Finding a protein or granola bar that’s actually good for you is not an easy task. Protein bars are basically just jacked up candy bars, and granola bars don’t fare much better. In fact, some of these bars have over 300 calories and more than 30 grams of sugar! And aside from a few select bars like Kashi and Luna bars, most are full of artificial ingredients like high fructose corn syrup, aspartame, and other additives.
Even if you find the healthiest bar out there, it’s going to cost you! On average, protein bars are $2 to $3 each, so if you’re eating one a day, or even just a few a week, it’s going to add up.
Bottom line: granola bars or protein bars – whatever you fancy – can be a healthy snack, or even meal replacement. But you’re just going to have to make your own! Here’s a no-bake recipe that’s easy to make, 100% natural, and full of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Yes, it’s actually good for you!
Protein Granola Bars (Kat’s Health Corner)
Ingredients:
2 1/2 cup rolled oats or oat bran
3/4 cup protein powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 cup walnut almond butter (or natural peanut butter)
3 bananas, the riper the better
3/4 cup almond milk (1/4 cup of this can be honey/agave — the honey/agave makes it extra yummy, but is optional)
1 Tbsp vanilla
1/3 cup raisins
1/3 cup sunflower seeds
1/3 cup chocolate chips
1. Combine the oats, protein powder, and salt in a medium bowl. In a larger bowl, combine the walnut almond butter, mashed bananas, milk, and vanilla. (add your honey/agave too if you prefer bars to be sweet)
2. Add the dry to the wet and stir to combine. Fold in the Raisins, Sunflower Seeds, and Chocolate Chips.
3. Pour the oat mixture into a baking pan (I used a 9×13) and spread it out with a spoon. Bake at 350* for 16-20 minutes, or until firm and lightly golden brown around the edges. Let cool. Cut into bars. To store, just wrap them in plastic wrap and store in the fridge for easy transportation.
