Homemade High-Protein Granola Bars

(No-Bake & Baked Options)

QUICK STATS:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes (baked version) / 0 minutes (no-bake)
Total Time: 35-45 minutes (including cooling)
Servings: 12 bars
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary: Can be gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan

EQUIPMENT NEEDED:

Large mixing bowl
9×13 inch baking pan
Parchment paper
Measuring cups and spoons
Food processor (optional)
Sharp knife for cutting

INGREDIENTS:

Base Recipe:

2½ cups (250g) old-fashioned rolled oats
2 scoops (60g) protein powder of choice
½ cup (120ml) honey or maple syrup
½ cup (120g) natural peanut butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt

Optional Add-ins:

⅓ cup (60g) dark chocolate chips
¼ cup (30g) chopped almonds
2 tbsp (20g) chia seeds

METHOD:

No-Bake Version:

Line pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang
Mix oats and protein powder in large bowl
Heat honey and peanut butter in microwave for 30 seconds until runny
Pour wet ingredients over dry, mix thoroughly
Press firmly into pan
Refrigerate for 2 hours minimum
Cut into 12 bars

Baked Version:

Preheat oven to 350°F/175°C
Follow steps 1-4 above
Add 1 beaten egg to mixture
Bake for 18-22 minutes until edges are golden
Cool completely before cutting

CRUCIAL TIPS:

Don’t skip the parchment paper – bars will stick
Press mixture very firmly for bars that hold together
Cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling
Store in airtight container in fridge for up to 2 weeks
Freeze for up to 3 months

COMMON MISTAKES:

Using hot protein powder mixture (will denature protein)
Not pressing mixture firmly enough
Cutting before fully cooled
Using collagen protein (makes bars gooey)

VARIATIONS:

Vegan: Use plant-based protein and maple syrup
Chocolate Lovers: Add cocoa powder and chocolate chips
Nut-Free: Use sunbutter and seeds instead of nuts
Extra Protein: Add an additional scoop of protein powder

Each bar contains approximately: 12g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 9g healthy fats.