No Bake Protein Bars

Bars are a convenient snack between meals to squeeze in some extra protein. These peanut butter chocolate chip bars are my take on a homemade Perfect Bar. Super quick to make (no baking required!), and satisfies my sweet tooth while getting 8+ grams of protein per square. 

Simple substitutes also make this recipe gluten-free and dairy-free. If necessary for GF/DF restrictions, be sure to check the ingredient list of your protein powder and chocolate chips.

ingredients

3 tablespoon almond flour

2/3 cup protein powder (I use vanilla flavored)

1 cup natural creamy peanut butter

2 tablespoon maple syrup

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 tablespoon almond milk

1/4 cup chocolate chips (I used minis)

sea salt (optional/recommended)

directions

{1}

Add almond flour, protein powder, peanut butter, maple syrup and vanilla to a large bowl. Stir well until all ingredients are combined. Add almond milk and mix until a thick dough is formed. If it is too crumbly, add another tbsp of almond milk / if it's too runny, add another tbsp of almond flour.

{2}

In a parchment paper lined baking dish (I used an 8x8), press dough very firmly into the dish in an even layer, making sure each corner is filled and flatten the top using a silicone spatula.

{3}

Add chocolate chips to the top and lightly press them into the dough. Sprinkle with sea salt if desired - highly recommend as it brings out the sweetness in the chocolate.

{4}

Pop the baking dish into the freezer for at least 1 hour. Remove parchment paper and hardened dough from the dish and place on a cutting board. Slice into bars - I did 16 squares. Store in the fridge or freezer in an airtight container.

Nutrition facts will vary a bit depending on the exact brands you use for each ingredient - but each square comes out to ~150 calories, 10g fat, 8g carbs, 1g fiber and over 8g of protein!