I don’t know about you, but paying $4 for a single protein bar puts a bit of a strain on my wallet. Especially when I like eating them on a regular basis.
So I came across an article on eHow.com, on how to make your own protein bars. It just gave a general outline, so I printed it out and got to work. I tried several different methods and many different ingredients.
The main thing I found is that the oats you use make all the difference. And it really comes down to personal preference.
If you like a harder, chewier bar, use old fashioned oats (not the quick cook kind). But if you use these, be prepared to let the bars sit for a few days in an air tight container before you eat them. Otherwise, it’s very similar to chewing hay (not that I chew a lot of hay, mind you, it’s just the image that came to mind when I tried these bars with the rougher oats).
If you like a softer bar (which I do), then use quick cook oats (the 3 minute kind).
Other than that, the recipe is pretty basic and very easy.
Clean Eating Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Protein Bars
(Makes 15 bars)
Ingredients:
- 2 cups oats – roasted in the oven without oil for 10-15 minutes
- 1 cup peanut butter (no sugar added)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup apple sauce (unsweetened)
- 2 tablespoons grain sweetened chocolate chips
- 1 cup whey protein powder (unflavored or vanilla)
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl. (I ended up having to knead it by hand. The dough was pretty thick)
- IMPORTANT: BE SURE your oats have cooled down completely from being roasted or they will totally melt your chocolate chips.
- Spread out the batter on a cookie sheet or other baking dish (I used a half sheet here).
- Bake at 350 for 15-20 minutes, or until the bars are a nice golden brown color.
- Cut and allow to cool. Store in a Ziploc bag or Tupperware container.
Nutritional Content:
(Data is for 1 bar)
Calories: 311
Total Fat: 12 gm
Saturated Fats: 2 gm
Trans Fats: 0 gm
Cholesterol: 0 gm
Sodium: 4 mg
Carbohydrates: 29 gm
Dietary fiber: 5 gm
Sugars: 11 gm
Protein: 21 gm
Estimated Glycemic Load: 14
Please Note: Nutritional information estimated at Nutritiondata.com. Data may not be accurate and is subject to the availability of specific foods in their database. Where one ingredient is not listed, substitutions must be used. Therefore, you should not refer to this data as being exact. It’s more of a ballpark figure. The Gracious Pantry does not take responsibility for the inadequacies of the nutrition calculator used. This data is provided as a courtesy and general reference only. It is not exact.
Oh, yum!
What brand of protein powder do you use? I think that is the only thing I need to buy in order to make these.
This recipe sounds delicious and I will give it a try! I just tried to make a clean chocolate chip protein bar a couple of weeks ago and what a total mess I made. I actually ended up wasting all of the ingredients I used PLUS a brand new baking pan because once baked, the “bars” were as hard.as.a.rock. So hard, in fact, I couldn’t even cut the mixture into bars.
Thanks for posting this because I still have a hankering for those bars!
Sarah –
I really don’t know the brand. I buy it in the bulk section of my health food store. It’s just plain whey with nothing else added.
Jennifer –
Thanks for stopping by! Let me know how you like these.
They have a gentle flavor, nothing that will shout “cookie” or “dessert” at you like some protein bars. But they are good!
Just getting started on my journey to a clean eating lifestyle. Tonight I tried the bars. Delicious! I’m so glad I found this site. I know it will be so valuable to me. Thank you!
Kelly – You’re very welcome! I’m so glad you enjoyed them!
Welcome to clean eating!
What are grain sweetened chocolate chips? Can you get those at a regular grocery store? I want to make some NOW!!! lol…maybe i can substitute with raisins instead until I can get some chocolate chips. Do you think that would work?
If your local health food store does not carry them, you can get them online here: http://www.worldpantry.com/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/ProductDisplay?prmenbr=172832&prrfnbr=213701.
But yes, you can substitute raisins as well. In fact, that would probably be pretty yummy!
Thanks so much for the recipe. I did a batch with raisins and another batch with blueberries. They turned out great.
Fantastic! I never would have thought to use blueberries. Maybe I’ll try that next time. So glad you enjoyed the recipe!
Hi Tiffany ~ I noticed on several of your recipes you use grain sweetened chocolate chips ~ what is the difference between these and normal chocolate chips? Thanks so much ~ Dawn =o)
Dawn – Regular chocolate chips use regular processed sugar. Grain sweetened chips are sweetened with grains. Hope that helps.
Hi Tiffany!
I am thinking of making these tomorrow – they look really tasty.
This is probably the dumbest question, but how exactly do you roast oats? On what temperature? And do you have to flip them while cooking? Thank you!
Brittney – Not a dumb question at all!
