When you are craving something sweet, satisfying, and nourishing, these no bake Fruit & Nut Protein Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting strike the perfect balance. They are chewy, naturally sweet, and packed with texture from dried fruit and crunchy nuts – all topped with a smooth, lightly tangy, cream cheese yogurt frosting that takes them from everyday snack to healthy indulgence.
These bars are inspired by the classic fruit-and-nut flavour combo we all love, but reimagined in a protein-packed, no-bake format that fits busy lifestyles. No oven, no refined sugar, and no complicated steps – just simple ingredients blended together into a soft, sliceable bar that holds beautifully in the fridge.
At Blended Bites, we focus on treats that nourish and satisfy, and these bars do exactly that. Rolled oats form a hearty base, nut butter adds richness and healthy fats, and vanilla protein powder boosts staying power to help keep you fuller for longer. The dried fruit brings natural sweetness and chewiness, while nuts add crunch and depth – creating a bar that feels both wholesome and indulgent.
The cream cheese frosting is the finishing touch. Lightly sweetened and creamy, it balances the dense, textured base perfectly. It sets firm in the fridge, giving these bars a bakery-style look and making them ideal for slicing, storing, or serving. Whether you enjoy them as a mid-morning snack, post-workout bite, or healthier dessert, they deliver comfort and fuel in every bite.
One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Use your favourite dried fruits – cranberries, apricots, dates, raisins, or blueberries – and mix up the nuts depending on what you have on hand. Almonds, walnuts, pecans, or cashews all work beautifully. You can even add seeds or shredded coconut for extra texture.
These bars are perfect for meal prep and taste even better after a few hours in the fridge once the flavours have melded. Keep a batch on hand for those moments when hunger strikes and you want something that feels like a treat -but supports your energy and wellbeing. ✨
Fruit & Nut Protein Bars With Healthy Frosting
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 3/4 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1/2 cup almond butter or peanut butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mixed dried fruit (chopped if large)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans, or cashews)
Healthy Protein Frosting
- 3/4 cup cream cheese, softened (leave at room temperature for an hour or two or give it a burst in the microwave for 10 seconds).
- 3/4 cup Greek yogurt or blended cottage cheese
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings Optional
- Crushed freeze-dried fruit
- Coconut shreds
- Chocolate chips
Instructions
- Line a 7 x 5-inch loaf 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. Or use a silicon bar mold.Add the rolled oats to a food processor and pulse until they form a coarse flour.Add protein powder, nut butter, honey and vanilla. Process until the mixture is well combined and slightly sticky. Transfer to a bowl and fold through dried fruit and nuts. If the mixture seems to dry add a little water, a tablespoon at a time until it comes together.Press the mixture into the prepared tin and smooth the surface.
Healthy Protein Frosting
- In another bowl, whisk together all frosting ingredients until smooth and creamy.Spread frosting evenly over the base.Add chosen toppings and gently press in so they stick.Refrigerate for 2–3 hours, or until fully set.Slice into 8-10 bars or more smaller squares.Store in the fridge forup 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
