Protein Power Bars with Chocolate Coating Recipe
Introduction
These homemade protein bars are a convenient, nutritious snack perfect for fueling your day. Made with simple ingredients like peanut butter and protein powder, they offer a delicious boost of energy with every bite. Customize them easily to suit your taste and dietary needs.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cup peanut butter (or allergy-friendly substitute)
- 3/4 cup protein powder (about 90g)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (or honey)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 oz melted chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, protein powder, maple syrup, and salt. Stir well until the mixture forms a thick dough.
- Step 2: Shape the dough into bars using your hands or press it evenly into a lined 8×8 inch pan for a uniform shape.
- Step 3: If using chocolate, melt the chocolate chips and optionally stir in 2 teaspoons of oil for a smoother texture. Spread the melted chocolate over the bars in the pan or dip each bar individually.
- Step 4: Refrigerate the bars until fully chilled and set, about 1 to 2 hours.
- Step 5: If you used the pan method, cut into bars after chilling. Enjoy your homemade protein bars as a satisfying snack.
Tips & Variations
- Choose a protein powder you enjoy since it impacts the flavor; unsweetened varieties work well.
- Try allergy-friendly peanut butter alternatives like almond or sunflower seed butter.
- Experiment with different sweeteners such as honey or flavored syrups based on your preference.
- Add mix-ins like nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
Storage
Store the protein bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage—up to one month. To enjoy, thaw in the fridge or at room temperature, and eat cold or at room temperature for the best taste.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of nut butter?
Yes, feel free to substitute peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter depending on your allergies and preferences.
Do I have to add chocolate?
No, the chocolate coating is optional. The bars are tasty on their own and the chocolate adds extra richness if you choose to include it.
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Protein Power Bars with Chocolate Coating Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 bars 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These homemade protein bars are a simple and nutritious snack option made with peanut butter, protein powder, and natural sweeteners. Perfect for a quick energy boost or post-workout refuel, they can be easily customized with different protein powder flavors and an optional chocolate coating for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups peanut butter (or allergy-friendly substitute)
- 3/4 cup protein powder (90g)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (or honey)
- 1/2 tsp salt
Optional Coating
- 4 oz melted chocolate chips
- 2 tsp oil (optional, for smoother chocolate sauce)
Instructions
- Prepare the mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, protein powder, maple syrup (or honey), and salt. Stir all ingredients thoroughly until a dough forms with a consistent texture.
- Shape the bars: You can either shape the dough into individual bars by hand or spread the mixture evenly into a lined 8×8 inch pan to create a uniform layer.
- Optional chocolate coating: If desired, melt the chocolate chips and optionally stir in 2 teaspoons of oil to thin out the chocolate sauce. Spread this melted chocolate evenly over the surface of the dough in the pan, or dip the shaped bars individually in the chocolate.
- Chill: Place the bars or the pan in the refrigerator. Allow them to chill until firm, which typically takes about 1-2 hours.
- Cut and serve: Once chilled and set, cut the dough into bars if you used the pan method. Store in the refrigerator until ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Choose a protein powder flavor you enjoy, as it significantly influences the taste of the bars.
- The recipe works best with unsweetened protein powder but feel free to experiment with different kinds.
- Use allergy-friendly peanut butter substitutes if needed.
- Adding oil to melted chocolate helps create a smoother coating but is optional.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snacks
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: protein bars, healthy snacks, peanut butter bars, no-bake protein bars, homemade protein bars, post-workout snack