Use a cookie sheet with edges so your nuts don’t roll off. Put the nuts on the sheet (no oil or grease of any kind), and put them in the oven for about 10 minutes at about 350 degrees F.
Some people like to do this at a lower temperature (300 or 325). It all depends on your oven.
Just make sure you oven is really well pre-heated.
Hope you enjoy them!
Made these today with almond butter, honey, and flaxseed instead of chia seeds. OMG… to die for! These are plenty sweet and perfect on-the-go snacks for a busy student.
Brittney – Glad you enjoyed them!
I wasn’t able to find the grain-sweetened chocolate chips in my store but they did have carob chips. Would that be a good substitute? I wasn’t quite sure so I bought dried apples and thought I would make my first batch with that.
Ruby – If you like carob, it’s a fantastic replacement for chocolate. I just don’t care for it, so I never use it. But yes, definitely give it a try if you like it!
I just made these protein bars and they are FANTASTIC!!! I am starting my clean eating journey and this just made my day! Keep the wonderful recipes comming! You rock!
Lindsey – So glad you enjoyed them!
Hi tiffany, I love your recipes and since you’re so clever was wondering if you had any good , clean crock pot recipes (if such a thing exists!)
Dominique – Most of the recipes in my “Soups and Stews” category can be made in a crock pot. But I am also working on recipes specifically for the crock pot. Hope to have them posted soon.
These are really great and so easy to make. I used the honey, and also minced dried apricots instead of chocolate chips. Yum!
These are absolutely my favorite protein bar! I make these all the time for an easy grab-and-go meal and the extras freeze well. I don’t ever have quick cooking oats since I buy old fashion oats in bulk, but 1/4 cup of water added to the recipe keeps these from being dry! L-O-V-E these!
Jill – Fantastic! I’ll have to try them with dried fruit. That’s a wonderful idea!
DeeAnna – Thank you! Thanks for letting me know about the oats. I haven’t had a chance to experiment with them yet. But good to know it can be done!
YUM! Another total win! I used cacao nibs and added a little dried fruit (which I would chop finer the next time I make these). Your recipes rock!
MK – Thanks! I’m so happy you enjoyed it! I’ve heard from folks who have done all kinds of additions to this. You can make them with just about anything and they’ll turn out yummy. Enjoy!
Here is my protein bars. May not be completely clean eating but very good.
Peanut Butter Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Thoroughly Cream:
1 Cup Butter or 2 sticks
½ Cup Peanut Butter really a whole small jar.
1 or 1 ½ cup honey. 2 cups better
Beat In:
3 Eggs 1 teaspoon nutmeg 2 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Vanilla 1 teaspoon ginger
Add:
1 Cup All-Purpose Unbleached Flour Spelt flour works
½ Cup Whey Protein powder.
1 teaspoon Soda
(If omitting salted nuts, add 1 teaspoon Salt)
Stir/Press In:
3 Cups Quick-cooking Rolled Oats Can add some steel cut oats.
½ – ¾ C Salted Planters Dry Roasted Peanuts (opt.) Pecans good, raisons ok You might like chopped dried fruit also.
Mixture will be very thick.
Choose Drop, Refrigerate, or Freeze Method –
- Drop by tablespoons onto parchment lined cookie sheet. Bake 15 minutes or until just golden brown. Remove from oven. Let set a minute or two before removing from cookie sheet.
- Refrigerate – On wax paper, form dough into rolls 1 to 1½” in diameter. Wrap each roll in waxed paper. Chill thoroughly. Slice about 1/4″ thick with sharp knife. Bake on parchment lined cookie sheet about 17 minutes. Remove from oven. Let set a minute or two before removing from cookie sheet.
- Freeze – Store rolls in freezer in freezer bag. As needed, slice about 1/4″ thick with sharp knife. Bake on parchment lined cookie sheet about 20-22 minutes. Remove from oven. Let set a minute or two before removing from cookie sheet.
Makes about 5 dozen. You can bake some as soon as they’re mixed (drop method), and refrigerate the rest in rolls if you don’t have time to bake them all at once. If you want to keep the dough ready longer, store the rolls in the freezer and bake as wanted. If storing in refrigerator or freezer, you better hide it- the dough tastes good too!
____________________________
1.
Harold – Wow! Those sound yummy! Thanks for sharing your recipe!
Hi there.. I would love to try this recipe.. any thoughts on a substitution for peanut butter? I am allergic..Do you think I could use sunflower butter instead? Thanks so much, Shannon
Shannon – I believe most nut butters would work.
Could I use chocolate-flavored whey protein powder?
Brooke – You could, but it will change the flavor. I have to say though, more chocolate is never a bad thing!
