Protein Oat Bars
The world of protein bars is a an overwhelming place. Too much sugar, not enough protein, don’t taste good, too expensive…. but we need to have those on-the-go options to help us through our day, right?
Here is a recipe that I promise is not too complicated to make, with a proper balance of flavor and protein with just a hint of sweet. I made these for my daughter to take to school (nut-free option!) but now I’m finding they’re a great mid-afternoon snack for myself.
Yield: 14 squares
Protein Oat Bars
These protein bars come together easily and make a fantastic, kid-friendly snack.
Prep time: 15 MinCook time: 25 MinTotal time: 40 Min
Ingredients
- 2.5 cups rolled oats (gluten free, organic recommended)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (toasted is yummy)
- 1/2 cup currants
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional, fun for kids)
- 1/2 cup collagen protein powder (or favorite protein powder)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup nut butter (or sunbutter for nut-free)
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup (I like half of each)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Line an 8x8 or 9x9 baking dish with parchment.
- Combine all the dry ingredients in a bowl, including currants, chocolate chips and protein powder - mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla, nut butter and honey/maple syrup.
- Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir well with a spatula to evenly combine.
- Press mixture into the baking dish, and continue to press down firmly with palm to flatten and pack down the mixture.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until just lightly browned on edges, remove from oven and allow to cool.
- Lift up on parchment to remove from dish, cut into squares once fully cooled.
- Store in an airtight container in fridge for 1 week or in freezer for up to 3 months.
