Protein Bars
Protein bars are a popular snack for those looking to boost their protein intake or stay energized throughout the day. They are convenient, portable, and can be enjoyed anytime, whether as a post-workout snack or a quick breakfast. Making your own protein bars at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring they are healthy and delicious.
Why Make This Recipe
Making protein bars from scratch is a great way to customize your snacks according to your taste and dietary needs. You can adjust the sweetness, incorporate your favorite flavors, and choose the protein source that works best for you. Plus, homemade protein bars can be more cost-effective than store-bought options, which are often high in added sugars and preservatives.
How to Make Protein Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (100 g) protein powder (see notes*)
- ⅓ cup (30 g) oat flour (or almond flour)
- ⅓ cup (80 g) peanut butter (or almond butter)
- ¼ cup (60 g) Greek yogurt (or nondairy yogurt)
- 3 tbsp (60 g) maple syrup (or honey, more for sweetener bars)
- ⅓ tsp salt (skip if using salted peanut butter)
- 3 tbsp chocolate chips (optional)
Directions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the protein powder with the oat flour, peanut butter, Greek yogurt, and maple syrup. If using unsalted peanut butter, add a pinch of salt.
- Using a spatula or a fork, stir all ingredients until you have a smooth dough. If the dough is crumbly, add a little more peanut butter. If it’s too sticky, add more oat flour. This will depend on the type of protein powder you use.
- Line a 6 x 6 inch (15 x 15 cm) pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly with oil to prevent sticking. Transfer the dough to the prepared pan and smooth it out. Refrigerate for at least one hour.
- Once the dough has set, slice it into bars. Store the bars in the fridge for a maximum of four days.
How to Serve Protein Bars
Protein bars can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a fruit or a glass of milk for a more balanced snack. They make great pre-workout fuel or a quick breakfast option when you’re on the go.
How to Store Protein Bars
Keep your protein bars in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to four days. You can also wrap them individually in plastic wrap for an easy snack on the run.
Tips to Make Protein Bars
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or maple syrup to taste.
- Experiment with different nut butters to find your favorite flavor.
- Add nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for extra texture and nutrition.
- For a chocolatey taste, consider adding cocoa powder instead of chocolate chips.
Variations
Try using different types of protein powder, such as whey, soy, or pea protein, to cater to your dietary preferences. You can also switch up the nut butters and use almond or cashew butter for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of flour?
A: Yes, you can use almond flour, coconut flour, or even flour alternatives based on your preferences and dietary needs.
Q: How long do these bars last?
A: The protein bars can last up to four days when stored in the fridge.
Q: Can I freeze protein bars?
A: Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw them in the fridge before enjoying.