Made these today with quick cook steel cut oats, opted for honey, subbed dried apples for the chocolate chips and flax seeds for the chia. Pretty darn tasty although the apples don’t really come through. Will have to try with the chocolate next
Brent – Fantastic! I like making substitutions too. Keeps it interesting!
Love ALL of your recipes so far! Even my boys (4 and 18 months) like these bars, which gives me great peace of mind! One question though. Under the nutrition info it says 21 grams protein, but the pumpkin spice only has 13. What is the big protein difference? Thanks so much for all that you do!!!
Rayna – that is an excellent question. I’ve never compared the two!! Let me look into it after school today and I’ll get back to you.
I made these over the weekend and they were AWESOME! I used all natural chunky peanut butter (super delicious) and substituted chocolate whey protein and flaxseeds. They turned out fantastic. Thanks for the sharing the recipe.
Gloria – Fabulous! I’m so happy you enjoyed these!
very good!! thanks Tiffany
Trude – You’re welcome!
Hi Tiffany, I sure hope you can help. These granola bars look great and I think I will make them for an “at home” snack as my kids school is nut free. Granola bars can be so unhealthy and of course my kids want to eat them all the time. Have you made, can you make or do you know of a recipe that is clean and nut free. Any suggestions??? Also, I don’t know how comfortable I feel giving my little ones protein powder, is this safe? Hope you can help with my little granola bar challenge.
Shari – You should talk to you doctor or a dietitian about the protein powder for your child. I used 100% whey, so I had no problems giving it to Mini Chef. But every child is different. I’m working on a granola bar recipe, but have not finished it yet. I will make it a point to do a no-nut version. But for right now, I don’t have anything yet. I’m so sorry!
I have a couple of questions. First, how can I cut down the fat of these? I would like them to be around 6 grams of fat a piece. I will not include the seeds, and if I cut down the peanut butter, will I need to compensate for that moisture loss in some way? maybe through more applesauce or egg whites?
I will also be using 1/2 cup raisins instead of choc chips. Is there anything I need to to since 1/2 of raisins is substantially more volume than 2 tbs of chop chips?
Thanks!
Shaun – You could try cutting the peanut butter in half and using apple sauce instead. You might end up with a different texture though. The raisins shouldn’t be an issue. Use as many as you want. Let me know how they turn out!
Hi Tiffany! I don’t use most protein powders because of food allergies, do you think oat flour would be a decent substitute for the whey powder? I’m looking to make something more granola bar-ish to eat after my morning workouts on my way to work. I already make a high-protein smoothie, so I need a grain to go with it!
Court – You could try it. Maybe do 1/2 cup more flour and 1/2 cup more oats. Let me know how they turn out! P.S. – I’m working on a granola bar recipe. Hope to have it soon!
Ok, the verdict is in! I made them with the oat flour and they came out great! They remind me of an oatmeal peanut butter cookie, but they are healthy! They haven’t cooled just yet, but they are awesome!
Court – FABULOUS!!! I’m so happy that worked out!
these are sooo good!!! my son loved them, they taste like your being bad!! LOL
Michele – Yes they do! So glad you and your son enjoyed them!
These are great! Just tried them last night and hubby loves them! My kids think they are cookie bars. I never heard of chia seeds before this. Very interesting. I’d love to know more about the health benefits of them. Thanks for your work. The other protein bars I used to make took like 100 ingredients and a lot of steps. this one was easy and delicious.
Jenny – Fabulous!! Here’s more info on chia seeds if you’re interested: http://www.thegraciouspantry.com/clean-eating-ingredient-chia-seeds/. Truly a fabulous addition to any eating plan!
Just made these and am waiting on them to finish cooling, they smell delicious! I’m wondering how to cut them though so I’m getting the proper serving size…. how many bars should this recipe make? 12? 16?
Kelly – They made 15 bars. 2 cuts lengthwise, and 4 cuts widthwise.
Okay, crazy question here!! Forgot to get the whey protein powder. I saw above where you said 1/2cup flour and 1/2 cup more oats. All I have is the Whole Wheat Flour Pastry, will that work? Still converting everything out in our pantry, so this is all I have
…..If that won’t work, I’ll have to plan another trip to the store!!
Amy – I would add extra flour, but add a little at a time to be sure the mixture doesn’t get too dry.
These look really yummy and a nice alternative to the kiddie bars I buy.
Are you using rolled oats or the quick cooking kind?
ASM – I believe they were the 3 minute type.
Finally got around to making these tonight (after seeing them months ago on twitter) and they are so AWESOME!!!!
Dominica – Fabulous!!! I’m so happy you enjoyed them!
