Description

These no-bake Chocolate Workout Bars are the perfect protein-packed snack for pre- or post-workout energy. Combining creamy peanut or almond butter with rich cocoa, they offer a delicious balance of sweetness and nutrition. Made with simple ingredients like oat flour and optional protein powder, these bars are easy to prepare and set in the refrigerator, making them convenient for busy days.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter
1/4 cup honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup oat flour
1/4 cup protein powder (optional)
1/4 tsp salt
2 tbsp milk of choice, as needed
1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring enough overhang to lift the bars out easily after setting.
Mix wet ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter (or almond butter), honey (or maple syrup/agave), and unsweetened cocoa powder. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Add dry ingredients: Incorporate the oat flour, protein powder if using, and salt into the wet mixture. Mix well to form a thick, dough-like consistency.
Adjust consistency: If the dough feels too dry or crumbly, gradually add milk of choice one tablespoon at a time until the mixture is pliable but not overly wet.
Fold in chocolate chips: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, if using, to distribute them evenly throughout the dough.
Press into pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula or your hands to press it down evenly and smooth the top for uniform thickness.
Refrigerate to set: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour to allow the bars to firm up.
Slice and store: Remove the set mixture from the pan using the parchment paper edges. Slice into 8 bars. Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for freshness.

Notes

For vegan or dairy-free option, use maple syrup or agave syrup, almond butter, and plant-based milk.
Protein powder is optional but recommended to boost protein content for workout recovery.
Oat flour can be made by grinding rolled oats in a blender if unavailable.
Store bars refrigerated for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of honey or syrup to your preference.