Are you ready to elevate your snack game with a deliciously nutritious treat? Say hello to Crunchy Almond Butter Protein Bars! Perfect for a quick breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a post-workout boost, these bars are packed with wholesome ingredients that will keep you energized throughout your day. With a delightful combination of creamy almond butter, hearty oats, and a touch of dark chocolate, these bars are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Get ready to indulge your taste buds while fueling your body with the goodness it deserves—let's dive into the recipe that will have you craving more!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup protein powder
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare your workspace by lining a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine almond butter and honey, stirring until smooth and fully integrated. Warm the mixture slightly in the microwave for 30 seconds if needed to improve blending.
- Add vanilla extract to the almond butter and honey mixture, mixing thoroughly to distribute the flavor evenly.
- Incorporate protein powder into the wet ingredients, stirring until a consistent texture is achieved with no dry powder pockets.
- Fold in rolled oats, ensuring they are completely coated by the almond butter mixture. The mixture should begin to look like a dense, sticky dough.
- Add chopped almonds and dark chocolate chips, gently mixing to distribute them throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan, using a spatula or clean hands to press the mixture firmly and evenly into all corners.
- Refrigerate the pan for 25-30 minutes to allow the bars to set and become firm.
- Remove from refrigerator and lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
- Cut into 12 equal rectangular bars using a sharp knife.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or wrap individually for easy grab-and-go snacks.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time during the week, consider making a double batch of these protein bars and storing them in the fridge. They make for a perfect grab-and-go snack!
- Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to swap out the dark chocolate chips for your favorite mix-ins, such as dried fruits, seeds, or different types of nuts, to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Check Consistency: If the mixture seems too dry, add a bit more almond butter or honey to achieve that sticky, dough-like consistency. Conversely, if it's too wet, a little extra protein powder or oats can help balance it out.
- Press Firmly: When transferring the mixture to the baking pan, make sure to press it down firmly. This ensures the bars hold their shape once cut and makes them easier to grab on the go.
- Storage Tips: Store your protein bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or wrap them individually for a convenient snack option anytime, anywhere.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
