Description
These No-Bake Monster Cookie Protein Bars are a delicious, protein-packed snack perfect for athletes, busy parents, and anyone seeking a healthy, convenient treat. Made with rolled oats, protein powder, peanut butter, and honey, they offer a chewy, indulgent texture without any baking required. Optional chocolate chips add a touch of sweetness, making these bars a smart, guilt-free way to fuel your day.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1 ½ cups vanilla or plain protein powder
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup smooth and creamy peanut butter (or almond/sunflower seed butter)
- ½ cup honey or brown rice syrup
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to make it easy to lift out the bars later.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats and protein powder until they are thoroughly mixed.
- Heat Wet Ingredients: In a microwave-safe bowl, add the peanut butter and honey. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is melted and smooth.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the melted peanut butter and honey mixture into the dry oat and protein powder blend. Stir well until everything is fully incorporated. If using, fold in the mini chocolate chips or other mix-ins now.
- Press the Mixture into the Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and press down evenly and firmly with a spatula or your hands to create a compact layer.
- Refrigerate: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour to allow the bars to firm up.
- Slice: Once set, use a warm, sharp knife to slice the mixture into 20 bars. Warming the knife helps achieve clean cuts.
Notes
- For a vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup, but the bars may be slightly softer.
- Almond or sunflower seed butter can be used instead of peanut butter for different flavor profiles or allergy considerations.
- Pressing the mixture firmly in the pan ensures bars hold together well.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
- Warming the knife before slicing helps prevent crumbling and creates clean edges.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (approximately 36g)
- Calories: 148 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: protein bars, no-bake snack, healthy snack, homemade protein bars, peanut butter bars, energy bars, clean eating, easy recipe
