Homemade 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 8x8 inch pan cut into 8 equal pieces) 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
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
