Easy No-bake protein bars!!

Life gets busy. When you need something nutritious for good energy on the run, grab a couple of your own homemade Protein Bars! These 5-ingredient protein bars couldn’t be easier. They require no baking, they keep very well, and are deliciously satisfying! Most of all, they are absolutely easy!

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 cup milk (I use whole)
• 1 cup natural almond butter
• 2-3TB honey, plus more to taste
• 1 1/4 cups vanilla (or chocolate) whey protein powder
• 2 cups old fashioned rolled oats (uncooked)
• (Optional: Melted dark chocolate for drizzling)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a medium heavy pot, combine milk, almond butter, and desired amount of honey over low heat. Stir just until all ingredients are well combined and warmed through. Add protein powder and oats. Stir to combine well. (If the mixture is too thick to stir, simply add a bit more milk.)
2. Lightly grease an 8×8 pan. Press mixture evenly into pan, using enough pressure to compress mixture into desired bar thickness.
3. Allow bars to cool completely.
4. Cut into squares. If desired, drizzle with melted chocolate and let cool. Wrap in airtight container and store at moderate room temp for up to a week.

How to store homemade protein bars? These protein bars must be stored in the fridge for up to 7 days. Because of the natural nut butter, they soften significantly at room temperature. I would even recommend freezing for long term storage!

How can I change up the flavors of these protein bars? You could totally switch up the spices and flavorings in these bars:

·      Almond: go with a neutrally flavored protein powder and add almond extract with sliced almonds.

·      Mint chocolate chip: try adding a chocolate protein powder and some chocolate chips; maybe even some peppermint extract.

·      Peanut butter: swap the almond butter for PB and/or use a PB flavored protein powder.

·      Lemon-coconut: try adding in some lemon zest and pulsing in some shredded coconut at the end.

·      Coffee chocolate: add a tablespoon of espresso powder, some cocoa powder, and chocolate chips.