Are you ready to elevate your snacking game with a delicious and nutritious treat? Meet "Claudia's Vegan Protein Bars" — the perfect blend of wholesome ingredients that not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also fuel your body! With just 30 minutes of your time, you can whip up a batch of these mouthwatering bars that are packed with protein and flavor. Whether you’re looking for a post-workout boost or a midday pick-me-up, these bars are your new go-to snack. Dive into this simple recipe and discover how easy it is to indulge guilt-free!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup protein powder
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of oats, 1/2 cup of protein powder, and 1/4 cup of chopped nuts. Stir these dry ingredients together until they are evenly mixed.
- In a separate bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of almond butter and 1/4 cup of maple syrup until smooth and well combined. If the almond butter is too thick, you can warm it slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to make it easier to mix.
- Pour the almond butter and maple syrup mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is well incorporated and forms a thick, sticky dough.
- Fold in 1/4 cup of dark chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands to press it down firmly and evenly into the dish, making sure the top is smooth.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
- After the bars have cooled completely, cut them into 12 equal squares or rectangles. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
- Enjoy your homemade Claudia's Vegan Protein Bars as a nutritious snack or post-workout treat!
Tips
- Customize Your Nuts: Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts based on your preference or what you have on hand. Walnuts, pecans, or even seeds can add a unique twist to the bars.
- Protein Powder Choices: Choose your favorite protein powder flavor! Vanilla or chocolate protein powder can enhance the taste of your bars, making them even more delicious.
- Chill for Extra Firmness: If you prefer a firmer bar, consider refrigerating the mixture for about 30 minutes before baking. This will help them hold their shape better.
- Add Some Spice: For an extra flavor kick, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla extract to the almond butter mixture. It can elevate the taste profile significantly!
- Store Smartly: To keep your bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. You can also wrap them individually for a convenient on-the-go snack.
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your bars while they bake. They should be golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center. Over-baking can lead to a dry texture.
- Experiment with Mix-Ins: Don’t hesitate to mix in dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for added sweetness and chewiness. Enjoy creating your own version of Claudia's Vegan Protein Bars and share them with friends and family for a healthy treat everyone will love!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 119kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg