Homemade Protein Rich Granola Bar Recipe

Homemade protein-rich granola bars are perfect for a nutritious and convenient snack. Here’s a simple recipe to make your own:

Ingredients:

- 2 cups rolled oats

- 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)

- 1/2 cup nut butter (almond or peanut butter)

- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup

- 1/4 cup chia seeds or flaxseeds

- 1/2 cup nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans), chopped

- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

- 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or apricots), chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, protein powder, chia seeds, and chopped nuts. Stir to mix well.

3. Heat Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan, gently heat the nut butter and honey (or maple syrup) over low heat until melted and well combined. Stir frequently to avoid burning.

4. Combine Ingredients: Pour the melted mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until everything is well coated and combined. If using chocolate chips or dried fruit, fold them in at this stage.

5. Press Mixture: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Press it down firmly using the back of a spoon or your hands to ensure it’s compact.

6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

7. Cool and Slice: Let the granola bars cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and cutting into bars.