Description
These homemade protein bars are a perfect nutritious snack combining rolled oats, protein powder, and peanut butter for a satisfying energy boost. Sweetened naturally with honey or maple syrup and studded with mini chocolate chips, they are easy to prepare and refrigerated to set into delicious, chewy bars.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup protein powder (vanilla or chocolate)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
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)
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bars.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, protein powder, and salt, stirring well to distribute evenly.
- Warm wet ingredients: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the peanut butter and honey for 20-30 seconds until smooth and slightly warm, then stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly.
- Combine mixtures: Pour the warmed peanut butter mixture into the dry ingredients. Gradually add milk, mixing continuously until the mixture is sticky and holds together well.
- Add chocolate chips: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips to evenly distribute them throughout the mixture.
- Press mixture into pan: Transfer the mixture into the lined baking pan and press down firmly and evenly using a spatula, smoothing the top surface.
- Chill to set: Refrigerate the pan for 1 hour to allow the bars to firm up and hold their shape.
- Slice and store: After chilling, remove the mixture from the pan using the parchment paper, slice into 12 bars, and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
- Use natural peanut butter without added sugar or salt for a healthier option.
- For vegan bars, choose plant-based milk and maple syrup instead of honey.
- Protein powder choice can be adjusted to your preference, such as whey, plant-based, or collagen.
- If the mixture feels too dry, add a splash more milk; if too wet, add extra oats.
- For a nut-free version, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
