Tired of expensive store-bought protein bars that taste like cardboard? Get ready to revolutionize your snacking with these incredibly delicious, easy-to-make homemade chocolate protein bars! Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, busy professional, or health-conscious foodie, these bars are about to become your new secret weapon for quick nutrition and irresistible flavor. In just 40 minutes, you'll create a batch of protein-packed treats that will satisfy your chocolate cravings while fueling your body with wholesome ingredients.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 10 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup oats
- 1/2 cup protein powder
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare your workspace by lining an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: oats, protein powder, and cocoa powder. Whisk thoroughly to eliminate any potential clumps and ensure even distribution.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, warm the almond butter and honey together for 30-45 seconds. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and well-integrated.
- Pour the warm almond butter and honey mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix with a spatula or wooden spoon until a consistent, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Fold in the dark chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan, pressing firmly and evenly with the back of a spatula to create a compact layer.
- Refrigerate the pan for 30 minutes to allow the bars to set and become firm.
- Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and place on a cutting board.
- Cut into 10 equal rectangular bars using a sharp knife.
- Store the protein bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Tips
- Use high-quality protein powder for the best taste and texture. Whey or plant-based protein powders work great.
- Make sure your almond butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure compact, well-formed bars.
- For variations, try adding chopped nuts or switching to milk chocolate chips.
- If the mixture seems too dry, add a little extra honey or almond butter.
- Allow sufficient chilling time to help the bars set properly and become easier to cut.
- For meal prep, these bars can be frozen for up to 2 months in an airtight container.
- Experiment with different cocoa powders to find your preferred chocolate intensity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 5mg
