Homemade Protein Bars with Chocolate Drizzle Recipe
Introduction
These homemade protein bars are a simple, customizable snack perfect for fueling your day. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create delicious bars that suit your taste and dietary needs.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups peanut butter (or allergy-friendly substitute)
- 3/4 cup protein powder (about 90g)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (or honey)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 oz melted chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, protein powder, maple syrup, and salt. Stir thoroughly until the mixture forms a dough-like consistency.
- Step 2: Shape the mixture into bars using your hands, or press it evenly into a lined 8×8-inch pan for easier slicing later.
- Step 3: If using the optional chocolate, melt the chocolate chips until smooth. You can stir in about 2 teaspoons of oil for a smoother texture if desired.
- Step 4: Spread the melted chocolate over the bars in the pan or dip individual bars into the chocolate. Place the bars in the refrigerator to chill and set, about 1-2 hours.
- Step 5: Once chilled, cut the bars if made in a pan. Store and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Make sure to taste your protein powder before mixing, as flavors vary and affect the final taste.
- Try different protein powder flavors or allergy-friendly peanut butter alternatives to suit your preferences.
- For a keto-friendly option, substitute maple syrup with low-carb sweeteners and use a keto-compatible protein powder.
Storage
Store your protein bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months. If frozen, let bars thaw briefly at room temperature before eating. Reheat is not necessary.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other nut butters instead of peanut butter?
Yes, almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter work well as alternatives, especially for those with peanut allergies.
Do I need to add chocolate?
No, the chocolate coating is optional and can be skipped if you prefer a simpler bar or want to reduce sugar content.
PrintHomemade Protein Bars with Chocolate Drizzle Recipe
These homemade protein bars are a simple, customizable, and nutritious snack perfect for anyone looking to boost their protein intake. Made with peanut butter, protein powder, and natural sweeteners, they provide a balanced mix of healthy fats, protein, and carbohydrates. You can enjoy them plain or add a rich layer of melted chocolate for an indulgent touch. They’re easy to prepare with no baking required, making them a convenient and healthy option for on-the-go energy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 bars (based on 8×8 inch pan cut into 8 equal pieces) 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups peanut butter (or allergy-friendly substitute)
- 3/4 cup protein powder (approximately 90g, unsweetened recommended)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (or honey; can substitute with keto alternatives for a low-carb version)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Optional Topping
- 4 oz melted chocolate chips (optional)
- 2 teaspoons oil (to mix with melted chocolate for smoother sauce, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, protein powder, maple syrup, and salt. Stir thoroughly until a homogenous dough forms. Ensure the protein powder you use suits your taste since it significantly affects the flavor.
- Shape the bars: You can either shape the dough into bars using your hands, or spread and smooth the dough into a lined 8×8 inch pan for a uniform thickness.
- Add chocolate coating (optional): If using chocolate, melt the chocolate chips and optionally stir in 2 teaspoons of oil to create a smoother sauce. You can spread this melted chocolate evenly over the dough in the pan before chilling, or alternatively dip individual bars into the chocolate after cutting.
- Chill and set: Place the shaped bars or the pan in the refrigerator until the bars are firm and chilled, typically about 1-2 hours. This helps the bars set properly and the chocolate coating to solidify if applied.
- Cut and serve: If you set the dough in a pan, once chilled and firm, cut into individual bars. Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for optimal freshness.
Notes
- Use unsweetened protein powder to control sugar levels and adjust sweetness with maple syrup or honey.
- Substitute peanut butter with allergy-friendly options like almond butter or sunflower seed butter if needed.
- Adding oil to melted chocolate helps create a more fluid coating but is optional.
- Refrigerate bars properly to maintain their shape and texture.
- Experiment with flavors by mixing in nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for variation.
Keywords: protein bars, homemade protein bars, no bake protein bars, healthy snacks, peanut butter bars, high protein snacks
