These homemade Peanut Butter Protein Bars are a healthy, no-bake snack that comes together in just five minutes. Made with only four core ingredients and loaded with customizable flavor options, they’re perfect for meal prep, post-workout fuel, or an on-the-go energy boost. Naturally sweetened and packed with protein, these bars are proof that nutritious can also be delicious.
Why You’ll Love These Protein Bars
No-Bake & Quick: Ready in just 5 minutes.
High in Protein: Perfect for fitness fuel or a balanced snack.
Customizable: Swap nut butters, add chocolate, or mix in nuts and seeds.
Gluten-Free & Naturally Sweetened: Clean ingredients with no baking required.
Meal Prep Friendly: Makes 10–16 bars to enjoy all week.
Time Needed
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 10–16 bars (depending on size)
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups peanut butter (or almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter)
- 3/4 cup protein powder (90g, unsweetened recommended)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 oz melted chocolate chips (optional, for coating or drizzle)
How to Make Protein Bars
1️⃣ Make the Dough
In a mixing bowl, stir together the peanut butter, protein powder, maple syrup or honey, and salt until a thick dough forms.
2️⃣ Shape the Bars
Press the dough into a lined 8×8-inch pan or shape individual bars by hand. Chill in the fridge until firm.
3️⃣ Add Chocolate (Optional)
Spread melted chocolate over the top of the dough before chilling, or dip individual bars into melted chocolate. For smoother consistency, stir in 2 tsp of oil with the chocolate (optional).
4️⃣ Slice & Serve
Once chilled, cut into bars and store in an airtight container.
Flavor Variations
- Chocolate Peanut Butter: Add cocoa powder to the dough.
- Coconut Almond: Mix in shredded coconut and use almond butter.
- Crunchy Nut: Stir in chopped peanuts or almonds.
- Berry Bliss: Add dried cranberries or blueberries.
- Keto-Friendly: Use a low-carb syrup and sugar-free chocolate.
Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Freeze up to 2 months. Let thaw slightly before eating.
Tips for Success
- Use a protein powder you enjoy the taste of—this affects the final flavor.
- If dough is too dry, add a splash of milk or more syrup. Too wet? Add more protein powder.
- For clean cuts, chill the dough completely before slicing.
Final Thoughts
These Peanut Butter Protein Bars are simple, satisfying, and so easy to make. With endless ways to customize and no baking involved, they’re an ideal snack to keep on hand for busy days or fitness goals. Whether you’re going for sweet, salty, or somewhere in between, there’s a flavor combo here for everyone!
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Homemade Peanut Butter Protein Bars
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 10–16 bars 1x
Description
Homemade Peanut Butter Protein Bars are quick, no-bake, and packed with clean, energizing ingredients. Great for post-workout snacks, meal prep, or anytime fuel!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups peanut butter (or almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter)
- 3/4 cup protein powder (90g, unsweetened recommended)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 oz melted chocolate chips (optional, for coating or drizzle)
Instructions
- Mix peanut butter, protein powder, syrup/honey, and salt in a bowl until dough forms.
- Press dough into a lined 8×8-inch pan or shape into bars. Chill until firm.
- Optional: Spread or dip in melted chocolate. Add 2 tsp oil to chocolate for smoother texture.
- Once set, cut into bars. Store in an airtight container.
Notes
Customize with cocoa powder, nuts, coconut, or dried fruit. Adjust consistency by tweaking syrup or protein powder.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
Keywords: homemade protein bars, peanut butter bars, no bake protein snacks, healthy energy bars