These delicious Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars are a healthy match made in heaven with 15g protein per bar!
If you love wholesome, grab-and-go options, try my Healthy Granola Bars, Chocolate Peanut Butter Energy Balls, or Dark Chocolate Cherry Energy Bites.
In This Post You'll Find:
If you're active and on the go, protein bars can be your best friend. But when they contain additives and unhealthy fillers, things get complicated.
I'm not a fan of hidden sugars (see my post on 6 Easy Ways to Spot Hidden Sugars in Foods), and I try to avoid weird preservatives whenever possible. You can find some quality protein bars available (read my post on the 7 Best Protein Bars), but I think it's enjoyable to make my own.
Enter: These Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars!
These contain a powerhouse protein combination: peanut butter, Protein Powder, chia seeds, and oatmeal. They're just so good, and no baking is required!
Ingredients For Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars
Rolled Oats: The base of these protein bars, adding texture, fiber, and a hearty bite. If gluten-free, look for messaging on the label they are made in a GF environment. I recommend using rolled (old-fashioned) oats, so they hold their texture.
Peanut Butter: Acts as a binder while adding rich, nutty flavor and healthy fats. It also gives the bars a creamy consistency. You can swap for a seed butter if allergic to peanuts. Look for a brand that only contains nuts and maybe some salt. You can also make your own Honey Roasted Peanut Butter.
Protein Powder: Boosts the protein content, making these bars a great post-workout snack. I recommend choosing a protein powder that tastes good on its own, so it doesn't make the bars taste bad. My favorite is Cleanish Plant-Based Protein.
Chocolate Sea Salt Plant-Based Protein Powder
$49.99
The best-tasting clean plant-based protein possible. Tastes great enough just mixed with water, and perfect in smoothies. Enjoy 20 grams of high-quality protein that won’t hurt your tummy. Subscriptions come with 15% off forever, and you can cancel, pause or… read more
Dark Cocoa Powder: Adds deep chocolate flavor without the extra sugar. Look for options that have no added sugars -- and as high as 72% or higher cacao.
Honey: If you're looking for other natural sweetener options, check out my guide on Healthy Sugar Substitutes. My preference is raw honey for these protein bars.
Step By Step Instructions
Step 1: Measure out all ingredients and line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Combine rolled oats, protein powder, dark cocoa powder, cinnamon, and chia seeds. Stir to distribute evenly.
Step 3: Pour in peanut butter, honey, almond milk, and melted coconut oil. Mix until everything is well combined, forming a thick, sticky dough.
Step 4: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, pressing it down firmly into an even layer using a spatula.
Step 5: Melt chocolate chips with a little coconut oil.
Step 6: Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top, and let cool.
FAQs
Why Are My Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars So Wet?
You've added too much liquid to your mixture. Add additional rolled oats or protein powder to absorb some of the extra moisture.
Why Are My Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars So Dry?
Your recipe doesn't have enough liquid. You can add more liquid in the form of milk, peanut butter, melted coconut oil, honey or maple syrup.
How To Store Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars
You can store these dairy-free protein bars at room temperature for up to a week using an airtight container. They freeze well if you make a big batch and can't eat them all at once. Stored in an airtight freezer bag, they'll be good for up to 3 months. Check out my Ultimate Guide To Meal Prep Containers for the best storage options.
