Recipe Overview
A chewy, nutrient-dense homemade protein bar recipe featuring wholesome oats, tart cranberries, creamy almond butter, and high-quality whey protein. Ideal for busy athletes, meal preppers, or anyone craving an easy, portable, high-protein snack.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 12
Ingredients
Base
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup whey protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
Supplements & Seasonings
- 1/2 cup natural almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Professional Chef-Level Instructions
Prep Work
- In a saucepan over low heat, combine almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and almond milk. Stir until smooth and well-mixed.
- In a large bowl, mix oats, protein powder, dried cranberries, and salt.
Mix & Chill
- Pour wet mixture over dry ingredients; stir until fully combined.
- Press mixture firmly into a lined 8×8-inch pan.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set, then cut into 12 bars.
Detailed Nutrition Facts (per bar)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
| Calories | 190 | — |
| Protein | 12g | — |
| Net Carbs | 18g | — |
| Total Fat | 8g | — |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | — |
| Fiber | 3g | — |
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegan: Use plant-based protein powder and maple syrup.
- Nut-Free: Substitute sunflower seed butter for almond butter.
- Flavor Boost: Add cinnamon or chopped dark chocolate.
- Extra Fiber: Add 2 tbsp chia or flaxseeds.
Pro Tips & Tricks
- Press firmly when setting bars to prevent crumbling.
- Store bars in airtight containers for freshness.
- Cut bars to your preferred size for easy portion control.
- Use high-quality protein powder for best taste and texture.
How to Serve
- Snack: Great pre- or post-workout energy boost.
- Travel: Easy, portable protein for on-the-go.
- Lunchbox: Protein-packed treat for kids or adults.
How to Store
- Fridge: Keep in airtight containers up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Freeze individually wrapped bars up to 3 months.
Similar Recipes
- No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars
- Homemade Vanilla Almond Protein Bars
- Pumpkin Spice Protein Bars
Fuel your day and workouts with these delicious, convenient, and customizable protein bars—your ideal homemade energy solution!