Hello, My name is Angel and Im new to your blog and clean eating. My husband, daughter and I are processed food junkies and I’m sick of it! Thankfully Im not sick FROM it …Yet. I love your blog, I’m making a grocery list right now, and your blog is like my food bible. Anyway, for this recipe would it be okay to use dried raspberries or strawberries, because I don’t like chocolate. ( I know everyone just did a double take at the screen when I said that, lol)
Angelonna – I know several people here who don’t like chocolate, so you’re not alone. Yes, you can sub with dried fruit, just be sure it has no added sugar. Enjoy!
Hey Tiffany! Quick question – I put the recipe into livestrong.com so I could log my food, and it turned out saying it was more like 10g of protein instead of 20g. I’m wondering if I measured my protein powder differently? How many scoops did you use, and was it 1 cup weighed on a scale (8 oz by weight) or 1 cup packed? Thanks so much!!
Kathy – One measured cup. Not weighed. Could be the difference in our protein powders.
Loved these! I’m not a big sweet fan and these were perfect for me. Used raw cacao instead of chocolate chips and added Mila (chia seeds) + hemp hearts instead of a full cup of protein powder for a real health boost. One question, do these freeze well? Thank you for sharing!
Leeanne – Sounds yummy! I’ve never frozen them, but yes, I’m sure they would freeze just fine!
Hey girl! I made these and they were delicious but very crumbly! (honestly they all pretty much fell apart. sad face) I used Vegan protein powder, do you think that could have something to do with it? I am just learning how to cook so I have no idea what I could have done!
Naomi – Hmmm. Something definitely went wrong there. It could have been the protein powder, but I’d be more willing to bet that you measured something incorrectly. Most likely the agave, peanut butter or apple sauce. Also, be sure you are using regular peanut butter. Not one of the low fat varieties.
Tiffany, I’m dying to make these, but I’ve never used whey or soy protein powder before. When I looked at the ingredients, it looked like all chemicals. Is that the kind you use?
AS FAR AS PROTEIN, for anyone interested, I love Garden of Life Raw Protein. It has 17 gms protein, 1 g fat, and is vegan, organic, gluten free, dairy free, etc… I use it for all my protein needs since i cannot tolerate whey. I did try it in this recipe and the bars stayed together and tasted great! You can get the protein on Amazon. Best to you! Hugs…
Bette – Ask the clerks for 100% whey. If there’s extra stuff, it’s usually all garbage you don’t want anyway.
Kristin – Thanks!
Thanks! So the protein powder I saw at Walmart must be something totally different because I couldn’t pronounce one ingredient! I’ll check out my health food store. I think it all went wrong when I tried to get a bargain at Walmart….
Bette – You’d be surprised how affordable 100% whey can be!
I was looking at protein powder for bodybuilders!!!
Okay, not to beat a dead horse…but, the protein powder at the health food store was the same stuff at Walmart – tons of ingreds. I couldn’t pronounce plus fructose. That scares me, 100 % whey was 40.00! That’s out of my budget, so I opted for Brown Rice Protein powder for 17.00. I’m cheap and healthy!
Bette – Wow!!! $40!!!! I can’t believe that! I get it dirt cheap here at my local health food store. I wonder what the difference is. Hmmm… Well, I’m glad you found a good middle ground!
Are you sick of me yet??? What brand do you use? Then, I’ll sail off into the sunset…until my next question!
Bette – I don’t use protein powders any longer. But when I did, I bought it in bulk at my local health food store. No idea what the brand name was sorry!
Love your recipe! I tweeked it a lil to fit my needs.. well to not have to make a trip to the store added more applesauce and no agave! Turned out great! Thanks for sharing so many recipes! I plan on trying as many as I can!
Dolce – Fabulous!!! It’s good to know it can be done with just apple sauce. I might have to try that myself!
The Cinnamon Choc Chip bars sounded so good I had to try them. I made a few minor substitutions. I used soy nut butter for peanut butter since I have a sensitivity and used pecans instead of choc chips and chia seeds. They tasted okay, but very crumbly. They wouldn’t hold their shape at all. Suggestions about what may have changed them? I would like to post the recipe on my own blog http://www.beliefnet.com/beyondgorgeous, if I may, but need a better batch than this! Thanks.
Sg – Baking is all about ratios. When the ratios are off, you end up with something that doesn’t work right. So my best guess here would be that the nut butter you used was lower in fat, the nuts didn’t provide the moisture that the choc chips did and removing the chia seeds also removed a portion of the moisture as they turn into a gel-like substance when they get wet.
Try adding apple sauce or bananas for moisture and maybe a little oil for fat content. You’ll have to play around with it to get the ratios correct. Good luck!
Sigh. This is not up my alley! I see that my subs probably did me in. Would you mind if I use your recipe (without my substitutions) in my blog, if I give you credit?
Sg – Sure, I just ask that you link to my site and that you do not use my photos. Hope your next batch goes better!
