Never let your snack time be boring again with these homemade gluten-free protein bars. Packed with nutrients and flavors, they’re the perfect pick-me-up for any time of the day.
Why This Recipe Works
- These bars are packed with high-quality protein to keep you full and energized.
- Gluten-free ingredients make them accessible to everyone, including those with dietary restrictions.
- Easy to customize with your favorite nuts, seeds, or sweeteners.
- No baking required, making them a quick and hassle-free snack option.
- Perfect for meal prep, as they can be stored for up to a week.
Ingredients
- 2 cups gluten-free rolled oats
- 1 cup almond butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Equipment Needed
- 8×8 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Line your 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal. This step ensures your bars won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, chia seeds, and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is evenly distributed. This mixture forms the base of your protein bars.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
To the dry ingredients, add the almond butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Use a spatula to mix until the mixture is sticky and holds together. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 4: Press Into the Pan
Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan. Use the spatula or your hands to press it down firmly and evenly. This step is crucial for ensuring your bars hold together once cut.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Sprinkle the dark chocolate chips over the top and gently press them into the mixture. Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set. This chilling time is essential for the bars to firm up.
Step 6: Cut and Serve
Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into 12 equal bars. Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra protein boost, consider adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the mix. If you’re not a fan of almond butter, peanut butter or sunflower seed butter are great alternatives. To make these bars vegan, substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. For a crunchier texture, toast the oats before mixing them in. And remember, the firmer you press the mixture into the pan, the better the bars will hold together.
Recipe Variations
- Swap out the dark chocolate chips for white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a different flavor profile.
- Add dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for a chewy texture and natural sweetness.
- Incorporate nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and healthy fats.
- Use cocoa powder in place of some of the protein powder for a chocolatey version.
- Experiment with different extracts, such as almond or coconut, to change up the flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of nut butter?
Absolutely! While almond butter is used in this recipe, feel free to substitute it with peanut butter, cashew butter, or any other nut or seed butter you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly depending on what you choose.
How long do these protein bars last?
When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these protein bars can last up to a week. If you’d like to keep them longer, they can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw them before eating.
Can I make these bars without protein powder?
Yes, you can omit the protein powder if you prefer. The bars will still be delicious and nutritious, thanks to the oats, nut butter, and chia seeds. However, they will have less protein, so you might want to add more nuts or seeds to compensate.
Summary
These gluten-free protein bars are a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make snack that’s perfect for any time of the day. With simple ingredients and no baking required, they’re a great option for meal prep or a quick energy boost.