Homemade snacks don’t have to be difficult and these easy protein bars are a great example of that.

With only 6 main ingredients, they are a breeze to make.

They are vegan, gluten-free and full of amazing, good-for-you ingredients. They will really give you a mid-afternoon boost.

What ingredients do you need to make your own protein bars?

• Oats
• Unflavoured protein powder
• Cashew Butter
• Maple syrup
• Almond milk
• Dark chocolate

Can you add other ingredients to the bars?

There are a few optional extras you can add to the bars. Vanilla bean paste is a great one to use if you like a sweeter taste but don’t want to add more sugar. It gives the bars a lovely mild, vanilla taste without being overpowering.

I also like to add nuts to the top to make them look more interesting. It also adds to the protein and nutritional content of the bars.

You can also swap out some of the protein powder for cacao powder to make them more chocolatey,

Try not to add too many extra dry ingredients, otherwise the bars might not stick together.

How to make these easy protein bars

You simply add all the base ingredients and mix together in a bowl. Press down into a baking tray and top with dark chocolate and refrigerate. Couldn’t be easier!

Why make your own homemade protein bars?

Many shop-bought protein bars contain high levels of refined sugar, and many contain emulsifiers and additives that you really don’t want to be consuming on a regular basis. Making your own couldn’t be easier and means you can be in charge of the ingredients.

Many people can be put off from making homemade snacks as they can seem complicated or have too many ingredients but hopefully this recipe will change your mind!

Why to use an unflavoured protein powder

Flavoured protein powders can often contain lots of extra ingredients to make them taste more palatable. Artificial flavourings are a good example. Make sure you check the ingredients if you are tempted to try one. Otherwise, stick to unflavoured ones. You can then add-in extras such as vanilla or cacao powder, if you want them to taste different.

Are protein bars good for you?

My homemade protein bars are definitely nutritious! I’ve laid out the benefits of the main ingredients below:

Oats

These are one of my favourite ingredients for bars. Oats are a fantastic whole-grain packed with fibre. They are rich in complex carbohydrates, which provide slow-releasing energy, helping you stay fuller for longer. Oats also contain a range of essential nutrients, including B vitamins, iron, and magnesium, all of which support energy production and overall health. If you are gluten-free, check to make sure your oats are certified gluten-free.

Protein powder

I always use an unflavoured, organic protein powder. Usually pea but sometimes a combination of pea, hemp and brown rice. For this recipe I’ve use pea. I find pea protein to be a great protein source that’s really easily digestible. It contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein. 

Cashew butter

You can use any nut butter for these bars. I’ve used cashew butter. I like the lighter colour and the softer taste you get with cashew butter. It’s high in good fats as well as fibre and protein. Cashew butter also contains some important micronutrients, like copper, magnesium, and phosphorus.

Almond milk

You can use any milk to hold these bars together. I’ve used almond milk as it like the subtle flavour it brings.

Maple syrup

A natural sweetener, maple syrup adds just the right amount of sweetness without the need for more refined sugars. It’s a good source of antioxidants and contains small amounts of essential minerals like manganese, zinc, and iron. Making the bars yourself means you can judge how much sugar you add. I add a 1/4 cup but add more or less depending on your own tastes. If adding less, just make sure to add a bit more milk so the bars don’t crumble.

Dark chocolate

You will know by now that dark chocolate is always my preferred choice. It’s a good source of antioxidants and contains minerals such as iron, magnesium, and copper. I also opt for one that has minimal sugar and at least 70% cocoa solids.

Storage Tips

These easy protein bars can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 6 days. 

If you want to store them for a longer period, you can freeze them. They’ll last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

If you do, try these bars do let me know what you think in the comments below.

Recipe Tips:

• Adjust the nut butter if needed: I use a smooth, quite runny cashew butter to make these. If your nut butter is a little harder, you may need to add some more as you mix to get the same soft consistency.
• Which oats: I like to use small porridge oats for this recipe. Large oats need more liquid, and your bars may not set as well.
• Toast your oats: I like to toast the oats in the oven for 10 mins before using, but this is optional.
• Let It chill thoroughly: For the best results, let the bars chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before slicing. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to cut into neat bars.
• Swap cashew butter: you can swap the cashew butter for peanut or almond, if preferred.
• Press down firmly: These bars really need pressing down firmly into the tin to ensure they hold together. 

Here are some other high protein recipes you may like:

Chocolate protein pudding

Cookie dough protein cups

High protein green smoothie

High protein snickers smoothie

And if you are interested in learning more about protein, particularly plant protein, why not read my Nutritionist’s Guide To Plant Protein.