Thanks — but Beliefnet doesn’t like us linking to folks outside the Beliefnet community, so guess my readers will have to miss out on this recipe. I appreciate your quick response and I will be following your blog.
Sg – Thanks!
Do I have to use chia seeds? Can I just leave them out?
Lisa – No, you don’t have to use them. You can leave them out.
Is there an ingredient I can replace for the protein powder? Does the protein powder act as a binder? I’m currently dairy-free, so whey protein doesn’t work for me.
Mary – I would just leave it out. Don’t worry about replacing it. If you really want something, you could try a vegan protein powder like hemp. But it’s not necessary.
What is the shelf (fridge) life of these bars…15 bars would last me over 15 days…would they still be good? Can I freeze them?
Brandy – I would freeze half the batch then. Yes, they freeze fine. Enjoy!
2nd Man’s Wife – That’s wonderful!! Great tip too!
Hi I was wondering if there is something else I can use instead of Peanut butter! We are allergic to nuts!
Holly – For this recipe, it would be tough to sub anything. Do your allergies apply to seeds as well? You could try a sunflower butter or sesame seed paste. Just a thought.
Where do I find chai seeds?
Cannot wait to try these with my kids!
Static – You will need to call around to local health food stores to find one in your area that carries them. Or, you can order them online from Amazon.
Colormeroo – Let me know how they like them!
My family loves these bars. I do have a question though about the protein content. I used two scoops of protein powder instead of one, and I still only came up with about 9 grams of protein per bar. My protein powder has 26 grams of protein per scoop. What type of peanut butter are you using, because I can’t see how your bars have 21 grams of protein in them. Am I missing something?
Cdgoldilocks – Excellent question. I’ll have to check and get back to you. Could be a difference in the protein powders, but I’ll double check.
Melissa – Sure! They’ll just be more chocolaty. Never a bad thing in my book!
I figured it out I think. The protein powders come with their own scoop. I was only using one of those “cups”. I am guessing you mean a standard measuring cup of powder.
Cd – Yup! Glad you figured it out. Enjoy!
Hanna – You got it! I’ll work on it! I was thinking of doing some fiber muffins as well.
These are so yummy! They turned out great; I love the texture and the chocolate chips in them are a nice treat. Thank you- I’ve been looking for a clean, tasty bar with a good consistency. Btw, I LOVE this site and so glad I found it!
Heather – I’m glad you enjoyed them! Welcome to my site!
Arlene – They are chips sweetened with grain sweetener as apposed to the regular corn syrup and other not-so-nice sweeteners. You can locate a store that carries them through their web site: http://www.SunSpire.com.
hi there
tonight I made your pizza dough and chocolate chip cookies and they were both so yummy! I got all the ingredients to make these protein bars as well, but by accident got chia powder instead of the seeds. Will the powder work in this recipe?
Erica – I’ve never used it, so I can’t say. You can omit it or use a different type of seed though if you have them.
This is going to be my Halloween treat
))
Thanks for the recipe !
Psuwife – Enjoy!
I have started making my family these bars and I now have to make double batches (I am feeding 2 -growing!-boys and myself!) a batch only last about 3 days at longest! I was going to say I completely omit the honey and add just an ounce or two extra of applesauce and they taste great. Might be good for people really trying to watch their sugar intake! Thank you for these!!
Liz4fitness – That’s fantastic! I want to work on a new bar recipe, so maybe I’ll use your tip. Thanks!
LuLu – Sounds yummy!
QK – Fabulous! I’m happy you enjoyed them!
Just finished making these and I could not wait to come thank you for the recipe! They are delicious! Very quick to make and so inexpensive compared to store bought bars. My only issue was spreading the mix into my pan; it was very sticky! I ended up spraying my hand with olive oil and flattening it out
Thanks!
Natasha – Yes, it is sticky. But what a great way to handle the problem! I’ll try that myself next time. Glad you enjoyed them!
Shel – Cranberries would be yummy!
Jennifer – Sure can!
Janick – Wonderful! I’m so happy he enjoyed them!
ICharier – The nut butter is the “glue” in this recipe. Can she have other nut butters? Or do you avoid all nuts due to cross contamination?
She has to avoid all nuts as she has a severe allergic reaction to all nuts . She can eat a product called “wow butter” that is made to look and taste like peanut butter but is actually a soya butter. So you think that would work in this recipe?
I’m not sure because I’ve never tried it. However, if it really is like peanut butter, chances are good.
Alicia – Wonderful!! I love it when that happens!
Marlena – Protein powders are meant to be a supplement. I get enough protein in my normal eating plan and extra just gets converted to fat in the body which would defeat the purpose. I still occasionally use hemp protein powder in my smoothies, but only if I don’t have a hard boiled egg or some other form of protein to eat with it.
