These homemade oatmeal protein bars contain 8 grams of natural protein for each serving without needing protein powder or added sugar! Crafted with only 6 straightforward ingredients, they make an ideal healthy snack that can be prepared in minutes and stored for weeks.
Truth be told: I have a fondness for my favorite packaged protein bars. However, after scrutinizing the ingredients one day, I resolved to create a homemade alternative! Following numerous recipe trials, I arrived at this version, and I’m completely enamored.
These homemade oatmeal protein bars offer approximately 8 grams of protein per serving with no protein powder involved. The protein is derived naturally from almond flour and roasted peanuts, while Medjool dates provide sweetness. After exploring countless variations, this recipe has become my staple! I appreciate that the bars have the flavor of oatmeal cookies but also deliver real nutritional benefits. Alex and I strive to prepare a batch of these as healthy snacks each week—even our kids prefer these over store-bought granola bars!
Ingredients that make an impact
For this recipe, I aimed to devise a healthier copy of my favorite bars, omitting the chocolate chips. Honestly, one of my pet peeves is that many protein bars are packed with chocolate chips when I merely want a snack without excessive sugar. (I prefer to save my chocolate indulgence for dessert in the form of a dark chocolate bar!)
After some adjustments, I discovered how to recreate my beloved energy bar at home. You only require six ingredients:
– Old-fashioned rolled oats serve as the foundation for these bars, contributing both fiber and complex carbs.
– Almond flour is one of my secret ingredients for incorporating protein without relying on powder.
– Roasted peanuts provide most of the protein and a delightful nutty flavor (akin to my store-bought bars). I prefer roasted peanuts for optimal flavor; both salted and unsalted peanuts function similarly.
– Medjool dates act as nature’s candy and serve as the sole sweetener in this recipe. They possess the perfect soft, sticky consistency that holds everything together: avoid using other types of dates! Deglet noor will not suffice. Ensure your dates are fresh and pliable – if they are dried, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before using.
– Vanilla extract and salt may seem trivial, but they’re crucial for flavor!
My advice for the ideal protein bars
I’ve prepared these bars numerous times and discovered a few secrets that make a significant difference:
– Inspect your dates before you begin. Fresh Medjool dates should be soft and sticky. If yours are dried out, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes and drain before using. This guarantees they’ll blend smoothly and effectively bind the mixture.
– When processing the dough, the mixture should maintain its shape when squeezed, without being wet or sticky. The water content in the recipe can differ based on the moisture level of your dates. Start with 2 tablespoons and gradually add more if necessary.
– Employ a small glass or measuring cup to firmly press and roll the mixture in the pan. This creates a smooth, even layer that cuts neatly into bars.
About batch size
This recipe yields 8 square bars in a 9″ loaf pan. If you wish to double the recipe, you can make a double batch in a 9 x 9″ square pan.
Storage and make-ahead suggestions
Store these oatmeal protein bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. (Naturally, they seldom last that long in my home!)
For meal prepping, it’s a cinch to create a double batch. These bars can also be frozen for up to 3 months. I wrap them individually in parchment paper and then store them in a freezer bag. They thaw swiftly at room temperature, or you can enjoy them directly from the freezer for a firmer texture.
Additional homemade snack recipes to consider
These oatmeal protein bars represent a fantastic easy snack option! If you enjoy this, you’ll want to try my peanut butter oatmeal balls or no-bake energy bites for a quick and fun treat. My oatmeal bars are another popular family choice, and my homemade granola bars provide similar convenience with various flavors.
For on-the-go breakfasts, my magic breakfast cookies also serve well for snacking. And if you’re searching for more uses of Medjool dates, I have 15 simple Medjool date recipes that highlight this amazing natural sweetener.
Dietary information
These oatmeal protein bars are vegetarian, vegan, plant-based, dairy-free, and gluten-free.
Oatmeal Protein Bars
These homemade oatmeal protein bars contain 8 grams of natural protein for each serving without needing protein powder or added sugar! Crafted with only 6 straightforward ingredients, they make an ideal healthy snack that can be prepared in minutes and stored for weeks.
Author: Sonja Overhiser
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0