Vegan Protein Bars Healthy No Bake Recipe Wellplated Com

The world holds two kinds of people: those who walk around with healthy snacks like today’s vegan protein bars (and Trail Mix Granola Bars) tucked into their bags at all times, and those with snack envy (and hanger). You know which group I’m in! After years of spending too much money on pricey store-bought protein bars, I decided to start making my own. Today’s vegan protein bars have been my loyal snack partner ever since (right alongside these easy Peanut Butter Protein Bars). Made with dates, oats, vegan protein powder, and the nut butter of your choice, along with optional mix-ins like chocolate chips and chia seeds, these easy energy bars require zero baking (like my favorite Energy Balls). They come together in a snap and store beautifully.

How to Make Vegan Protein Bars

No more wondering where to buy vegan protein bars or which protein bars (or Protein Balls) are the healthiest! These are less expensive, taste wonderful, and are made from whole foods you can pronounce. Truly, this is the best vegan protein bars recipe you will find.

The Ingredients

Protein Powder. Use your favorite brand of vegan protein powder. I like to use vanilla protein powder for an extra boost of flavor.

Dates. Instead of honey (not vegan), I made these chewy vegan protein bars with dates (like these Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Balls). Naturally sweet and caramel-y, dates are also rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.Rolled Oats. A powerhouse whole grain ingredient packed with fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Rolled oats and quick oats both work well in this recipe.

Peanut Butter. The “glue” that holds these plant-based protein bars together (and these Peanut Butter Protein Balls). Peanut butter offers healthy fats, is low in carbs, and tastes scrumptious. Feel free to use whatever nut butter you enjoy most (cashew butter or almond butter would both be divine).

Chia Seeds. Despite being so tiny, chia seeds contain an impressive amount of fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. (I also love adding them to these Oatmeal Protein Cookies.)Chocolate Chips. An optional (or mandatory) mix-in depending on your position as a chocolate lover. I love the added sweetness and depth they lend these bars. (Make sure to select dairy-free chocolate to keep these bars vegan.)Almond Milk. Since every brand of nut butter is different, the almond milk keeps the bars from being too dry and ensures you can adjust the bars to the perfect texture.Salt. FLAVOR! Salt makes other ingredients pop.

The Directions

Recipe Variations

Chocolate Brownie Protein Bars. Use chocolate protein powder instead of vanilla protein powder. Add a teaspoon or so of cocoa powder to taste (be careful, it is powerful).Protein Bars with Flax. Swap ground flaxseed meal for the chia seeds. Organic pumpkin seeds would also be a nice way to add extra crunch.Double Chocolate Protein Bars. Use chocolate protein powder. Instead of folding chocolate chips into the batter, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled bars (or do both).Low-Calorie Protein Bars. Omit the chocolate chips and swap them for dried blueberries or dried cranberries.Peanut Butter Cup Protein Bars. Adds a few chopped peanut butter cups (or candy bar of choice) to the mixture for an indulgent treat.Vegan Protein Bars with Almond Butter. Swap almond butter for peanut butter to get an extra boost of vitamin E and healthy fats.Soy-Free Protein Bars. Opt for a plant-based protein powder that does not contain soy.

Storage Tips

To Store. Store the bars in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Due to their “no bake” consistency, the bars will become soft at room temperature.To Freeze. Place the bars in an airtight, freezer-safe storage container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe

Food Processor. This one is the perfect size for making jumbo batches of no-bake snacks, bars, and balls.Measuring Cups. A basic set of measuring cups is a must for any kitchen.Storage Containers. This set is my fav for storing all of my best energy balls and bar recipes.

Have you ever tried making your own protein bars? Avoid powders that contain whey protein, casein, egg, or collagen since all are derived from animal products.

Carrot Smoothie

5 mins

Oatmeal Smoothie

5 mins

Beet Smoothie

5 mins Leave a rating below in the comments and let me know how you liked the recipe. Whether this recipe is your first attempt or your 50th, I know it’ll be a welcome addition to your healthy snack routine.