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No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 27 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 16 servings
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

These No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars combine creamy peanut butter, honey, oats, and protein powder into a delicious and nutritious snack. Topped with melty dark and semi-sweet chocolate chips and optional flaked sea salt, they offer a perfect balance of sweetness and protein without any oven time, making them an ideal quick and healthy treat for on-the-go energy.


Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • 1¼ cups creamy no-stir peanut butter
  • ⅓ cup honey
  • ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
  • ½ cup vanilla protein powder

Toppings

  • ½ cup dark chocolate chips
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • Flaked sea salt (optional, for topping)


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy no-stir peanut butter and honey. Stir well until fully blended and smooth.
  2. Add Dry Ingredients: Mix in the old-fashioned rolled oats and vanilla protein powder. Stir thoroughly to create a uniform, slightly thick dough-like consistency.
  3. Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture into a lined or lightly greased baking pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press the mixture evenly and firmly into the pan, ensuring a compact layer.
  4. Melt Chocolate Chips: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark and semi-sweet chocolate chips together in 20-30 second intervals, stirring between each until smooth and fully melted.
  5. Pour Chocolate Layer: Evenly pour and spread the melted chocolate over the pressed peanut butter mixture, using a spatula to cover completely.
  6. Add Optional Topping: Sprinkle flaked sea salt over the melted chocolate layer to enhance flavor, if using.
  7. Chill to Set: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the bars to firm up and the chocolate to set properly.
  8. Slice and Serve: Once firm, remove from the fridge and cut into 16 equal bars. Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week for best freshness.

Notes

  • Use no-stir peanut butter to avoid extra stirring, but natural peanut butter works if thoroughly mixed beforehand.
  • Make sure to press the base firmly into the pan to help the bars hold their shape after chilling.
  • You can substitute protein powder with a plant-based alternative to accommodate dietary preferences.
  • Store bars in the refrigerator to prevent melting and ensure longer shelf life.
  • Flaked sea salt is optional but provides a nice contrast to the sweetness of the bars.