Coconut & Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars are the perfect snack for anyone searching for a healthy, delicious boost of energy. Packed with protein from natural peanut butter and protein powder, these bars combine the rich flavors of chocolate and coconut to create a tasty treat that can easily be enjoyed on-the-go. Whether you need a post-workout pick-me-up or a mid-afternoon snack, these homemade protein bars are sure to satisfy your cravings while nourishing your body.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (just peanuts + salt) / 125g
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil / 30ml
- 1/3 cup honey (or coconut palm syrup for vegan) / 113g
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract / 5ml
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder / 60g
- 1 cup oats / 100g
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds / 15g
- 2 tablespoons chocolate chips + 1 teaspoon coconut oil / 30g + 5ml
- 1/3 cup unsweetened shredded coconut / 25g
- Optional: 1/3 cup dried tart cherries (or dried fruit of choice) / 50g
- Fancy sea salt, for sprinkling
Directions
- Heat the peanut butter, coconut oil, honey, and vanilla extract in a saucepan over low heat. Mix together until well combined and smooth, then remove from heat and transfer to a large bowl.
- Stir in the vanilla protein powder until smooth, then fold in the oats, chia seeds, shredded coconut, and the dried cherries if using. Place the mixture in an 8×4 inch (20×10 cm) loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
- In a small saucepan, add the chocolate chips and 1 teaspoon of coconut oil. Place the saucepan over low heat and stir until melted, then drizzle the chocolate mixture over the tops of the bars. Sprinkle with fancy sea salt.
- Place the pan in the fridge for 1 hour. After chilling, remove from the pan and cut into 10 bars or squares. Store the bars tightly wrapped or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 10 bars
Nutrition info: Approx. 200 calories per bar, with protein, healthy fats, and fiber.
How to serve
Coconut & Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars can be enjoyed in several ways. Cut them into squares for a convenient snack to bring along in your bag or lunchbox. Serve them as an after-dinner treat with a glass of almond milk, or crumble them over a bowl of yogurt for a delicious breakfast. For those looking to impress, these protein bars can be served on a platter with fresh fruit for a healthy dessert option at gatherings.
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the peanut butter?
Yes, you can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or any nut butter of your choice, keeping in mind any flavor changes.
2. How can I make these bars vegan?
To make them vegan, simply use coconut palm syrup instead of honey, and ensure that your protein powder is plant-based.
3. How should I store the protein bars?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for optimal freshness, where they will keep for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.