Say goodbye to store-bought snacks and hello to Protein Bars—homemade Healthy Snack Bars that are quick, customizable, and packed with protein! Ready in just 15 minutes with no baking required, these bars combine wholesome ingredients like peanut butter and maple syrup for a delicious, guilt-free treat. Perfect for post-workout fuel, meal prep, or on-the-go snacking, Protein Bars are your new go-to. Let’s make these nutritious, budget-friendly bars!
Ingredients for Protein Bars
Here’s what you’ll need for Protein Bars (makes 12 bars):
For the Base Recipe:
- ¾ cup (90g) unsweetened protein powder (pea, brown rice, or whey)
- ½ cup (120g) creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup (60ml) pure maple syrup
- ¼ cup (60ml) water
- ¼ tsp (1g) salt (optional, for flavor)
Equipment
- Medium mixing bowl
- Spatula or spoon
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredient Tips
- Protein Powder: Use unsweetened pea or brown rice protein for Healthy Snack Bars; avoid sweetened powders to control sugar.
- Peanut Butter: Choose natural, creamy peanut butter for smooth texture in Energy Bars.
- Maple Syrup: Adds natural sweetness; swap with honey if preferred.
- Water: Adjust slightly for desired consistency; add slowly.
- Allergies: Use sunflower seed butter for nut-free bars.
Directions
Mix the Base
In a medium bowl, I combine ¾ cup protein powder, ½ cup peanut butter, ¼ cup maple syrup, ¼ cup water, and ¼ tsp salt (if using). I stir until a thick dough forms, adding water 1 tsp at a time if too dry for Healthy Snack Bars.
Shape the Bars
I line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. I press the dough evenly into the pan using a spatula for Energy Bars.
Chill and Cut
I refrigerate the pan for 30 minutes to firm up. I remove the dough, cut into 12 equal bars (about 40g each), and wrap individually in parchment for storage.
Serve
I enjoy the Protein Bars chilled or at room temperature, perfect for a quick snack.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 12 bars (40g each)
- Calories: ~150 kcal per bar
- Macros per Bar: 10g carbs, 12g protein, 8g fat, 1g fiber
Variations
- Chocolate: Replace 2 tbsp protein powder with cocoa powder and add ¼ cup mini chocolate chips for a rich Healthy Snack Bar.
- Peanut Butter Cup: Use peanut butter and dip in ½ cup melted dark chocolate, inspired by Food and Tips’ Caramel Cheesecake Cookies.
- Banana Bread: Swap maple syrup for ¼ cup mashed banana and add ¼ tsp cinnamon.
- Cookie Dough: Add ¼ tsp vanilla extract and ¼ cup mini chocolate chips for a cookie-like vibe.
- Nut-Free: Use ½ cup oat flour instead of protein powder and sunflower seed butter for 7g protein per bar.
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with Food and Tips’ Vanilla Raspberry Iced Latte for a post-workout treat.
- Serve with Food and Tips’ Cucumber Blueberry Feta Salad for a balanced snack.
- Enjoy with Food and Tips’ Coconut Cooler for a refreshing break.
Storage
I store Protein Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months. I wrap each bar in parchment to prevent sticking and keep them fresh for grab-and-go snacking.
Serving Tips
- Presentation: Stack Protein Bars on a plate for a vibrant Healthy Snack Bar display.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped nuts or coconut flakes for extra flair.
- Pairing: Enjoy with a smoothie, coffee, or Food and Tips’ Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken for a protein-packed meal.
- Portion Size: 1 bar for a snack; 2 for a meal replacement.
- Occasions: Ideal for workouts, travel, or quick breakfasts.
FAQs
Can I use flavored protein powder for Energy Bars?
Yes, but unsweetened powder works best to avoid overly sweet Energy Bars.
How do I make nut-free Energy Bars?
Use sunflower seed butter and oat flour instead of protein powder for Healthy Snack Bars.
Can I skip protein powder in Energy Bars?
Yes, use 1 cup oat flour and ⅓ cup maple syrup for Energy Bars with 7g protein per bar.
Are Energy Bars keto-friendly?
Swap maple syrup for erythritol to make keto-friendly Energy Bars.
How do I avoid a chalky texture in Energy Bars?
Use high-quality, unsweetened protein powder and mix well for smooth Energy Bars.
More High-Protein Meals You’ll Love
- High Protein Chicken Orzo: A Creamy, Healthy One-Pan Delight
- Protein Bagels
- Easy Baked Salmon Recipe: A Flavorful, Healthy Dinner
Conclusion
Protein Bars are a versatile, nutritious treat that’s perfect for busy days or post-workout fuel. These Healthy Snack Bars are easy to customize and budget-friendly. Make Protein Bars, experiment with flavors, and enjoy the wholesome goodness!
Protein
Ingredients
For the Base Recipe:
- ¾ cup 90g unsweetened protein powder (pea, brown rice, or whey)
- ½ cup 120g creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup 60ml pure maple syrup
- ¼ cup 60ml water
- ¼ tsp 1g salt (optional, for flavor)
Instructions
Mix the Base
- In a medium bowl, I blend ¾ cup protein powder, ½ cup peanut butter, ¼ cup maple syrup, ¼ cup water, and ¼ tsp salt (if using). I stir until a thick dough forms, adding water 1 tsp at a time if too dry for Healthy Snack Bars and Protein Bars.
Shape the Bars
- I line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and press the dough evenly into it using a spatula to form Protein Bars.
Chill and Cut
- I chill the pan in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to set. I then lift the dough out, cut it into 12 equal bars (about 40g each), and wrap each in parchment for Protein Bars.
Serve
- I enjoy Protein Bars chilled or at room temperature, perfect for a quick, satisfying snack.
Notes
- Presentation: Display Protein Bars stacked on a plate for vibrant Healthy Snack Bars.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped nuts or coconut flakes for extra flair on Protein Bars.
- Pairing: Enjoy with a smoothie, coffee, or Food and Tips’ Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken for a protein-packed meal.
- Portion Size: 1 bar for a snack; 2 for a meal replacement.
- Occasions: Perfect for workouts, travel, or quick breakfasts with Protein Bars.
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