Preheat the oven to 350F (175C).
Read the note above to make sure you have the correct amount of water for the protein powder you are using.
Mix peanut butter, water (if using), and vanilla until combined.
⅓ cup natural peanut butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add salt (if using), cinnamon, and protein powder. Mix well. You may want to use your hands.
a pinch of salt, ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon, ¼ cup vanilla rice protein powder
If the batter is too sticky (sticks to your fingers), add a little more protein powder. If the batter is too dry (crumbly), first wait a few minutes for the protein to hydrate, and mix again. If it is still crumbly, and a teaspoon of water and mix again. Form the batter into 8-12 balls, and place onto parchment-lined cookie sheet.
Using a fork, flatten each ball with a criss-cross pattern.
For collagen or whey protein, bake for 10 minutes.For whey/casein blends, casein, or plant-based protein powders, bake 10-20 minutes - 10 min for softer cookies, 20 minutes for crispier cookies. Let cool completely on wire cooling rack. The cookies will set as they cool.
Enjoy! The 20-minute cookies can be stored at room temperature for several days. The 10-minute cookies should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.