4 g
Total Carb  12 g
Protein  10 g


Recipe Source: Bodybuilding.com