Homemade Protein Granola Bars - Healthy Snack Recipe (2024)

These homemade protein granola bars are crunchy, nutty, and great for meal prep! Make a batch of them and you’ll have a portable breakfast or snack for the rest of the week.

One of my longest running AnneTheRD nutrition counseling clients and I met at a bakery in Alexandria that sells these really delicious homemade protein granola bars.

For months I wanted to try to recreate a variation of them so my client (and I) could make them at home. I’m happy to say it finally happened. Client and husband approved! 🙂

Homemade Protein Granola Bars - Healthy Snack Recipe (1)

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Homemade Protein Granola Bars

These are really easy to make! I love the hearty crunch from all the nutritious nuts and seeds, and the sweet burst of flavor from the dried fruit.

I brought some to my client at our last meeting, and Matt and I have been enjoying the rest of them as snacks and easy on the go breakfasts!

Homemade Protein Granola Bars - Healthy Snack Recipe (2)

Protein Granola Bars Ingredients

To make these protein granola bars, you’ll need:

  • rolled, old fashioned oats (other types of oats, like steel cut, won’t work as well here)
  • whey protein powder (unflavored)
  • chopped dry roasted, salted almonds
  • salted sunflower seeds
  • chopped pecans or cashews
  • dried fruit (cherries, apricots, or goji berries are some of my favorites here!)
  • unsweetened shredded coconut
  • creamy peanut butter
  • maple syrup or honey
  • eggs
  • optional: vanilla extract, dark chocolate chips, and cinnamon

Looking for more flavor ideas? Here are more delicious and nutritious homemade granola bar recipes!

Homemade Protein Granola Bars - Healthy Snack Recipe (3)

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s so versatile. The nuts/seeds are not set in stone, and neither is the dried fruit choice.

I’ve tried these using apricots, pecans, and honey, and they were great, but I also love making them with goji berries, cashews, and maple syrup. So feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand!

Love peanut butter? Try these no bake peanut butter bliss balls, too!

How to Make Granola Bars

Start by preheating the oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a semi-shallow baking dish with non-stick spray (10 x 10 or 9 x 13 both work well, depending if you want the granola bars to be more thin or thick).

In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients and stir (this includes the coconut and dried fruit).

Homemade Protein Granola Bars - Healthy Snack Recipe (4)

Separately, mix together the wet ingredients. Add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix well.

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Press the mixture into the pan – make sure it’s an even layer. Bake for 15 minutes (until the edges are browned and the center is firm when you touch it).

Allow to cool, remove from the pan, and place on parchment paper. Cut into bars and enjoy!

The size of the pan you use can also vary, as I mentioned. I’ve had success with a 10 x 10 brownie pan as well as a 9 x 13 pan which made the bars a little thinner. Up to you!

I can’t wait to make these again – the variations are endless! They’re also perfect for pre- or post-workout fuel.

Homemade Protein Granola Bars - Healthy Snack Recipe (6)

How to Store Homemade Granola Bars

Store your granola bars on the counter or in the fridge in an airtight container or zippable bag for up to 1 week. I recommend placing wax or parchment paper between each layer so they don’t stick together.

You can also freeze them! Wrap them individually in wax or parchment paper, and place in a large zippable bag in the freezer. When ready to eat, place them on the counter to thaw.

I hope you enjoy these as much as we do. 🙂 The full recipe is at the end of this post.

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Like the look of these? Check out some of my other tasty and easy granola bar recipes:

  • 5-Minute No Bake Peanut Butter Granola Bars (vegan, gluten free if you use GF certified oats)
  • Dark Chocolate Quinoa Bars (gluten free)
  • Oatmeal Dark Chocolate Granola Bars
  • (vegan, gluten free)
  • Savory Granola Bar Recipe: Cheesy Sun-Dried Tomato Pizza Bar

Nutty Protein Granola Bars

Homemade Protein Granola Bars - Healthy Snack Recipe (8)

July 24, 2019 by Anne

These bars are crunchy thanks to the nutritious nuts and seeds, and sweet because of the dried fruit. Perfect as a snack or easy on the go breakfast!

Prep Time10 minutes

Cook Time15 minutes

Total Time25 minutes

Yield

12 TO 16 BARS

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Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups rolled old fashioned oats
  • 1/2 cup unflavored whey protein powder
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • 1 cup roughly chopped dry roasted, salted almonds
  • 3/4 cup salted sunflower seeds
  • 1/2 cup roughly chopped pecans or cashews
  • 3/4 cup dried fruit (dried cherries, diced apricots, or goji berries are great here)
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened
  • 2/3 cup natural creamy peanut butter (salted or unsalted)
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. Spray a 10 x 10 or 9 x 13 pan with non-stick spray.
  3. In a large bowl, stir together the dry ingredients (oats through coconut).
  4. In a separate bowl, stir together the wet ingredients (peanut butter through vanilla).
  5. Add the wet ingredients to the dry and stir until completely incorporated.
  6. Press the mixture into the prepared pan in an even layer.
  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the edges are browned and the center is firm to the touch.
  8. Allow to cool, remove from the pan, and cut into bars. Enjoy!

Did you make this recipe?

Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Instagram

Homemade Protein Granola Bars - Healthy Snack Recipe (2024)

FAQs

Can I add protein powder to my granola bar recipe? ›

Any protein powder will work, but vanilla-, chocolate-, or peanut butter-flavored protein powder will work best with the flavors in these bars already. Dark chocolate chips. Use dark chocolate chunks or chips or even mini peanut butter cups if you want a real treat.

Are protein granola bars healthy? ›

Many people consider granola bars a convenient and healthy snack and enjoy their flavor and versatility. In some cases, granola bars can be a good source of fiber and protein to help curb cravings between meals. However, some contain as much sugar, carbs, and calories as candy bars.

What helps homemade granola bars stick together? ›

Honey – Along with the nut butter, it helps all these ingredients stick together! I love its warm amber flavor in this recipe. Vanilla extract – It amps up the bars' warm flavor.

Are homemade granola bars healthier than store bought? ›

While store-bought granola bars can be unhealthy and full of added sugars, these homemade granola bars are healthy in moderation. They're a delicious and nutritious snack option compared to those that come in a package.

What not to mix protein powder with? ›

The addition of real milk powder may lead to bloating, constipation and probably dysentery because of it's high lactose and sugar level. Don't add ingredients such as soy protein which contains chemical compounds that can lead to hormonal disturbance in some people. Avoid mixing vegetable oils that contain trans fats.

Is it OK to eat protein bars everyday? ›

A closer look at the ingredients and sugar levels in some of these bars can make you question whether they're a good idea to eat every day. While there's no problem with the occasional sugary snack or 'unhealthy' treat, eating certain types of protein bars every day might be problematic long term.

What is the best protein bar? ›

The best protein bars, at a glance:
  • Best Overall: RxBars, $22.
  • Best-Tasting: Quest Protein Bars, $28.
  • Best for Building Muscle: Rise Whey Protein Bars, $28.
  • Best for Pregnancy: Aloha Bars, $23.
  • Best High-Fiber Option: IQBars, $24.
  • Best for Satiety: Perfect Bar, $11.
  • Best Gluten-Free: No Cow Bars, $37.
  • Best Low-Carb: Think!
Mar 15, 2024

Can you eat too many protein bars? ›

Excessive protein intake, often found in protein bars, can strain the kidneys and liver, leading to long-term health complications. Moreover, the inclusion of added sugars or artificial sweeteners can disrupt blood sugar levels, contribute to sugar cravings, and negatively impact gut health.

What is the best binder for granola bars? ›

Chia seeds are often praised for their binding powers. In fact, they secure ingredients so well that they can even be used as an egg replacer. Adding just a spoonful of chia seeds to your favorite granola bar recipe will make a huge difference in its texture.

Is it cheaper to make your own granola bars? ›

Homemade granola bars aren't hard to make once you have all the right ingredients and they'll certainly save you money in the long term. It's hard to fight against the convenience and habit of picking up a box of bars at the store, but it really seems like it's worth trying to make our own.

How do you keep homemade granola bars from falling apart? ›

If your granola bars are falling apart or seem too crumbly, here are a few tips. Make sure you use honey or another sticky sweetener such as maple syrup in the liquid part of the recipe; this recipe calls for honey. This will help bind together the ingredients and keep that signature bar shape.

Can I eat homemade granola everyday? ›

That's because they don't contain added sugars or fats. But if the granola uses whole grain oats and minimal added sugars and fats, that can be a good choice too. Is it okay to eat granola every day? Yes, granola can be eaten daily.

Is there such a thing as a healthy snack bar? ›

You may already be familiar with RXBARs, which are protein bars made of whole foods. Many of these bars are made from things such as egg whites, cashews, almonds, and dates, making them a good source of protein and healthy fats.

What is a healthy alternative to granola bars? ›

  • 10 Snacks to Bring on a Hike (That Aren't Granola Bars) ...
  • Peanut butter and banana. ...
  • Beef jerky. ...
  • Dried fruit. ...
  • Veggies and hummus. ...
  • Peanut butter stuffed pretzels. ...
  • Medjool dates. ...
  • Chocolate-covered almonds.
Jun 28, 2023

Can you just add protein powder to food? ›

Protein powder is versatile and delicious, making it a great addition to smoothies, bowls, baked goods, oatmeal, yogurt, and more. If you're looking to get more out of your pre or post-workout supplements, read these eight creative and delicious ways to use protein powder beyond the shaker bottle.

What happens when you add protein powder to baked goods? ›

When it comes to baking, whey protein powder mixes very well with other ingredients and makes a good dough. However, you should never replace more than ¼ of the flour with whey protein otherwise it will make the baked goods dry and rubbery.

Can you just add protein powder to baked goods? ›

Protein powder is a good choice for crafting desserts like cake or cookies or other kinds of baked goods such as bread, pastries, pizza dough, or even pasta. It's not a 1:1 substitution, though. Flour and protein powder have different properties.

Can you mix protein powder with any food? ›

You can use protein powder in a variety of ways. From smoothies to overnight oats to even your favorite baked goods recipes, the options are truly endless. Try adding some protein powder to your coffee to start your morning with a dose of protein, or add it to your creamy soup to make it more protein-rich.

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