Coconut Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars

My journey with these Coconut Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars began on a particularly hectic day when I was juggling work and family commitments. I needed a quick, nutritious snack to keep my energy levels up without the guilt of unhealthy munching. After a few experiments in the kitchen, I discovered this delightful combination that not only satisfies my sweet tooth but also fuels my body with wholesome ingredients. There’s something about the rich creaminess of peanut butter and the subtle sweetness of honey and chocolate that just feels like a big hug in each bite. These bars have quickly become a staple in our home, ready to be grabbed on the go or shared during movie nights at home.

Coconut Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars Shopping List

The ingredients for these Coconut Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars are not only nutritious but also work in harmony to create a satisfying treat. The combination of peanut butter, oats, and coconut plays a vital role in the texture and flavor, making each bite a delightful experience.

• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (just peanuts + salt) – A creamy base that provides healthy fats and protein.
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil – Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
• 1/3 cup honey (use coconut palm syrup if vegan) – A natural sweetener that brings together the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall taste with a warm, sweet note.
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder – Boosts the protein content, making these bars satisfying and nutritious.
• 1 cup oats – Provides fiber and helps with texture.
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds – Adds omega-3 fatty acids and a slight crunch.
• 2 tablespoons chocolate chips + 1 teaspoon coconut oil – For a delicious topping that makes these bars feel indulgent.
• 1/3 cup unsweetened shredded coconut – Adds a tropical flavor and chewy texture.
• Optional: 1/3 cup dried tart cherries (or dried fruit of choice) – A sweet and tangy addition that balances the richness.
• Fancy sea salt, for sprinkling – A finishing touch that elevates the flavors.

Instructions for Coconut Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars

Making these Coconut Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars is a breeze, and you’ll be surprised at how quickly they come together! Follow along with these simple steps, and soon you’ll have a delicious batch ready to enjoy.

1. Start by heating the natural peanut butter, coconut oil, honey, and vanilla extract in a saucepan over low heat. Stir the mixture gently until well combined and smooth, ensuring that the coconut oil is fully melted and incorporated. This creamy blend will serve as the base for our bars.
2. Once everything is well mixed, remove the saucepan from heat and transfer the warm mixture into a large bowl. Let it cool for just a moment — you don’t want it to be super hot when you add the next ingredients.
3. Next, stir in the vanilla protein powder until it’s fully blended into the mixture. The protein powder helps not only with flavor but also makes these bars filling.
4. Now it’s time to fold in the oats, chia seeds, unsweetened shredded coconut, and the optional dried tart cherries if you’re using them. Mix gently until everything is well incorporated, and the mixture resembles a thick dough.
5. Take an 8×4 inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan, using your hands or a spatula to compact it down firmly.
6. In a separate small saucepan, melt the chocolate chips and remaining coconut oil over low heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Once melted and smooth, drizzle the chocolate over the top of the pressed mixture in the loaf pan.
7. To finish, sprinkle a touch of fancy sea salt over the chocolate drizzle. This little bit of salt makes a big difference in balancing the sweetness!
8. Now, place the pan in the fridge for about 1 hour to allow the bars to set properly. It’s essential to let them firm up so they hold their shape when cut.
9. After an hour, remove the pan from the fridge and lift the bars out using the parchment paper. Place the block on a cutting board and slice it into 10 bars or squares, depending on your preference.
10. Store any leftover bars in the fridge tightly wrapped or in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Enjoy these delicious treats whenever you need a quick energy boost!

Making Adjustments

If you’re looking to personalize your Coconut Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars, here are some tips and tricks for making these delicious snacks even better!

• Storage: Keep your bars in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their freshness for up to two weeks. If you notice they’re beginning to dry out, you can wrap them individually in plastic wrap before storing.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze these bars! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
• Pairing: These bars pair wonderfully with a glass of almond milk or a cup of coffee for a delightful snack.
• Add-ins: Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or seeds, such as chopped almonds or sunflower seeds, to enhance the texture and nutritional profile.
• Sweetness level: If you prefer a sweeter bar, consider increasing the amount of honey or adding a little maple syrup.

Serving Options for Coconut Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars

When it comes to serving your Coconut Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars, the possibilities are endless! Here are some creative ideas:

• Breakfast on the go: Perfect for a quick breakfast option, these bars can be paired with a smoothie or a piece of fruit for a complete meal.
• Post-workout snack: After a workout, enjoy one of these bars for a quick protein boost to help with recovery.
• Lunchbox treat: Slice them up and pack them in lunchboxes for kids or adults to enjoy as a healthy treat during the day.
• Picnic staple: They make for a fantastic addition to any picnic or road trip, providing a satisfying snack that travels well.
• Movie nights: Cut them into smaller squares and serve them as a sweet treat during family movie nights, alongside some popcorn for a fun mix.
• Seasonal twist: Depending on the season, you can add seasonal flavors or toppings, like a sprinkle of cinnamon in the fall or coconut flakes in the summer.

FAQ

Conclusion

These Coconut Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars are not just snacks; they’re a deliciously healthy treat that anybody can enjoy. With their rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your home. I encourage you to give them a try! You won’t regret making these easy and satisfying bars that keep you energized throughout your day.

Coconut Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars

Craving something sweet yet healthy? These Coconut Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars are the ultimate snack! Filled with creamy peanut butter, oats, and a touch of chocolate, they are perfect for any time of the day. Make them tonight for a delicious boost!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Course Snacks

Cuisine American

Servings 10 bars

Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan

Ingredients

  

• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter just peanuts + salt
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1/3 cup honey use coconut palm syrup if vegan
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
• 1 cup oats
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 2 tablespoons chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil
• 1/3 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/3 cup dried tart cherries (or dried fruit of choice)
• Fancy sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions

 

• Heat natural peanut butter, coconut oil, honey, and vanilla extract in a saucepan over low heat. Mix together until well combined and smooth, then remove from heat and transfer to a large bowl.
• Stir in vanilla protein powder until smooth, then fold in oats, chia seeds, unsweetened shredded coconut, and dried cherries if using. Place in a 8x4 inch loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
• Add chocolate chips and coconut oil in a small saucepan and place over low heat until melted. Drizzle over the tops of the bars. Sprinkle with sea salt.
• Place in fridge for 1 hour before removing from pan and cutting into 10 bars or squares. Store bars in fridge tightly wrapped or in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

• Tip: If you don’t have any protein powder on hand, feel free to add almond flour instead and mix it in until a soft dough forms.
• Tip: Nutrition info does not include dried fruit, but does include chocolate.
• Tip: To keep these bars vegan: Use a vegan protein powder and coconut palm syrup, maple syrup or brown rice syrup instead of honey.

Keyword coconut chocolate treat, easy homemade bars, healthy protein bars, peanut butter snack