Healthy Protein Bars
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats use gluten-free oats if needed
- 1 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
- 1/2 cup protein powder vanilla or chocolate, as preferred
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup for sweetness
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs optional
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts or seeds almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, or sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut optional
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk adjust for consistency
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional, for flavor
Instructions
Prepare a Pan:
- Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, protein powder, chopped nuts/seeds, and shredded coconut (if using). Stir well to distribute the ingredients evenly.
Add Wet Ingredients:
- Add peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Mix until everything is combined. If the mixture seems too dry, add almond milk one tablespoon at a time until the mixture holds together.
Incorporate Chocolate Chips:
- Fold in the dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs, if using.
Press into Pan:
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Use the back of a spatula or your hands (dampen them slightly to prevent sticking) to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan.
Chill and Set:
- Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until the mixture has firmed up.
Cut into Bars:
- Once set, lift the mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut it into 12 bars.
Store:
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.