Craving cookie dough but want a healthier option? These Healthy Cookie Dough Protein Bars are your answer. You’ll love this easy-to-make, protein-packed treat that satisfies your sweet tooth without the guilt.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Oat Flour: You can make your own by blending rolled oats until fine.
- Protein Powder: Vanilla or unflavored works best. Use your favorite plant-based or whey protein.
- Nut Butter: Creamy peanut butter or almond butter.
- Maple Syrup: Honey or agave nectar are good alternatives.
- Chocolate Chips: Mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup oat flour
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup creamy nut butter
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 10 Healthy Bars
- Calories per serving: Approximately 180 kcal
- Tools Needed: Mixing bowl, 8×8 inch baking dish, parchment paper.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the oat flour, protein powder, and salt. Whisk them together until they are well combined. This ensures an even distribution of flavors in your Healthy Bars.
2. Add Wet Ingredients
Add the maple syrup, nut butter, almond milk, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Mix everything thoroughly until a thick, cookie-dough-like consistency forms. If it’s too dry, add a tiny bit more milk; if too wet, a sprinkle more oat flour.
3. Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. You want every bite of your Healthy Cookie Dough Protein Bars to have that delicious chocolatey crunch.
4. Press into Pan
Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. Press the cookie dough mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan. Make sure it’s packed tightly to form solid Healthy Bars.
5. Chill and Cut
Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 5 minutes to allow the bars to firm up. Once chilled, lift the parchment paper to remove the slab and cut it into 10 even Healthy Bars.
Variation Ideas:
- Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of nut butter.
- Extra Crunch: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts.
- Spiced: Include a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle over the top after chilling.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Healthy Cookie Dough Protein Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze them for up to two months, thawing them at room temperature for a quick snack.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I use a different kind of protein powder? Yes, you can use any vanilla or unflavored protein powder you prefer.
- Are these Healthy Bars gluten-free? If you use certified gluten-free oat flour and protein powder, yes, they will be gluten-free.
- How can I make these vegan? Ensure your protein powder is plant-based and use a dairy-free milk alternative and chocolate chips.
- Can I skip the chilling step? The chilling step helps the Healthy Bars set and makes them easier to cut, so it is recommended.
- What if my dough is too crumbly? Add a small amount of extra almond milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
- Can I bake these bars? No, these are no-bake Healthy Bars designed to be eaten as is after chilling.