I have a huge sweet tooth, but like everyone else, I’m looking to cut back on sugary desserts in the New Year. However, when I just can’t fight the cravings, a “brownie in a mug” saves the day! These are great because they make just enough fluffy, chocolate-y brownie to satisfy one person- and the only dishes you have to do afterwards are the mug you used and spoon you ate with! I tweaked a recipe that originally came from Sweet Society that I found on pinterest. I swapped out half of the butter and half of the flour to cut fat and add protein- the result was super yummy and nearly guilt free! Here’s how I made homemade, quick, easy, no-dishes, “healthy” brownies for a cozy night in!
  
  Original Recipe from Sweet Society– [my edits in italics:]

• 2 tbsp. unsalted butter- melted [I did 1 tbsp. butter, 1 tbsp. apple sauce]
• 2 tbsp. granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp. light brown sugar
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• pinch of salt
• 1 egg yolk
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour [I did 1/8 cup flour, 1/8 cup protein powder]
• 1 tbsp. cocoa powder
• semi sweet chocolate chips

Directions:

• Melt the butter in the microwave
• Add both kinds of sugar, vanilla, and salt to the butter. Mix well.
• Add the egg yolk- best to scramble it before adding it in. Mix well.
• Add cocoa powder, flour, and protein powder. Make sure there are no lumps.
• Add chocolate chips on top
• Microwave for 30-45 seconds, or until the top is no longer wet.

You could easily do all protein powder instead of flour for an extra amount of protein- I didn’t notice the protein powder at all in mine. This would be great with cinnamon or peppermint on top, too!