I don’t know about you, but when I’m running around from place to place, I like to keep a protein bar or two on hand to hold me over when hunger strikes. In fact, my husband often eats them for breakfast as he runs out the door for work or the gym!
Of course, you can find a million different protein bar options at your local grocery store. However, they are often full of processed ingredients, added sugars and not-so-healthy fats.
Not to mention, they can be super expensive, too! Even the cheaper brands that tend to have more added sugar and other unnecessary ingredients are still a few dollars per bar. Not to mention the bars with more natural ingredients. So, instead of spending an arm and a leg and being exposed to less than the best quality ingredients, I make my own protein bars!
Who doesn’t love a good protein energy bar? They are among the most tasty, filling, and convenient healthy snack ideas you can enjoy. If you are looking to make homemade bars, though, then you have probably got an inkling that DIY’ing it has certain advantages.
The main draw with going the homemade route is the infinite customizability. Many protein energy bars on the market aren’t fit for everyone’s dietary needs (paleo, keto, gluten free, vegan, nut-free etc), but when making your own, you can make sure that they are! Also when you make your own, it comes out so much cheaper than buying from the store. Whip up a batch in under 5 minutes, and you might never want to spend money on another packaged protein bar ever again.
This homemade recipe does not have any nasty preservatives and artificial sweeteners and is packed with healthy fats and good for you ingredients. Plus, this recipe tastes better than store bought bars, and is packed with clean and nutritious ingredients.
These bars have a chewy texture and are made with just a few simple ingredients that you can find at almost any grocery store. They are one of my go-to recipes to make so I can have a quick snack to grab on a busy day. In my opinion, They are a great post-workout snack or the perfect snack to curb your sweet tooth and fill your tummy between meals.
Unlike many packaged varieties, these protein bars are made with simple, whole-food ingredients you likely already have waiting in your kitchen! Nutritious on their own, they come together to create a delicious superfood-filled bar you are going to love.
This recipe doesn’t require any baking. You simply melt the ‘melty’ ingredients then mix all of the other ingredients into the same saucepan. Then refrigerate until chilled, drizzle with melted chocolate, cut into bars and you have your Almond Mango Protein bars ready to snack on!
Ingredients you will need:
Almonds – Nutrient powerhouses, a serving of almonds provides 3.5 grams of fiber, 6 grams of protein, and 14 grams of fats 9 of which are monounsaturated! Not to mention they are full of vitamins and antioxidants that can help control blood sugar, prevent heart attacks, aid in weight loss, and more.
Desiccated coconut – Used for added texture and sweetness, coconut flakes are also a good source of fat, contain protein, minerals, and vitamin B. As a result, they can help improve cholesterol levels, regulate blood sugar levels, and boost immunity.
Dried mango or dried fruit of choice – If dried without added sugars, dried mango is a great source of nutrients. For instance, it’s an excellent source of vitamin C, copper, and folate. It’s also packed with polyphenols that help boost immunity, improve hair, skin, and nails, reduce the risk of cancer, and more!
Protein powder – Depending on the type of protein used, each powder has different nutritional benefits. However, including an adequate amount of protein in your diet can help build and maintain muscles, strengthen bones, regulate hormones, and more.
Honey or maple syrup– A better unrefined sugar alternative, both honey and maple syrup are rich in minerals and antioxidants that can boost immunity.
Ingredient Alternatives and Add-Ins:
The great thing about this recipe is that it can easily be adapted to fit everyone’s taste buds and dietary needs! For instance, if followed exactly, the recipe creates perfect delicious bars. However, if you are looking to vary the recipe you can swap out the almonds for any other nut you prefer. Or, get creative with fun add-ins like seeds, chopped nuts, cacao nibs, and more!
They are great for an on-the-go snack, with 10 grams of protein and under 2 grams net carbs per bar. Also perfect for lunch boxes and easy to make-ahead: You can make a big batch and keep them chilled or even frozen until you’re ready to eat. What’s not to like?
Feel free to use your favorite protein powder, and the recipe can easily be doubled or tripled if you want to make up a big batch for meal prep. Enjoy these chewy, nutty, and protein-packed snack bars!
Almond Mango Protein Bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups almonds
- 1 cup dates, soaked 30 minutes and drained
- 1/2 cup desiccated coconut
- 1/2 cup dried mango chopped or dried apricot or pineapple can be substituted
- 1/4 cup protein or collagen peptides powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Line a 7 x 5-inch baking pan or dish with parchment paper on the bottom and sides leaving some overhanging to act as a handle to get the bars out easier for cutting.Add the almonds into a food processor and process until broken down and crumbly. Add dates, coconut, mango, protein powder, vanilla and process until well combined.If the batter seems too thick, just add a little water or milk a tablespoon at a time until it comes together. If it’s too wet, add more protein powder. Be careful not to over process as its nice to have texture variance and different sized “bits” in your protein bars.Scoop mixture out into lined pan and smooth out with a spatula or back of a spoon. Let cool in the fridge for 1 hour or longer, then cut into 8-10 bars or more smaller squares.Store in fridge for up to 1 week or freezer for up to 3 months.
If you are looking for more delicious, healthy, protein-rich, no bake desserts and treats to help you reach your health, wellness and fitness goals, you will love my collection here: Blended Bites
