Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars (vegan, gluten-free, oil-free, refined sugar free)
These chocolate peanut butter protein bars are super easy to make, cheaper than store bought, and taste so good! Made with only 5 simple ingredients, these homemade protein bars are healthy and don’t have any weird ingredients in them. They taste just like a Reese’s peanut butter cup, only way better for you! It’s the perfect snack, pre/post workout fuel, or dessert!
Store bought protein bars can cost anywhere from $2-$5! It can get pretty pricey, so I thought I would make my own. This way, I know I’m saving money and I know exactly what goes in them. Not only do they taste better than the store bought ones, it’s nourishing and won’t spike your blood sugar.
If you are allergic to peanuts or don’t like peanut butter, you can definitely swap it out for your favorite nut or seed butter. You can also add more sweetener if you like a sweeter bar. I personally don’t like it super sweet and thought this was the perfect amount. My protein powder was also slightly sweetened.
I used my favorite protein powder by Nuzest (use code: NUTSABOUTGREENS15 to save $$ at checkout). In my opinion, they make the cleanest and best tasting protein powder. I’m super picky about protein powders and Nuzest has a probiotic protein powder line that is great for sensitive stomachs, like mine. I used the probiotic vanilla in these protein bars and it made it taste so yummy!
These chocolate peanut butter protein bars are super easy to whip up and take literally 10 minutes from start to finish! It not only tastes delicious, but will save you money. If you make these, tag me @nutsaboutgreens on Instagram so I can see your creations!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars (vegan, gluten-free, oil-free, refined sugar free)
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup natural, drippy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder (I used Nuzest probiotic vanilla, use code NUTSABOUTGREENS15 to save $$)
- 2 tbsp ground flaxseed
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- 2 tbsp water (more or less depending on your protein powder
optional, but recommended
- 2.5 oz dark chocolate
- 1 tsp coconut oil
Instructions
- Line an 8×4 loaf pan with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a large bowl, add the peanut butter and maple syrup. Microwave for 30 seconds to warm it up so you can mix it better. Stir until combined and smooth.
- Add the protein powder, ground flaxseed, chia seeds, and water. Stir until a thick cookie dough like texture forms. It might look a little crumbly but if it sticks together when smashed in-between your fingers, it is good. Add more water or peanut butter if it looks too dry. If it looks too wet, add more protein powder. Every protein powder is different so just make sure you get a dough that sticks together when pressed down. Taste and add more maple syrup if you want it sweeter.
- Transfer dough to your lined loaf pan. Use the bottom of a glass cup or measuring cup and press the dough down firmly until it is evenly packed down in the pan. Place in the freezer.
- Make the chocolate topping by combining the chocolate and coconut oil in a small bowl. Microwave in 30 second increments until melted, stirring after each increment. Careful not to burn your chocolate.
- Pour chocolate over your protein bars. Swirl the pan around to make sure the chocolate gets evenly distributed over the top. Place in the freezer for 30 minutes to set. Slice and enjoy! Store in the fridge or freezer.
