With no preservatives or strange additives, you’ll love the simple, nutritious ingredients that go into these high protein granola bars. Below are the primary items you’ll need, but be sure to double-check the recipe card below for all the specifics.

One of the great things about these protein granola bars is that they can easily be adjusted to fit all your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and add-ins to make them your own! For instance, some of our favorite variations include:

If you’ve never made a protein granola bar, it’s incredibly easy to do! Especially when you follow our tips below.

High protein granola bars are a great option to make in bulk and have on hand for quick breakfasts, lunchbox treats, or afternoon snacks. Luckily, they store well. So, feel free to make a double batch!

Refrigerator: Slice and transfer your bars to an airtight container. Or, wrap them up, and store them in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Freezer: Slice your bars, wrap them in wax or parchment paper, place them in a sealable bag or freezer-safe container, and keep them frozen for up to 6 months.

What’s the difference between a protein bar and a granola bar? 

The primary difference between a granola protein bar and a regular granola bar is the protein content. On average, granola bars have 1-3 grams of protein per serving. Meanwhile, protein granola bars have anywhere from 9-20 grams of protein per serving which is often achieved by incorporating protein powder.

What protein powder is best? 

Any protein can be used for this recipe. However, we highly recommend steering clear of those with artificial sugars as they tend to have an undesirable aftertaste.

Can I use quick oats or steel cut oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats? 

Quick oats aren’t as suitable, as they won’t deliver the thick, chewy texture we look for in these bars. Steel cut oats need to be fully cooked to be truly enjoyable.

Also try Fluffy Coconut Pancakes (dairy-free).

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 18 mins
Total Time: 28 mins
Servings: 12 servings

Ingredients

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350F with rack on lower middle position. Grease an 8×8 baking pan and set aside.

In a large bowl, combine the oats, protein powder, chia seeds, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk to combine.

In another bowl, combine the sunflower butter, honey or maple syrup, milk, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract. Mix until incorporated.

Pour mixture into the large bowl of dry ingredients. Stir and fold until fully combined. Using a rubber spatula, scrape the batter into the greased baking pan. Press evenly into pan, using firm pressure to compress the mixture into desired bar thickness.

Bake 18 minutes, or until edges turn golden grown. Center should still be soft. Let cool in pan completely, and slice into bars. Wrap in airtight container, and store in fridge for 1 week.

Notes

We love sunflower butter, but feel free to use any nut or seed butter you like best.

Protein powder is to be measured according to standard measuring cups, not the scoops that come inside the tub of protein powder.

Make it dairy-free: use almond or coconut milk or any other milk of your choice.

You can use any protein powder, but we recommend using vanilla flavored varieties made without fake/artificial sugars, as those tend to have an unpalatable aftertaste.

Bars can be sliced, wrapped, and frozen for up to 6 months so they’re ready to go for breakfast or snacks anytime.

Double-check that the brands you’re using are gluten and nut-free if needed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 209kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 18mg | Potassium: 100mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 17g | Vitamin A: 51IU | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 67mg | Iron: 2mg

This article was originally published on chewoutloud.com. Follow on Instagram