Carrot Cake Protein Bars With Healthy Frosting
No bake Carrot Cake Protein Bars with Healthy Frosting packed with warming spices, real carrot, and protein-rich goodness. Finished with a smooth, tangy cream cheese and yogurt frosting, these bars are a healthy, meal-prep - friendly treat that tastes just like classic carrot cake. 🥕✨🤍
Servings 8
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup finely grated carrot (about 2 medium carrots)
- 3/4 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1/2 cup almond butter or peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Pinch sea salt
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped walnuts or raisins
Healthy Protein Frosting
- 3/4 cup 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 tab;espoons honey or maple syrup (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Line a 7 x 5-inch loaf 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 rolled oats to a food processor and pulse until a coarse flour forms.Add grated carrot, protein powder, nut butter, honey, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt .Process until well combined and slightly sticky.Fold in any optional mix-ins by hand.Press the mixture firmly into the prepared tin and smooth the top.
Healthy Protein Frosting
- In another bowl, whisk together all frosting ingredients until smooth and creamy.Spread frosting evenly over the base.Refrigerate for 2–3 hours, or until fully set.Slice into 8-10 bars or smaller squares.Store in the fridge for up to 1 week or freezer for up to 3 months.