Protein Bars

I wanted to make healthy treats to deliver to some of my favorite brand contacts in town, so I found this awesome Five-Ingredient Protein Bars recipe from Chew Out Loud. Amy from COL says…

These 5-ingredient Protein Bars are super easy, packed with good nutrition, and perfect for breakfast or snack on the run. Plus, they are a no-bake recipe! This one’s a keeper.

RATING = GREAT! COULDN’T GET EASIER. TASTY AND DENSE NUTRITION.

Notes:

1) Yields pan 8×8 inches.
2) Measure protein powder with stand cups – not the scoop that comes inside the tub.  🙂
3) I topped with dark chocolate chips instead of a drizzle.
4) Mine did turn out a little gooey. May add unsweetened coconut shavings for solidifying next time.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup milk (I use whole)
• 1 cup natural chunky peanut butter
• 2-3 T honey, plus more to taste
• 1 1/4 cups vanilla (or chocolate) whey protein powder
• 2 cups old fashioned rolled oats (uncooked)
• Optional: melted dark chocolate for drizzling

Steps:

1. In a medium heavy pot, combine milk, peanut butter and desired amount of honey over low heat. Stir just until all ingredients are well combined and warmed through.
2. Add protein powder and oats. Stir to combine well. (If mixture is too thick to stir, simply add a bit more milk.)
3. Lightly grease an 8×8 pan. Press mixture evenly into pan, using enough pressure to compress mixture into desired bar thickness.
4. Allow bars to cool completely.
5. Cut into squares. If desired, drizzle with melted chocolate and let cool. Wrap in airtight container and store at moderate room temp for up to a week.