No-Bake Peanut Butter Protein Bars Recipe
These No-Bake Peanut Butter Protein Bars are a quick, healthy, and delicious snack packed with creamy peanut butter, protein powder, oats, and a layer of rich dark chocolate. Perfect for a pre- or post-workout boost, they require no baking and come together easily in just a few simple steps.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 to 16 bars 1x
- Category: Snacks
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups creamy no-stir peanut butter
- ¾ cup vanilla protein powder (or your favorite flavor)
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips
- Optional: sea salt for topping
Instructions
- Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, vanilla protein powder, honey or maple syrup, and rolled oats. Stir thoroughly until the mixture becomes thick, sticky, and holds together well.
- Shape the Bars: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Transfer the peanut butter mixture into the dish and press it down firmly and evenly to create a compact base layer.
- Add the Chocolate Topping: Melt the dark chocolate chips in the microwave by heating in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter mixture and spread it evenly with a spatula. Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for added flavor.
- Chill & Set: Place the baking dish in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, allowing the protein bars to firm up and the chocolate layer to set completely.
- Slice & Serve: Once fully set, remove from the refrigerator and cut into 12 to 16 bars depending on your desired size. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze to extend shelf life.
Notes
- Use no-stir peanut butter for easier mixing and consistent texture.
- You can substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan option.
- To make bars dairy-free, ensure the protein powder and chocolate chips are dairy-free.
- For extra crunch, consider adding chopped nuts or seeds to the base mixture.
- Store bars in the fridge to maintain texture and freshness, especially during warmer months.
Keywords: no bake protein bars, peanut butter bars, healthy snacks, protein bars, easy no bake recipe, peanut butter protein bars, post workout snack
