Description
Delicious and nutritious homemade peanut butter protein bars that are easy to make and perfect for a quick grab-and-go snack. These bars combine creamy peanut butter, oats, protein powder, and a touch of honey for natural sweetness, making them a great energy boost for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- ⅔ cup creamy peanut butter (natural unsweetened)
- 5 tablespoons honey
- 1½ tablespoons coconut oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste
Dry Ingredients
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons flax meal
- 2 scoops protein powder (Clean Simple Eats recommended)
- 1⅔ cups old fashioned oats
- ⅓ cup shredded coconut
- ⅓ cup mini chocolate chips
Topping
- Flaked salt for topping
- Extra mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Spray and/or line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper or non-stick spray and set aside to make removal easy.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium microwave-safe mixing bowl, add peanut butter, coconut oil, and honey. Microwave for 30 to 45 seconds until warm. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is completely combined and smooth.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Add vanilla bean paste, salt, cinnamon, flax meal, protein powder, and old fashioned oats to the wet mixture. Stir until all dry ingredients are incorporated evenly. Once the mixture is no longer warm, gently fold in shredded coconut and mini chocolate chips to preserve texture.
- Press and Chill: Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Press and smooth the mixture evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Sprinkle additional mini chocolate chips and flaked salt on top as garnish. Refrigerate or freeze for 10 to 15 minutes until firm.
- Cut and Store: Remove from the fridge and cut into squares or rectangles. Store the bars in ziplock bags or airtight containers in the refrigerator for convenient, healthy snacks anytime.
Notes
- Use natural unsweetened peanut butter for a less sweet and more wholesome flavor.
- Protein powder brands vary in sweetness and flavor so adjust mix-ins accordingly.
- Press bars firmly into the pan to help them hold together well.
- Store bars refrigerated to keep them fresh and maintain texture, or freeze for longer storage.
- For a nut-free option, substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter and use a seed-based protein powder.
