Peanut Butter Protein Bars ⋆ 100 Days of Real Food

Are you looking for a tasty and healthy snack to fuel your day? Look no further than these homemade peanut butter protein bars! Packed with the goodness of peanut butter and high in protein, these bars are not only delicious but also an easy way to boost your energy levels. Kids love them too!

For more healthy breakfast options, check out these High Protein Breakfast Ideas!

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Why You'll Love This Recipe

These peanut butter protein bars are quick and easy to make.
They are no bake.
This recipe requires only a handful of pantry staple ingredients.
They are great for busy days as a grab-and-go snack. Try these Homemade Nutter Butters too!
These bars each contain 10 grams of protein.
Great for a post workout snack!
Take these on the road, on the go, and trips.
They are nutritious and filling. So are these Peanut Butter Eggs!
These bars are packed with healthy fats, fiber, and nutrients. They keep you full.
This recipe is gluten-free, dairy-free, and much less processed than store-bought bars.
Check out these Peanut Butter Oat Bars for another fun snack recipe!

Ingredients & Substitutes

These are the ingredients and substitutes for peanut butter protein bars. Scroll down to the recipe card below for the entire recipe.

Use all-natural creamy peanut butter made from only peanuts and salt. Almond butter and cashew butter work well too. If you are nut-free, use sunflower butter.

Pure maple syrup adds sweetness. Replace with honey if needed.

Melted coconut oil adds healthy baking fat.

Vanilla protein powder adds the protein. Look for brands with no added sugar.

Rolled oats are much better than quick oats or instant oats in this recipe.

For the coating, use coconut oil and dark chocolate chips.

Top with sea salt if desired.

Ingredients for peanut butter protein bars.

Taste & Texture

Peanut butter protein bars offer a delightful combination of creamy and crunchy textures.

The natural creaminess of peanut butter combined with the chewiness of oats and the crunch of nuts or seeds creates a satisfying texture.

The flavor is rich and nutty, with a hint of sweetness.

How to Make

Step 1

First, line a standard bread pan with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, protein powder, and oats. Stir until a thick mixture forms.

Step 3

Press this down into the lined pan.

Step 4

Then, make the chocolate layer. Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil until smooth and creamy. Pour this on top of the peanut butter layer. Sprinkle with sea salt.

Step 5

Chill in the fridge for 20 minutes, until the chocolate coating has completely hardened.

Step 6

Finally, slice into bars and enjoy!

Expert Tips for Success

To help you make the perfect peanut butter protein bars, here are some expert tips and tricks.

Choose the right peanut butter. Use natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils. It provides a richer flavor and better texture.

Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil slowly. Do not burn.

Chill until the chocolate coating has hardened.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

While peanut butter alone is delicious, you can take your protein bars to the next level with flavor variations and add-ins. Here are some ideas to inspire you.

Chocolate Peanut Butter: Add cocoa powder or chocolate protein powder to the mixture.

Almond Joy: Mix in shredded coconut and chopped almonds, and sprinkle with mini chocolate chips.

Banana Nut: Mash a ripe banana into the mixture and add chopped walnuts or pecans for a banana bread-inspired flavor. Store in the fridge.

Peanut Butter and Jelly: Stir in dried cranberries or raspberries for a nostalgic PB&J twist.

How to Serve & Store

Peanut butter protein bars can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

They make a great post-workout snack, mid-afternoon pick-me-up, or even a healthy dessert.

Once you've made a batch, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

If you plan to keep them for longer, individually wrap them in plastic wrap or store them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different nut butter instead of peanut butter?

Absolutely! You can substitute peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or any other nut butter of your choice.

Are these bars suitable for vegans?

Yes, simply use maple syrup instead of honey, and ensure your protein powder is vegan-friendly.

Can I customize the sweetness level?

Of course! You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey, maple syrup, or your preferred sweetener.

Equipment Needed

Pre-Cut Parchment Paper Sheets: Use parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Pyrex Glass Measuring Cups: Measure out the ingredients with these cups.

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