Protein Power Cashew Bars
Who doesn’t love a good protein bar? They are among the most tasty, filling, and convenient healthy snack ideas you can enjoy. If you are looking to make homemade protein 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. When you make your own bars, you never have to compromise on getting exactly what you are looking for. With homemade bars, it’s also easier to add more nutrition into each bite. (Want carbohydrates that will provide a more gradual stream of energy? Throw in some fiber-rich dried fruit or whole grain cereal. Need a bit more fiber and fat to help satiate you? Add some nuts and seeds.) Equally important, making your own bars means you get to leave out the ingredients you don’t love so much or need to avoid for health reasons.These bars are not only filled with protein, they are also magically delicious. They are sweet but it in a very nice and nourishing way. Have them after a workout or as a mid-day snack.Protein Bars are a convenient way of getting your protein on the go. These tasty treats are comprised of high quality protein, energy boosting carbohydrates and modest amount of healthy fats. Creamy, textured and loaded with energy-boosting nutrients, these healthy snacks are just what you need to keep things going on a busy day.You can also save money too by making your own homemade protein bars. They taste better than anything you can buy at the store.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups cashews, soaked 3+ hours and drained
- 1/2 cup peanut (or any nut or seed) butter
- 1/4 cup oats, instant or quick
- 1/4 cup desiccated coconut
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup hemp hearts (seeds)
Chocolate Coating
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
Instructions
- Line an 8 x 8” baking pan or similar sized 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.Place cashews, oats and desiccated coconut into the food processor and process until broken down and crumbly.Add the peanut butter, honey and coconut oil, and pulse until mixture is sticky and well combined. Be careful not to over process as its nice to have texture and different sized “bits” in your protein bars. Taste test and add more honey if not sweet enough.Scoop out mixture into the prepared pan and evenly spread to form a thick layer.Sprinkle with hemp hearts, then press with your fingers to stick them to the mixture.Cover with plastic foil and freeze for at least one hour.
Chocolate Coating
- Place chocolate chips and coconut oil in small dish and microwave with 30 second bursts stirring between each one until melted and smooth.Or use double boiler method - (pot of boiling water with a bowl resting on top) melt the chocolate chips and the coconut oil together.Remove bars from the freezer, cut into equal bars and dip them into melted chocolate (it will freeze instantly).Serve immediately or keep in the freezer.
If you are looking for more delicious, healthy, no bake desserts and treats to help you reach your health, wellness and fitness goals, you will love my collection here: Blended Bites
