Description
These No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars are a delicious and healthy snack option that’s easy to prepare without any cooking. Combining creamy peanut butter, chocolate protein powder, and oats, these bars are packed with flavor and protein, perfect for on-the-go energy or post-workout fuel. They require minimal ingredients and refrigeration to set, making them an ideal no-bake treat for a quick, satisfying bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup natural peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk (dairy or non-dairy, as needed to bind)
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chocolate protein powder
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the rolled oats, chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder, and salt to the wet mixture. Mix thoroughly until fully combined.
- Adjust Consistency: If the mixture feels too dry or crumbly, add the milk one tablespoon at a time, mixing after each addition until the mixture holds together well.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, if using, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
- Press into Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Press the mixture firmly into the dish using the back of a spoon or your hands to create an even, compact layer.
- Refrigerate to Set: Refrigerate the pan for at least 1 hour until the bars are firm and set.
- Cut and Store: Once set, remove from the fridge, cut into 12 bars, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep fresh.
Notes
- For a vegan version, use maple syrup and plant-based protein powder instead of honey and regular protein powder.
- Add chopped nuts or seeds for extra texture and nutritional benefits.
- Mini chocolate chips are optional but add a nice touch of sweetness and texture.
- If the bars are too sticky after refrigeration, you can briefly freeze them for easier handling.
