These wholesome protein bars pack a powerful nutritional punch in just 184 calories. Made with a perfect balance of protein (10g) and healthy fats, they’re an ideal post-workout snack or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ready in just 10 minutes of prep time plus an hour of chilling, these bars offer a convenient way to fuel your busy lifestyle. With 3g of fiber and only 9g of sugar, they provide sustained energy without the crash that comes from store-bought alternatives.
Wholesome Protein Bar Ingredients
- Rolled Oats: 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned, provides hearty base
- Nut Butter: 3/4 cup peanut butter or alternative, adds creaminess
- Banana: 1 medium, mashed for natural sweetness
- Natural Sweetener: 1/3 cup honey, agave, or maple syrup
- Flax Seed: 1/2 cup ground, boosts nutrition
- Protein Powder: 1 cup of your favorite variety
- Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons for flavor enhancement
- Mix-ins: 3/4 cup of dried fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips
- Salt: Just a pinch to balance flavors
Simple Assembly Steps
- Mix Base: Combine all ingredients until well incorporated and soft
- Texture Check: Add liquid if mixture appears too dry or crumbly
- Shape: Press mixture firmly into an 8×8 inch pan for best results
- Chill: Refrigerate for minimum 1 hour until firm
- Serve: Cut into bars and enjoy your homemade protein treat
Mix-Ins & Substitutions
These protein bars are super flexible! Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have in your pantry. Instead of peanut butter, try almond or cashew butter for different flavors. Not a banana fan? Use 1/2 cup of applesauce instead.
For the protein powder, any type works well – vanilla, chocolate, or unflavored. My favorite mix-ins are dark chocolate chips and dried cranberries, but you can get creative with chopped nuts, seeds, or even cacao nibs!
Storage Tips
Keep your protein bars fresh and tasty by storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay good for up to 2 weeks! Want to make a bigger batch? These bars freeze beautifully – just wrap them individually in wax paper and pop them in a freezer bag.
They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy them.
Serving Suggestions
These protein bars make a perfect grab-and-go breakfast or post-workout snack. Try crumbling one over your morning yogurt for added crunch and protein. Pack them in your gym bag or lunchbox – they hold up well at room temperature for a few hours.
For a sweet treat, warm your bar in the microwave for 10-15 seconds and enjoy it with a cold glass of milk or your favorite coffee!
Protein Bars
Equipment
- 8×8 inch pan
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3/4 cup peanut butter or favorite nut butter or sunflower butter
- 1 banana mashed
- 1/3 cup honey agave or real maple syrup
- 1 pinch salt
- 1/2 cup ground flax seed
- 1 cup protein powder
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup mix-ins chopped dates, dried fruit, mini chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or nuts
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients until well combined. Mixture should be fairly soft and not dry or crumbly. Add a splash of water or milk, or an extra drizzle of honey, if needed.
- Press very firmly into an 8×8 inch pan.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before cutting into bars.
- Store bars in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
