Are you ready to indulge in a delicious treat that won't derail your healthy eating goals? Say hello to these Healthy Peanut Butter Chocolate Protein Bars! Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor, these bars are not only a guilt-free snack but also a fantastic source of protein to fuel your day. Whether you're post-workout or simply craving something sweet, this recipe is your ticket to satisfying those cravings without compromising your health. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make! Keep reading to discover how to whip up these delightful bars in just 30 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Healthy
Serves: 10 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup chocolate protein powder
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of rolled oats and 1/4 cup of chocolate protein powder. Stir well to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly mixed.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, add 1/2 cup of peanut butter and 1/4 cup of honey. Microwave the mixture for about 20-30 seconds until it's slightly warm and easier to mix. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the peanut butter and honey mixture into the bowl with the oats and protein powder. Add 1/4 teaspoon of salt and mix everything together until all the dry ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is sticky.
- Fold in 1/4 cup of dark chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or your hands to press it down firmly and evenly into the pan, ensuring it reaches all corners.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden and the center is set. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, cut into 10 equal bars. Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Tips
- Use Natural Peanut Butter: Opt for natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils for a healthier option that enhances the flavor of your bars.
- Customize Your Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter treat, feel free to adjust the amount of honey to your taste. You can also experiment with other sweeteners like maple syrup or agave.
- Mix-In Ideas: Get creative! Add in chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for extra texture and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust the proportions to maintain the right consistency.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the bars while they’re in the oven. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so remove them as soon as the edges turn golden.
- Storage Tips: To keep your bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them to extend their shelf life.
- Perfect Portioning: Use a sharp knife to cut the bars evenly once they’ve cooled completely. This will ensure that each bar is the perfect size for a quick snack on the go!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 5mg
