Imagine a delicious, nutrient-dense snack that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also fuels your body with high-quality protein and wholesome ingredients. These Oatmeal Raisin Protein Bars are the game-changing recipe you've been searching for - perfect for fitness enthusiasts, busy professionals, and anyone looking to elevate their nutritional game with a homemade treat that beats any store-bought protein bar!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 10 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup protein powder
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of protein powder, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 cup of chopped nuts if you are using them. Stir the dry ingredients together until they are evenly mixed.
- In a separate bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of almond butter and 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined. The mixture should be thick and sticky.
- Fold in 1/2 cup of raisins, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and onto a cutting board.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into 10 equal pieces. This will help them hold their shape better.
- Store the oatmeal raisin protein bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Tips
- Use room temperature almond butter for easier mixing and better texture
- For extra protein, consider using whey or plant-based protein powder with a neutral flavor
- Toast your nuts before adding them to enhance their nutty flavor
- Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean cutting
- Let bars cool completely to ensure they hold their shape and don't crumble
- Experiment with different mix-ins like dark chocolate chips or dried cranberries
- If the mixture seems too dry, add a little more honey or almond butter
- Store bars in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent them from becoming too soft
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