I just found your blog and love it! We just started clean eating in our home. Where do you find grain sweetened chocolate chips? Whole Foods? Thanks!
Carrie – Yes, or at least I did. They recently discontinued it and now I get them in bulk at a smaller health food store in my area. Check out the SunSpire.com web site to see where they sell in your area.
Shannonkuharik – Either way.
If I used chocolate hey powder would they turn ok? Or be too chcolatey? It’s what I just happened to have on hand…
Becca – I think it would be just fine. Enjoy!
Jenn – Thank you so much! You’re doing great!
Rita – Those sound like great adjustments! Thanks! I haven’t tried them with raw oats, so I’m not sure how to answer your question. But maybe I’ll try that next.
I love this recipe
Jesmsain – Fabulous!
Mamaof4 – Fantastic!
Julie – Fantastic! Nice work on the subs!
Heidi – I love that!!
Ellen – I got mine in the bulk section of Whole Foods. But if you don’t have one in your area, call around for any stores that carry 100% whey protein powder.
+1…i tried these with unflavoured pea protein and no apple sauce or cinamon (didn’t have those)…i had to add a cup of water, though, to make mixture a little sticky and they turned out DELICIOUS…nice and moist, just beautiful
Tomas – That’s wonderful! Glad you enjoyed them!
I made these, but put more ch. chips in b/c 2 tbs didn’t seem like enough.. the kids loved them! Asked me to make them again! Thanks!
Brandie – Fantastic!
Abby – As it says in the recipes, this makes 15 bars. But feel free to cut them smaller if you like. They are very filling.
This might sound totally silly – but is this a snack by itself or should it be paired with a fruit/veg?
Guest – Veg is always good, but not necessary as you have both carbs and protein here.
They were surprisingly tasty, a winner in my house, thank you!
Cassie – Glad you enjoyed them!
Gonna try these today! A little feedback – I clicked print friendly and got four pages of text and color photographs when all I wanted was the recipe – seems like a waste of paper and ink – I’m not angry! Just wondering if the print feature can be simplified. Thanks for your awesome site and recipes!
Kazkid – Yes, you should be able to click on any of those before printing things and they will disappear.
I made the cinnamon granola bars today and they are delicious! I can’t wait to try the pumpkin granola bars next.
Patti – Glad you enjoyed them!
AFO – Be my guest!
Remember, this is “good fat”. Don’t be afraid of it! It’s the fat inside of french fries we want to avoid. Using a natural peanut or almond butter ensures very low or no sugar and quality fats! Hope this helped! GBY!
Leslie – Wonderful! Thanks for trying my recipe!
Laurenaimee – That’s wonderful! Good luck on the race!
Awesome! Love these! I too used flax seeds, and I also used bittersweet chocolate chips (they were all I had plus I like less sweetness). these are yummy, yummy, yummy!
Jenny – Glad you liked them!
Marissa – The only chia seeds I use are the black seeds. Not sure I’ve ever seen the other varieties.
How many bars does this recipe make….as will be needed to determine the amount of calories per bar. (the info above doesn’t mention how many servings there are) I am pretty sure I cut mine small.
Also, I used 1 cup of hemp protein powder in place of the whey and my consistency/texture was a little different than your pictures show, but the taste turned out good. I am trying to use more plant based proteins.
Oh…and I used ground flax seeds in place of chia seeds as well!
Thanks!
I just recently found your site and this is the first recipe I have tried. It is excellent! Thank you for all the work you have put into these recipes and the site. It is making the transition to clean eating much easier for me and my family.
kylatom – Wonderful!! I’m so happy you enjoyed them!
Ladyfinger – The number of bars is right under the title of the recipe in the gray area. It makes 15 bars.
I used chocolate whey protein and they taste great!
I have a massive container of chocolate protein powder and was wondering if it would work in this recipe. I’m happy to hear that you tried it and it works!
Aj – It’s right above the first photo. 350 F.
So omitting the protein powder won’t change the consistency of the bars too much? Have you made them without protein powder?
Charity – I have not, but it shouldn’t make a difference. You can always add a little of another dry ingredient of your choice.
Hope you enjoy it!
Hope you enjoy it!
This recipe looks really good. However, I’m looking for a protein bar recipe without soy and milk products. What could I substitute for the whey protein? Also, I’m sensitive to oats, is there anything else I could use? thanks.
RABB – You can use any protein powder. The oats, I’m not so sure about. I’d have to try to create a recipe without.
Allisonmae – It says just below the title. 15 bars.
Vicki – For this, you definitely want plain, quick oats.
Skittlez – You can. They are not clean, but if the cocoa content is at least 70-80% you should be okay.
