Protein Bars

I love this protein bar recipe—they’re made with just four simple ingredients and come together in minutes. Plus, you can easily customize them to suit different flavors and dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I appreciate how quick and versatile this recipe is. With just peanut butter, protein powder, maple syrup (or honey), and a touch of salt, I can whip up healthy bars in under 10 minutes. The optional melted chocolate adds a rich touch when I’m craving something indulgent. These bars are great for snacking, post-workout fuel, or meal prep.

Ingredients

(Herе’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1½ cups peanut butter (or an allergy-friendly alternative)

• ¾ cup protein powder (about 90 g)

• ¼ cup pure maple syrup or honey

• ½ tsp salt

• 4 oz melted chocolate chips (optional)

Directions

1. Stir together the peanut butter, protein powder, maple syrup (or honey), and salt until you form a thick dough.

2. Shape the dough into bars with your hands, or press it firmly into a lined 8×8‑inch pan.

3. For a chocolate coating, melt chocolate chips and—if desired—stir in about 2 tsp of oil for smoothness. Either spread this over the top of the bars in the pan, or dip each bar individually.

4. Refrigerate until fully chilled and set (about 30 minutes), then slice into 10–16 bars, depending on your preferred size.

Servings and timing

• Yield: 10–16 bars

• Prep Time: About 5 minutes

• Chilling Time: Approximately 30 minutes

• Total Time: Around 35 minutes (including chilling)

Variations

• Chocolate Peanut Butter: Use chocolate-flavored protein powder and dip bars in dark chocolate.

• Almond Joy Style: Add shredded coconut and dip in chocolate for a tropical twist.

• Peanut Butter & Jelly: Swirl a bit of sugar-free jam into the dough before chilling.

• Keto-Friendly: Swap maple syrup for sugar-free syrup and use keto protein powder.

• Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.

Storage/Reheating

I store mine in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge before eating. No reheating required; they’re best served chilled.

FAQs

1. Can I substitute the peanut butter with something else?

Yes—I’ve used almond butter or sunflower seed butter with great results. Adjust the salt if needed since flavors vary.

2. What type of protein powder works best?

I prefer unsweetened whey or plant-based protein powder. Make sure I like the flavor, as it carries through in the bars.

3. Can I make these nut-free?

Definitely. Sunflower seed butter is my go-to swap for a nut-free version that still gives a creamy texture.

4. Do I have to add the chocolate?

Nope! The bars are delicious plain. The chocolate coating is optional if I want a sweeter, dessert-like touch.

5. How do I know when the bars are properly set?

I chill the bars for at least 30 minutes until they’re firm enough to slice cleanly. The chocolate should be fully hardened.

Conclusion

These protein bars are my go-to go‑to snack when I want something healthy, easy, and satisfying. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, I can enjoy homemade protein bars anytime. I love experimenting with flavors and always have a batch in the fridge for busy days.