Imagine a snack that's not just delicious, but also packs a powerful nutritional punch – welcome to the world of homemade Almond Oat and Goji Berry Protein Bars! These aren't your ordinary store-bought energy bars; they're a game-changing, nutrient-dense treat that will revolutionize your snacking experience. Loaded with protein, healthy fats, and superfood ingredients, these bars are perfect for fitness enthusiasts, busy professionals, and anyone looking to fuel their body with wholesome, tasty nutrition.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Snack
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup goji berries
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare your baking equipment by lining an 8x8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped almonds, and chia seeds. Mix thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, warm the almond butter for 30 seconds to soften. Add honey (or maple syrup) and vanilla extract to the almond butter, stirring until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry oat mixture, stirring carefully to ensure all dry ingredients are coated and the mixture holds together.
- Gently fold in the goji berries, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan, pressing firmly and evenly with the back of a spatula or clean hands to create a compact layer.
- Refrigerate the pan for 1-2 hours to allow the bars to set and become firm.
- Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and place on a cutting board.
- Cut into 12 equal rectangular bars using a sharp knife.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for longer storage.
Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for easier mixing and better texture.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure compact, well-formed bars.
- For a extra protein boost, consider adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the dry ingredients.
- If the mixture seems too dry, add a little more almond butter or honey to help it bind.
- For a vegan version, replace honey with maple syrup and ensure your protein powder is plant-based.
- Experiment with different dried fruits or nuts to customize your bars.
- Line your pan carefully to ensure easy removal and clean cutting.
- Chill the bars completely before cutting for the cleanest, most professional-looking results.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
