Coconut & Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars Recipe

Introduction

These Coconut & Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars are a delicious, healthy treat perfect for a quick snack or post-workout boost. Packed with protein, oats, and natural ingredients, they combine creamy peanut butter with rich chocolate and tropical coconut for a satisfying flavor.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (just peanuts + salt)
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1/3 cup honey (use coconut palm syrup if vegan)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder*
• 1 cup oats
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 2 tablespoons chocolate chips + 1 teaspoon coconut oil
• 1/3 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• Optional: 1/3 cup dried tart cherries (or dried fruit of choice)
• Fancy sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a saucepan over low heat, gently warm the peanut butter, coconut oil, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir frequently until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Remove from heat and transfer to a large bowl.
2. Step 2: Add the vanilla protein powder to the warm mixture and stir until smooth. Fold in the oats, chia seeds, shredded coconut, and dried cherries if using. Press the mixture evenly into an 8×4 inch loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
3. Step 3: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil, stirring until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top of the bars and sprinkle with fancy sea salt.
4. Step 4: Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour to set. Once firm, remove from the pan and cut into 10 bars or squares. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For a vegan version, replace honey with coconut palm syrup and choose a plant-based protein powder.
• Try adding chopped nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor and less sweetness.

Storage

Store the bars tightly wrapped or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They can also be frozen for longer storage. To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different nut butter?

Yes, almond or cashew butter can be used as substitutes, though the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

Do I have to use protein powder?

Protein powder adds nutritional value, but you can omit it if you prefer. The bars will still hold together but may be less protein-packed.

Coconut & Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 99 reviews

These Coconut & Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars are a delicious and nutritious snack perfect for on-the-go energy. Made with natural peanut butter, coconut oil, honey, vanilla protein powder, oats, chia seeds, and a touch of chocolate and shredded coconut, these bars combine wholesome ingredients for a satisfying treat. They are easy to make with no baking involved, ideal for a quick healthy snack or post-workout fuel.

• Author: Leo
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 10 bars 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (just peanuts + salt)
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1/3 cup honey (use coconut palm syrup if vegan)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
• 1 cup oats
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1/3 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• Optional: 1/3 cup dried tart cherries (or dried fruit of choice)

Topping

• 2 tablespoons chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil
• Fancy sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions

1. Combine Wet Ingredients: Heat the peanut butter, coconut oil, honey, and vanilla extract in a saucepan over low heat. Stir continuously until the mixture is well combined and smooth. Remove from heat and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: Stir in the vanilla protein powder until the mixture is smooth. Then fold in the oats, chia seeds, unsweetened shredded coconut, and dried cherries if using, ensuring an even distribution.
3. Form the Bars: Line an 8×4 inch loaf pan with parchment paper and press the mixture firmly into the pan to create an even layer.
4. Melt Chocolate Topping: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil, stirring until completely smooth. Drizzle this melted chocolate evenly over the top of the pressed bars. Sprinkle with fancy sea salt to enhance flavor.
5. Chill and Set: Place the loaf pan in the refrigerator for 1 hour to allow the bars to set properly. Once firm, remove from the pan using the parchment paper and cut into 10 bars or squares.
6. Storage: Store the bars tightly wrapped or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, keeping them fresh and ready to enjoy.

Notes

• You can substitute honey with coconut palm syrup for a vegan version.
• If you prefer, swap dried tart cherries for any dried fruit you like.
• Press the mixture firmly into the pan for bars that hold together well.
• For a nut-free version, consider using sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
• Ensure to use natural peanut butter with no added sugar or oil for a healthier option.

Keywords: protein bars, peanut butter protein bars, no-bake snacks, healthy snacks, coconut, chocolate, homemade protein bars