No-Bake Vanilla Protein Bars
User Reviews
5
No-Bake Vanilla Protein Bars
Description
These No-Bake Vanilla Protein Bars start with oats mixed into vegan protein powder, providing whole grain and protein content. The wet ingredients—coconut oil, peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract—are gently heated and combined to create a smooth binder. This is mixed with the dry ingredients and almond milk added gradually until the mixture holds together but remains slightly crumbly.
The combined batter is pressed evenly into a lined pan and frozen for about 30 minutes to firm up. After chilling, the bars are cut and allowed to thaw briefly before serving, resulting in a firm yet chewy texture. The vanilla flavor adds a gentle sweetness that complements the peanut butter and oats.
The texture and flavor depend on the choice of protein powder, and the recipe notes that some powders absorb liquids differently, potentially requiring adjustments in oat quantity. Optional toppings like mini chocolate chips melted with coconut oil can be drizzled over the bars, though this alters nutritional content.
These bars are convenient for making ahead and suitable for various dietary needs when ingredient choices are verified. Letting them thaw before eating improves texture and enjoyment.
Ingredients
- 1 cup oats
- ½ cup vegan protein powder 2 scoops
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil measured solid
- ½ cup peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup almond milk
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine oats and protein powder.
- In a small bowl or pot heat the coconut oil and peanut butter slowly until coconut oil is melted. Remove from heat. Whisk in the honey and vanilla until everything is combined and smooth.
- Pour the peanut butter mixture into the oat mixture and mix with a fork until it looks sticky but crumbly.
- Very slowly, add in the almond milk and mix until everything is combined and holding together.
- Line an 8x4 baking pan with parchment paper. Place the mixture into the pan and use another piece of parchment paper to press the mixture down evenly.
- Place in the freezer for thirty minutes to set.
- Remove and let thaw for five minutes before cutting into bars.
Notes
- The type of vegan protein powder affects flavor and texture; some may require adding more oats for proper stickiness.
- Thaw bars at room temperature for about ten minutes or in the fridge for longer before eating for best texture.
- Check labels of ingredients to ensure they meet any dietary restrictions like gluten-free or dairy-free.
- An optional drizzle of melted mini chocolate chips with coconut oil can be added but changes nutritional values.
- Protein content varies by protein powder brand, so values may shift slightly.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 5bars
Amount Per Serving
Calories 360 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 360kcal | 18% |
| Carbohydrates | 24g | 8% |
| Protein | 17g | 34% |
| Fat | 23g | 35% |
| Saturated Fat | 10g | 50% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4g | 24% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Sodium | 244mg | 10% |
| Potassium | 234mg | 5% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 10g | 20% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 42mg | 4% |
| Iron | 3mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.