Homemade Protein Bars

These homemade protein bars are a no-bake, high-protein snack made with peanut butter, plant-based protein powder, dates, chia, and dark chocolate. They’re easy to prep, firm up in the fridge, and are perfect for meal prep all week.

Recipe Developer-Estefania

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Total Time 1 15

Ingredients

Instructions

Line an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking tin with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Add the dates to a shallow bowl, cover with boiling water, soak for 10 minutes, then drain (reserving a splash of the liquid) and mash into a thick paste.
In a large bowl, mix the ground almonds, ground chia seeds, and protein powder until fully combined. Add the peanut butter and honey to the bowl and mix well, then add the mashed dates and stir until a thick, even dough forms.
Transfer the mixture to the lined tin and press it firmly into an even layer using the back of a spoon. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes, or until set.
Lift the slab out using the parchment overhang, place it on a cutting board, then cut into bars.
Add the chopped dark chocolate and coconut oil to a microwave-safe bowl, then microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each burst, until smooth and glossy.
Drizzle the melted chocolate over the bars, place on a parchment-lined tray, then refrigerate until set.

Notes

Mixing the Dough: I sometimes switch to using my hands to mix the dough; it helps everything come together evenly and makes it easier to form a cohesive dough.

Date Texture: If the date paste feels too thick, I add a small splash of the reserved soaking water to loosen it slightly.

Firmness Tip: For firmer protein bars, chill for a full hour before cutting, especially if your peanut butter is very soft.

Nutrition