Trish – They should be fine. I wouldn’t freeze them for any longer than 3 months though.
Organic doesn’t necessarily mean clean. They could have organic white sugar which is still refined sugar (not clean)
Made these and wanted to cut down on the fat and increase protein. Instead of 1 cup all natural peanut butter I used 1/2 cup peanut butter, 1/2 cup PB2, and 1/3 cup fat free greek yogurt. Result was more protein and less fat and tasted great! Thanks!
Tobar8 – That’s great! However, I don’t believe PB2 is clean, is it? I thought it had sugar added?
Kim – I honestly don’t know. The peanut butter is the glue in this. Can she have sun butter?
What about carob chips?
What about carob chips?
Angela – As with any product like that, you have to read the ingredient list. But I’m sure they would work fine if you can find a clean brand.
Angela – As with any product like that, you have to read the ingredient list. But I’m sure they would work fine if you can find a clean brand.
Great and yummy recipe. Made it and my husband and I LOVE It. Thanks so much, I am following all of your recipes.
Glad you enjoyed them!
I am about a month in, and still haven’t made my trips to those, but am waiting with so much excitement! I think I will be making these for my hubby tonight
What is it you want to substitute?
What is it you want to substitute?
What are grain sweetened chocolate chips?
Check out http://www.SunSpire.com. They make them. They aren’t completely clean, but closer than any regular chips I’ve found.
Super yummy! I made them today. Thank you. Just wondering what protien powder you used? It says 21 grams of protein per bar, but when I did the calculation it only came to 10 grams per bar.(15 bars) I used 1 cup, which was 4 scoops at 25 grams per scoop.
Did I miss something?? Thank you!
Alex – It really depends on the powder you use. I used 100% whey.
Awesome!! Glad you liked them!
Alex – As I say in my disclaimer, the data is not exact. The web site I used for the data sometimes has to use substitutes to come close to what the correct data is. So there is a chance that the numbers are off.
I always bought it in the bulk section at Whole Foods. So I’m not sure what the brand it. I’m sure any health food store could help you locate some. Just get the unflavored stuff.
Awesome!!!!!
My pleasure! Glad you enjoyed them!
I would freeze them. In the fridge, they probably last about a week. In the freezer, much longer. Best of luck and congratulations!
Just made these! I had just a little and they are good! I cut the honey to 1/3 cup and made up for the calories with about 1/4 cup chocolate chips!
Awesome!
I always used 100% whey. I bought it in bulk at Whole Foods. Sadly, they stopped carrying it.
Awesome! So glad you enjoyed them!
How many bars does this recipe make? I’m trying to figure out your serving size vs. the nutritional info.
It’s just below the title. 15 bars.
these are AMAZING I left out the honey, because I didn’t have some in the house at the time.
Awesome!
Instead of 1 cup of peanut butter I used 1/2 cup of PB2 (which is nothing more than dehydrated peanut butter — it’s clean), added 1/2 cup of fat free greek yogurt and 1/4 cup of unsweetened organic applesauce. Although good fat, I was looking for a pre/post workout quick grab and need to keep fat low pre/post workout so by making these changes was able to accomplish that and increase the protein as well
They are yummy!!!
Glad you enjoyed them!
Yes, that would account for the difference. Glad it turned out so well!
These are delicious! Great for when I don’t have time to make a meal or if I forget to bring a lunch to work. Saves a lot of money too, thanks!
My pleasure!
This is so GOOD! I used choc pb protein and added unsweetened coconut and walnuts. YUM! Thank you!
My pleasure!
You have to click on the stuff you don’t want to print. Works okay for me. Maybe some sort of security setting on your computer?
Awesome! I hope you enjoy them!
PB2 isn’t clean, is it? Just curious. I hope you enjoy them!
Glad you enjoyed them!
I couldn’t follow your link, so I’m not sure if the three items you listed are the entire ingredient list. I would imagine that at the very least, they are a better option, yes. But again, I’m not sure if that’s the complete list. Sorry.
This is our go-to for healthy car snacks! I sometimes add raisins in addition to all of the above ingredients. These are really good!
I’m adopting a clean diet as my resolution this year, and because of my limited budget as a grad student, I’m doing it two to four items per week, but I am super excited about getting everything together and making these so I have snacks on hand during the day!
I absolutely love these, I would love to make them, but..hehehe, unfortunately I don’t like either peanut or almond butter, is there anything else I can sub it with?? thank you so much!
Cashew butter? The flavor is not predominant….
You can find both at most health food stores or on line at Amazon.com
At what temperature do you have to roast the oats in the over before you start?
350 F.
I am allergic to apples. Do you have any suggestions for alternatives? Thank you!
