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Easy No-Bake Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars

no bake dark chocolate peanut butter protein bars - featured image

These easy no-bake protein bars combine dark chocolate and peanut butter for a quick, filling, and healthy snack packed with protein and fiber. Perfect for busy days, they require no oven and minimal equipment.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (135g) rolled oats
  • ¾ cup (190g) natural peanut butter (unsweetened, unsalted)
  • ½ cup (90g) dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa recommended)
  • ½ cup (50g) vanilla whey or plant-based protein powder
  • ¼ cup (60ml) honey or pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons (30-45ml) unsweetened almond milk
  • A pinch of sea salt

Instructions

  1. Combine the dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, add rolled oats, protein powder, dark chocolate chips, chia seeds (if using), and sea salt. Stir gently to evenly distribute everything (about 2 minutes).
  2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, stir together natural peanut butter and honey or maple syrup until smooth. Slightly warm peanut butter if needed (about 3 minutes).
  3. Combine wet and dry: Pour the peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients. Fold together with a rubber spatula, adding almond milk 1 tablespoon at a time until the batter holds together but is not too sticky or runny (4-5 minutes).
  4. Press into the pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper and transfer the mixture in. Press firmly and evenly into the pan (about 3 minutes).
  5. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the bars set. Alternatively, chill in the freezer for 30 minutes but do not freeze solid.
  6. Slice and serve: Lift bars out using parchment edges and cut into 10-12 squares with a sharp knife. Keep refrigerated until ready to eat.

Notes

Use natural peanut butter without added sugar or salt for best flavor and texture. Chilling is essential to firm the bars. Adjust almond milk quantity to achieve a moldable batter. Protein powder can be sifted or mixed with wet ingredients to avoid clumps. Variations include swapping nut butters, adding nuts or dried fruit, or using plant-based protein powder for vegan option.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake, protein bars, peanut butter, dark chocolate, healthy snacks, easy recipe, quick snack, high protein, fiber-rich