Protein Bars

Here’s a simple, customizable recipe for Homemade Protein Bars — no baking required, and perfect for a post-workout snack or quick breakfast.

💪 No-Bake Protein Bars

Base Ingredients:

• 1½ cups rolled oats

• 1 cup protein powder (whey, plant-based, or your choice)

• 1/2 cup peanut butter (or almond butter)

• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

• 1/3 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Optional Add-ins:

• 2–3 tbsp chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate

• 2 tbsp flaxseed or chia seeds

• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, etc.)

• 1–2 tbsp cocoa powder (for a chocolate version)

• Dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Mix dry ingredients:
   In a large bowl, stir together oats, protein powder, and salt (plus cocoa, seeds, or other dry mix-ins if using).

2. Mix wet ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, stir together peanut butter, honey, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Warm slightly if needed to make mixing easier.

3. Combine:
   Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients. Stir until well combined — it should be thick but moldable. Add chocolate chips last so they don’t melt.

4. Press into a pan:
   Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper. Press the mixture evenly into the pan using a spatula or your hands.

5. Chill and slice:
   Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, then cut into bars or squares. Store in an airtight container in the fridge (up to 1 week) or freezer (up to 2 months).

✅ Tips:

• Too dry? Add a splash more milk or nut butter.

• Too sticky? Add more oats or chill longer.

• Higher protein? Use more powder, or replace some oats with almond flour.

Would you like a baked version, low-carb/keto style, or a nut-free option?