Why You’ll Love this Peanut Butter Oatmeal Protein Bars Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious snack, you’ll love this Peanut Butter Oatmeal Protein Bars recipe.
These bars are perfect for any time of the day, whether you’re fueling up before a workout or need a quick pick-me-up in the afternoon. The combination of peanut butter and oats provides a satisfying chew, while the protein keeps you feeling full and energized.
They’re easy to make, requiring just a few simple steps, and you can customize them with your favorite mix-ins. Plus, they store well, making them a convenient option for busy days.
Trust me, you won’t regret trying them!
Ingredients of Peanut Butter Oatmeal Protein Bars
When it comes to whipping up a batch of Peanut Butter Oatmeal Protein Bars, the magic truly lies in the ingredients. You want to make sure you have everything on hand before diving into this delightful adventure of flavors and textures. Not only are these bars packed with protein and wholesome goodness, but they also satisfy those snack cravings without making you feel guilty.
So, let’s gather our ingredients and get ready to create something delicious.
Here’s what you’ll need for the Peanut Butter Oatmeal Protein Bars:
- 100 g rolled oats
- 100 g whey protein powder
- 70 g raisins
- 50 g oat flour
- 100 g peanut butter
- 20 g honey
- 4 ounces unsweetened applesauce
Now, as you prepare to make these scrumptious bars, keep in mind a few considerations regarding the ingredients. For starters, feel free to swap out the raisins for other dried fruits like cranberries or apricots if you’re not a fan.
And if you’re looking to cut back on sugar, you might want to reduce the honey or use a sugar substitute. But remember, the honey does help to bind everything together, so play around with caution.
Also, if you have nut allergies, almond butter or sunflower seed butter can be a great alternative to peanut butter. Just imagine all the possibilities—your bars could be unique to you!
How to Make Peanut Butter Oatmeal Protein Bars
Making Peanut Butter Oatmeal Protein Bars is a fun and satisfying process, and trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be whipping them up in no time. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get started.
First things first, in a small mixing bowl, combine 100 g of rolled oats, 100 g of whey protein powder, 70 g of raisins, and 50 g of oat flour. This dry mix is like the foundation of your protein bar – it’s where all the goodness begins. Give it a good stir, making sure everything is well mixed. I often find myself daydreaming while mixing dry ingredients, wondering how I can make these bars even more epic. You know, the usual.
Now, let’s move on to the wet ingredients. In a medium-sized microwave-safe bowl, combine 100 g of peanut butter, 20 g of honey, and 4 ounces of unsweetened applesauce. Pop that bowl in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds. This is where the magic happens. The peanut butter gets all melty and glorious, which makes it easier to mix with the dry ingredients. Just keep an eye on it, because nobody wants a peanut butter eruption in the microwave.
Once it’s nice and gooey, mix the wet ingredients into the dry ones. It might take a little elbow grease, but that’s part of the fun. Form a ball with the mixture – it may feel a bit sticky, but that’s okay. Spread it out evenly into a lined 9×9 baking dish. I like to use wax paper for easy removal later.
Now, let it chill in the fridge for about 2-3 hours until it’s firm. Yes, patience is key here, but think about how amazing these bars will taste once they’re ready.
After the waiting game, it’s time for the grand reveal. Remove the mixture from the fridge, lift it out of the baking dish using the lining, and place it on a cutting board. Cut it into 10 pieces, and voila! You have your very own Peanut Butter Oatmeal Protein Bars.
They can be wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in the fridge for up to two weeks, or if you want to be extra organized, freeze them for 2-3 months. I often find myself sneaking a piece while I’m tossing them in the freezer – it’s hard to resist that deliciousness.
Peanut Butter Oatmeal Protein Bars Substitutions & Variations
While the original recipe for Peanut Butter Oatmeal Protein Bars is delicious as is, there’s plenty of room for creativity with substitutions and variations.
For instance, you can swap out peanut butter for almond or cashew butter if you prefer. Instead of honey, try maple syrup or agave for a vegan option.
If raisins aren’t your thing, dried cranberries or chopped nuts work wonderfully too. You can also replace some of the rolled oats with quinoa flakes for added texture.
Feel free to experiment with different protein powders or add in chocolate chips for a sweet twist. Enjoy customizing!
What to Serve with Peanut Butter Oatmeal Protein Bars
To complement my Peanut Butter Oatmeal Protein Bars, I love serving them with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt. Sliced bananas or berries add a revitalizing touch, while Greek yogurt provides an extra protein boost. Sometimes, I’ll drizzle a bit of honey over the yogurt for added sweetness.
For a heartier option, I pair the bars with a smoothie packed with spinach, banana, and almond milk. This combo not only satisfies my hunger but also keeps my energy levels up throughout the day. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a nutritious snack or breakfast on the go!
Additional Tips & Notes
Before diving into making your Peanut Butter Oatmeal Protein Bars, I recommend gathering all your ingredients and tools to streamline the process.
Make sure to line your baking dish properly; I prefer using wax paper for easy removal. If you want a little extra sweetness, feel free to add more honey or a splash of vanilla extract.
For added texture, consider throwing in some chopped nuts or seeds. Once they’re firm, cut them into even pieces for uniform snacks.