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Homemade protein bars ingredients including dates peanut butter oat flour protein powder arranged on marble counter

The Ultimate Homemade Protein Bars

No-bake protein bars with cookie dough texture, naturally sweetened with dates and honey, topped with dark chocolate and sea salt
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 185

Ingredients
  

  • 5 Medjool dates pitted and soft
  • 1 cup all-natural peanut butter drippy consistency
  • 1.5 cups ground oat flour or blend rolled oats until fine
  • 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup for vegan option
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder whey or plant-based
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1/4 cup water adjust as needed
  • 3/4 cup dark chocolate chips for topping
  • 2 tsp coconut oil for chocolate topping
  • coarse sea salt for sprinkling

Equipment

  • 9x9 or 9x13 inch baking dish
  • High-speed food processor
  • Parchment paper
  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Line a 9×9-inch or 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy removal.
  2. In a food processor, combine pitted Medjool dates, peanut butter, oat flour, honey, vanilla extract, protein powder, and salt. Process on high for 2-3 minutes, stopping to scrape sides as needed. Mixture will look crumbly at first.
  3. With processor running, add water by the tablespoon and continue processing until a cookie dough-like batter forms and dates have completely disappeared into the dough.
  4. Transfer dough to prepared pan. Use spatula or lightly greased hands to press dough down into a firm, even layer.
  5. For chocolate topping: Place chocolate chips and coconut oil in microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 15-second increments, stirring until melted and smooth.
  6. Pour melted chocolate over pressed bars and spread evenly with spatula. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
  7. Place in freezer for 30-60 minutes until chocolate has fully hardened. Use parchment overhangs to lift entire slab onto cutting board and cut into 16 bars with sharp knife.

Notes

Soft Medjool dates are essential - soak in hot water for 10-15 minutes if hard. Use drippy, natural peanut butter for best consistency. High-speed food processor is required for properly pulverizing dates. Store in refrigerator up to 7 days or freeze up to 3 months.