These Peanut Butter Protein Bars are the perfect blend of indulgence and nutrition, offering a chewy, satisfying bite packed with rich, nutty flavor. With just over an hour of prep, you’ll create a snack that’s both wholesome and delicious, ideal for fueling your day or satisfying a sweet craving.
Each bar is a harmony of creamy peanut butter, sweet honey, and a hint of chocolate, delivering a decadent yet guilt-free treat. Packed with 9 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber, they’re as nourishing as they are irresistible. The soft, dense texture and balanced sweetness make them a snack you’ll reach for again and again.
What You’ll Need for Peanut Butter Protein Bars
- 1½ cups quick cooking oats (use gluten-free if needed)
- ½ cup shredded coconut (unsweetened recommended)
- ½ cup natural peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, your choice)
- ¼ cup honey (substitute with maple syrup for a vegan option)
- ¼ cup applesauce (unsweetened works best)
- ¼ cup chocolate protein powder (vanilla or unflavored can also work)
- 2 Tablespoons chia seeds (flaxseeds can be used as a substitute)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (dark, milk, or sugar-free, depending on preference)
How to Make Peanut Butter Protein Bars
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the oats, shredded coconut, peanut butter, honey, applesauce, protein powder, chia seeds, and vanilla. Stir until everything is well incorporated and forms a sticky, uniform mixture.
- Add the chocolate chips: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Press into the pan: Lightly grease a 9 x 9 inch baking pan with oil or cooking spray. Transfer the mixture to the pan and press it down firmly and evenly using your hands or a spatula.
- Chill to set: Place the pan in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours, or until the mixture is firm and holds its shape.
- Cut into bars: Once firm, remove the pan from the refrigerator and cut the mixture into 2 x 3 inch bars using a sharp knife.
- Store or freeze: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days, or freeze them in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 30 days.
Storage and Reheating Tips
These Peanut Butter Protein Bars are perfect for meal prep! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. For longer storage, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in freezer-safe bags or containers. They’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 30 days. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for 10-15 minutes or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a quick snack.
Recipe Variations to Try
Customize your bars to suit your taste! Swap the natural peanut butter for almond or cashew butter, or use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan option. For a nut-free version, try sunflower seed butter. You can also mix in dried fruit like cranberries or raisins, or swap the mini chocolate chips for dark chocolate chunks. Experiment with different protein powder flavors, like vanilla or salted caramel, for a fun twist!
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Days
Short on time? Use a food processor to quickly blend the oats and coconut into a finer texture, which makes the mixture easier to press into the pan. If you’re in a rush, skip the refrigeration step and freeze the bars for 20-30 minutes instead. They’ll firm up faster and still hold their shape when cut. Pre-portion the bars and store them in grab-and-go containers for a quick, healthy snack anytime.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are great on their own, but you can elevate them with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt on top. Pair them with a piece of fruit, like a banana or apple, for a balanced snack. For a post-workout treat, enjoy a bar with a glass of almond milk or a smoothie. They’re also perfect for packing in lunchboxes or taking on hikes for a boost of energy.
Equipment Guidance
You’ll need a 9 x 9 inch baking pan for this recipe. Lightly grease it with coconut oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. A sturdy spatula or your hands work well for pressing the mixture evenly into the pan. For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it between slices. If you’re making these often, consider investing in a silicone baking pan for easy removal and cleanup.
Peanut Butter Protein Bars
Ingredients
- 1½ cups quick cooking oats
- ½ cup shredded coconut
- ½ cup natural peanut butter
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup applesauce
- ¼ cup chocolate protein powder
- 2 Tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together all ingredients until well combined.
- Press mixture into lightly greased 9 x 9 inch pan and refrigerate for 1-2 hours or until firm.
- Cut with a knife into 2 x 3 inch bars.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 10 days, or freeze them for up to 30 days in freezer safe bags or containers.