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Homemade Protein Bars with Chocolate Chips Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 20 reviews
  • Author: Mary
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 12 bars
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Delicious and easy no-bake protein bars made with rolled oats, protein powder, peanut butter, and a touch of sweetness. Perfect for a quick energy boost or post-workout snack, these bars combine creamy, chewy, and chocolatey flavors with wholesome ingredients.


Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
  • 1 cup protein powder (vanilla or chocolate)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup peanut butter (or almond butter)
  • 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow easy removal of the protein bars.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, protein powder, and salt, ensuring even distribution.
  3. Warm Wet Ingredients: In a microwave-safe bowl, warm the peanut butter and honey for 20 to 30 seconds until smooth and easily stirrable. Then mix in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring well. Gradually add the milk until the mixture holds together and can be pressed into the pan without crumbling.
  5. Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in the mini chocolate chips evenly throughout the mixture for chocolate bursts in every bite.
  6. Press Mixture Into Pan: Evenly press the mixture into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface.
  7. Chill: Refrigerate the pan for 1 hour to allow the bars to firm up and set correctly.
  8. Slice and Store: After chilling, slice the mixture into 12 bars and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Notes

  • Use either peanut butter or almond butter based on preference or dietary restrictions.
  • Honey can be substituted with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option.
  • Protein powder flavor can be vanilla or chocolate; adjust mini chocolate chips accordingly.
  • For extra texture, add chopped nuts or seeds if desired.
  • Store bars in the refrigerator to keep their shape and freshness.
  • These bars are great as a pre- or post-workout snack.