Description
These homemade protein bars are a delicious and nutritious snack, perfect for a quick energy boost. Made with rolled oats, protein powder, and peanut butter, they are easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite flavors. With a hint of sweetness from honey and mini chocolate chips, these bars offer a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup protein powder (vanilla or chocolate)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (or almond butter)
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
Add-ins
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars later.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, protein powder, and salt, mixing thoroughly.
- Warm Wet Ingredients: In a microwave-safe bowl, warm the peanut butter and honey for 20-30 seconds until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract to combine.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the warmed wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring to combine. Gradually add milk, mixing until the mixture holds together and is not too dry or crumbly.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the mini chocolate chips into the mixture to evenly distribute.
- Press Mixture Into Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, pressing it down evenly and smoothing the top with a spatula for uniform thickness.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pan for 1 hour to firm up the bars.
- Slice and Store: After chilling, slice into 12 bars. Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to keep fresh.
Notes
- You can substitute almond butter for peanut butter if preferred or for allergy considerations.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan option.
- Adjust the milk quantity slightly to get the right consistency; the mixture should stick together without being too wet.
- These bars can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month if you want to keep them longer.
- Feel free to add nuts, dried fruit, or seeds for extra texture and nutrients.
