Description
These homemade protein bars are a perfect blend of nutritious rolled oats, protein powder, and natural sweeteners, combined with peanut butter and mini chocolate chips for a delicious and energizing snack. Quick to prepare with no baking required, they’re ideal for post-workout fuel or a healthy treat on the go.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup protein powder (vanilla or chocolate)
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (or almond butter)
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends over the edges for easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, protein powder, and salt. Stir well to evenly distribute all components.
- Warm Wet Ingredients: In a microwave-safe bowl, gently warm the peanut butter and honey for 20 to 30 seconds until smooth and easily combined. Stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the warmed peanut butter mixture into the dry ingredients bowl. Gradually add milk, stirring as you go, until the dough holds together and is moldable but not too wet.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture without melting them.
- Press Into Pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Press it down firmly and evenly using a spatula to create a smooth, compact surface.
- Chill: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour to allow the bars to set and firm up.
- Slice and Store: After chilling, lift the mixture out using the parchment paper edges and cut into 12 bars. Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use almond butter instead of peanut butter for a different flavor or to avoid peanuts.
- Choose your preferred protein powder flavor to customize taste—vanilla complements chocolate chips well.
- Maple syrup is a great vegan alternative to honey.
- If the mixture feels too dry, add milk a teaspoon at a time to reach the right consistency.
- For a nut-free version, substitute nut butter with sunflower seed butter.
- To add crunch, consider folding in chopped nuts or seeds along with the chocolate chips.
