Description

These Peanut Butter Protein Bars are a delicious and nutritious homemade snack perfect for a quick energy boost. Combining creamy peanut butter, oats, and protein powder, they offer a satisfying balance of taste and health, with optional chocolate chips and nuts for added texture and flavor. Easy to make and no-bake, they are ideal for meal prep and on-the-go snacking.

Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
¼ cup maple syrup or honey
2 tbsp coconut oil

Dry Ingredients

1 ½ cups rolled oats
½ cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)

Optional Add-ins

¼ cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
¼ cup chopped nuts or seeds (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving extra paper on the sides for easy removal of the bars once set.
Melt Wet Ingredients: In a saucepan over low heat, stir together the peanut butter, maple syrup, and coconut oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Remove it from heat to avoid overheating.
Mix Dry Ingredients: Add the rolled oats and protein powder to the melted mixture, stirring thoroughly until everything is well incorporated. Then, fold in the dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts/seeds if you are using them.
Press & Chill: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared pan, pressing it down firmly and evenly to create a compact layer. Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for 1 to 2 hours until the bars are firm.
Slice & Store: Once set, use the parchment paper to lift the mixture from the pan and slice into 10 to 12 bars. Store the bars in the fridge for up to one week or freeze for up to three months for longer storage.

Notes

You can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave nectar based on preference or dietary needs.
Using crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture, but creamy works best for binding.
Protein powder flavor can be vanilla, unflavored, or any preferred variety to suit taste.
For vegan option, ensure to use maple syrup and a plant-based protein powder.
If bars are too crumbly, try adding a little more coconut oil or peanut butter to improve binding.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Snack
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American