You could try 1/3 cup oil.
My husband is deployed right now and I’d like to make something healthy for him. It takes my packages a week to get to him. Which type of oats should I use so that they are chewy when they get to him?
I’m not sure these are the best choice. But if you want to try it, I would just follow the recipe as is.
Can’t do whey. Would pea protein work?
Sure!
I am *OBSESSED* with these bars! I added raisins to the batter then drizzled the bars with dark chocolate… they taste amazinggg! However, I initially halved the recipe and it came out super liquidy so I ended up having to add almost 1/2 cup more oats and 1/4 cup more protein to thicken it a bit to where it was somewhat similar to your picture. Luckily they came out very delicious anyway and I will definitely be making them again! Thank you!
My pleasure! Glad it worked out.
If I am making a softer bar, will these oats work?
http://www.bobsredmill.com/quick-cooking-rolled-oats.html
Or are these not necessarily the 3 min oats? I am new to buying oats so keep getting confused with steel cut, quick cook, rolled, 3 minute, etc.
They aren’t necessarily 3 minute oats. If they are, they will say so on the package.
I am making these with chocolate flavored whey (thats all I had), 3 tbsp of raw cacao powder, and chopped almonds (no choco chips) They are in the oven now! The batter tasted great, so I hope the bars are just as good
) thanks for the recipe!
My pleasure! I’m sure they’ll turn out fine. This is a very versatile recipe. People have done tons of variations.
Are these a chewy or a crunchier bar? Id prefer chewy.
Not crunchy at all. Soft and sort of chewy. Kinda like an oatmeal cookie.
Just made the cinnamon chocolate chip bars. Do I store them in the fridge? Oh long is the “shelf” life?
Yes, store them in the fridge for up to 5 days. They keep much longer in the freezer. Up to 6 months.
Dumb question. Do you eat them cold?
Yes.
Thank you for this recipe!! I have been wanting to make my own bars for a LONG time and this recipe was perfect! I used carob chips instead of the chocolate chips (couldn’t find the grain sweetened chips, even at Sprouts). Despite being such a healthy bar, they were tasty! I have been giving a few to my friends and they are liking them, too! Your website is just what I need to change how we eat.
Sharon – Fantastic! Glad you enjoyed them!
OK, I will admit, I am always skeptical trying a recipe that even resembles some sort of baking involved-I don’t trust my “skills” in this area. However, I’ve tried so many of your recipes, and your directions and hints never let me down. So, when I saw this recipe, I was excited to try it. I’ve been wanting to make my own protein bars for a long time, but didn’t know where to start. All I know is, even the “healthy” store bought kind are sometimes questionable. Also, they tend to give me a late spike in my blood sugar, which is extra frustrating for me, as I am diabetic and work hard to keep my numbers in control. These bars are so much easier to make than I anticipated, and they were GOOD! My husband, who loves anything sweet, even gobbled them up. At one point, I had to make two batches so we can have some at home to snack on, and some to take to work in our lunches. Thanks again for a yummy, easy and healthy recipe. If you like protein bars, give these a try…you won’t be disappointed!
Paula – Thank you! I’m glad you liked them. Just please be careful because these do have to “blood sugar spiking” abilities if not kept in moderation. But glad you enjoyed them!
This recipe sounds fantastic! I was wondering: how long would these last sealed in a container? I’d like to make a couple of batches at a time and stock up if possible.
Kat – They won’t last all that long, but the good news is, you can freeze them.
This is my go to recipe for protein bars!! I tweak it depending on what I have on hand…I’ve used a chocolate protein/meal powder called shakeology, raisins, PB2 reconstituted, flax seed, allspice, apple pie spice, etc. thank you for an amazing core recipe!!!
Heather – My pleasure!
Yeah protein count looks to low and you have to watch the amount of PB. PB and nuts do add weight to you.
I am a little more simple.
1. Three cups rolled oats.
2. six cups of vanilla whey (good whey will be 25g a scoop)
3. Can of pumpkin, or jar of all natural apple sauce.
4. four whole eggs (yes whole because the nutrients are in the yolk)
5 Two cups of shredded coconut.
6. 1 cup shaved Almonds (if you choose)
7. 1 cup of raisins or cranraisins (cranberry is a much better choice)
Heat oven to 400 degrees. Pour your seven items into a bowl and mix thoroughly.
You can cook in bread pans and slice into bars, but I use something like this (http://www.themahanandi.org/images/chocolate/chocolatedatecakecopyrightedimage1.jpg)
After you have evenly distributed the mixture to the cooking sheet place in oven.
Set timer for 15 minutes then test by using the knife test (if the knife comes out clean then they are done. Cool the bars then zip lock them.
Brent – Sounds good, thanks!