The Fastest Easiest Chocolate Protein Bars

For a lot of busy moms, finding tasty, healthy snacks can feel daunting. But why settle for store-bought options filled with preservatives? Making your own snacks at home not only ensures freshness but also gives you control over ingredients. Enter these fast and easy gluten-free protein bars made with almond butter, crispy rice cereal, and plant-based protein. With their delicious flavors and energy-boosting qualities, these bars are perfect for breakfast, midday cravings, or post-exercise recovery.

One of the key benefits of crafting your own protein bars is ingredient control. Many commercial snacks come loaded with added sugars and artificial flavors. A LOT of popular protein bars contain over 20 grams of sugar. In contrast, when you make bars at home, every ingredient can be chosen for its nutritional value.

Also when you make these chocolate protein bars at home, it allows you to customize flavors and textures. Almond butter adds a rich, nutty taste while packing in healthy fats and vital nutrients like vitamin E and magnesium. Using plant-based protein options caters to various diets, making these bars excellent for vegans or those avoiding animal products. With this recipe, you can nourish your body without sacrificing flavor or health. If you prefer, you may substitute sunflower seed butter or peanut butter or any type of nut or seed butter you prefer!

The Basics:

Almond Butter

Almond butter is an essential base for these protein bars and you need to choose an unsweetened creamy version.

Crispy Rice Cereal

Crispy rice cereal offers an enjoyable crunch, creating a lighter texture in your bars. This ingredient is naturally gluten-free, making it a go-to option for those with gluten sensitivities but aim for unsweetened and organic when possible. I prefer crisy rice cereal made with brown rice for additional health benefits.

Plant-Based Protein

Integrating plant-based protein powder allows you to meet your body's protein needs. Options like hemp protein can be purchased plain without added fillers. Pea protein is another protein powder I enjoy in moderation. Pea protein can provide around 15-20 grams of protein per serving, while adding a smooth consistency to your bars. Select a protein powder that aligns with your dietary preferences to enhance your creations further AND choose one that's non-gritty to bake with. I've found Truvani and Orgain works the best.

Easy Recipe for Homemade Protein Bars

Yields 10-12, Takes 10 Min to make with 15 Min Chill Time

Ingredients

1-1/2 cups gluten-free oat flour or oats, blended into a flour (I do this with my seed grinder for a cheaper option)

1/4 cup unsweetened/unflavoured protein powder (I used this hemp one)

1/4 cup chocolate protein powder (I used Chocolate Orgain for it's smooth and rich flavor)

1 scoop collagen peptides (omit for vegan)

1/2 cup brown rice crisp cereal

1/4 tsp sea salt

1/2 cup creamy unsweetened almond butter

1/3 cup honey (or maple syrup)

1-1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Optional:

Melted coconut-sugar-sweetened chocolate chips drizzled on top for extra chocolate

Instructions

Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ingredients, stirring until fully combined.
Press Into Mold: Press into a silicone granola bar mold or pan.
Chill and Cut: Refrigerate the pan for at least 15 minutes in the freezer until it sets. Once firm, remove from the molds or from the pan and cut into bars.
Store: Place the protein bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer.

Enjoy Your Creation

Homemade protein bars are an excellent way to fuel your day, and this easy recipe makes it simple. You can pack them in school lunches (if your kids' school is nut-free, use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter in your fast easy protein bars!).

They are great for a work snack and pre or post workout snack, too!

Feel free to personalize this recipe by adding your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts to boost flavor and nutrition.

Drizzle on melted chocolate for more of a treat or dessert, too! Click the image to check out my granola bar molds; these come in a set of 2 for less an $9 on Amazon, and if you purchase from clicking this image, I may get a few cents too so thanks for the support!