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No-Bake Peanut Butter Protein Bars

October 22, 2022 by Lindsay 151 Comments

Jump to Recipe

These No-Bake Protein Bars are a homemade version of your favorite store-bought peanut butter protein bar, without all the crazy ingredients. They’re the perfect snack after a tough workout.

homemade no bake peanut butter protein bars

**Originally published in 2014.**

Hi Friends!

These no-bake peanut butter protein bars have been a favorite in our house for almost 10 years now. I first started making them as holiday gifts for friends at the gym and over the years I’ve continued to make them for friends and family whenever they are requested.

Healthy No-Bake Peanut Butter Protein Bars

There are tons of store-bought protein bars out there but they can be expensive and some of them have unnecessary ingredients. These are made with simple ingredients you might already have on hand! Here’s what you’ll need for these bars:

  • Oat flour – you can buy this or make your own by simply grinding oats in a food processor or blender.
  • Protein powder- you can use any flavor. I most commonly use vanilla but have also made them with chocolate. My favorite protein powder is Promix.
  • Rice Chex cereal – this adds some texture. You could also use Rice Krispies or another similar cereal
  • Chia seeds – add a boost of omegas and a little more protein
  • Peanut butter – our favorite is Crazy Richard’s
  • Milk – you can use cow’s milk or plant-based milk
  • Honey – for sweetness and to help them stick together

I love making these because they’re easy to put together and keep well in the fridge so you can easily have them on for a post-workout snack or for days when you’re fighting that afternoon slump.


Want more protein snack ideas? Try these:

  • Easy Egg Wraps
  • Silken Tofu Berry Smoothie
  • Sweet Potato Protein Pancakes
  • Tuna Quinoa Cakes
  • Banana Protein Pancakes

No-Bake Protein Bar Recipe

No Bake Protein Bars topped with chocolate

Here’s how you make them:

Print

No-Bake Protein Bars

No Bake Protein Bars 3
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 18 reviews

A homemade, no-bake version of your favorite store-bought peanut butter protein bar, without all the crazy ingredients

  • Author: Lindsay L
  • Yield: 12 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 cups oat flour (simply grind oats in a food processor)
  • 1.5 cups vanilla protein powder
  • 1.5 cups Rice Chex cereal
  • 3 Tbsp chia seeds
  • 3/4 cup peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/3 – 1/2 cup honey, depending on sweetness preference
  • 2–4 Tbsp water, if necessary
  • 3 Tbsp chocolate chips, optional

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, protein powder, cereal and chia seeds.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the peanut butter, milk and honey.
  3. Microwave wet ingredients if peanut butter is not liquidy.
  4. Add liquid mixture into dry ingredients and stir to combine.
  5. Add water if necessary to make sure all dry ingredients are moistened. (Mixture will be crumbly.)
  6. Use parchment paper to press the mixture into a 9×9 pan.
  7. Freeze for 20 minutes.
  8. Cut into 12 bars. Top with melted chocolate chips if desired.
  9. Store in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @theleangreenbean on Instagram

Homemade No-Bake Oatmeal Protein Bars

Feel free to customize to your liking:

  • Sub your favorite nut butter for the peanut butter
  • Try Rice Krispies or another crunchy cereal instead of Chex.
  • Eat them plain or just drizzle with chocolate instead of covering the whole top.
  • Use unflavored protein powder instead of vanilla, but you may need to increase the honey and decrease the milk.
No Bake Protein Bars topped with chocolate for a holiday gift for friends

Added bonus? You can wrap a batch of these up in some pretty paper and ribbons and give them to a friend as a present at Christmas, their birthday, etc! Want more food gift ideas? Check out my Homemade Edible Christmas Gifts.


Want more no-bake protein bar and ball recipes? Here are some ideas – some don’t require protein powder – plus another protein bar recipe that does require baking.

Peanut Butter Hemp Energy Balls

Peanut Butter Hemp Energy Balls

These Peanut Butter Hemp Energy Balls are packed with fiber and protein for a healthy, kid-friendly snack made without protein powder

Grab the recipe!
My easy go-to energy ball recipe made with dates, hemp, peanut butter and flax

My Go-To Energy Ball Recipe

My Go-To Energy Ball Recipe is perfect for kids, nursing moms, athletes and anyone looking for a healthy snack. They’re full of fiber, protein, and healthy fats and easy to prep ahead of time to keep your freezer stocked.

Grab the recipe!
These gluten-free, grain-free protein bars are the perfect way to refuel after a workout and also make a great afternoon snack! They can be customized with mix-ins and are can easily be made paleo.

Sweet Potato Protein Bars

These gluten-free, grain-free protein bars make the perfect post-workout snack.

Grab the recipe!
These Almond Butter Protein Balls are a gluten-free, no-bake snack recipe that's great to have on hand for a busy afternoon or to help refuel post-workout!

Almond Butter Protein Balls

An easy, no-bake snack idea that’s easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins.

Grab the recipe!
Looking for a quick, healthy snack made with real food ingredients? Here are 12 kid-friendly energy ball recipes made without protein powder.

15 Kid-Friendly Protein-Rich Energy Balls| No Protein Powder

Grab the recipe!

Easy No Bake Protein Bars

These No-Bake Protein Bars are a homemade version of your favorite store-bought peanut butter protein bar, without all the crazy ingredients. They're the perfect snack after a tough workout.

Hope you like them! Be sure to store them in the fridge – or the freezer if you like them a little colder!


These protein bars make a great addition to your weekly food prep session so you have healthy snacks readily available during the week. If you liked this post, you’ll love my Mastering Food Prep e-course where I teach you everything you need to know about prepping food for the week ahead to make your life easier.

Enjoy!
–Lindsay–

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Filed Under: Snack Tagged With: Chia Seed, Honey, Milk, Oat Flour, Peanut Butter, Rice Chex

About Lindsay

Lindsay Livingston is a Registered Dietitian and new mom from Columbus, Ohio. On her blog, she shares simple, healthy recipes, nutrition tips, workouts and snapshots of her life. Follow her on Twitter @LeanGrnBeanBlog and Instagram @TheLeanGreenBean and be sure to subscribe via RSS or email so you never miss a post!

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Debbie @ Live from La Quinta says

    January 2, 2014 at 12:13 AM

    I’m not usually a protein bar person either, but the homemade version make them a lot healthier. Another variation is to make them vegan by using a vegan protein powder, almond (or other non-dairy milk), and agave or maple syrup instead of the honey. Thanks for the recipe!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 2, 2014 at 8:30 AM

      great idea!

      Reply
      • Sher says

        April 28, 2023 at 2:13 PM

        Can kids eat these too ? Or too much protein?
        6 and 3 year old

        Reply
        • Lindsay says

          May 3, 2023 at 6:31 AM

          They could eat a small one but they don’t really need that much protein. When my kids were that age i just made energy bars or balls without protein powder

          Reply
  2. GiGi Eats Celebrities says

    January 2, 2014 at 12:14 AM

    I LOVE not having to turn on the oven 🙂 These look super easy! Happy New Year Lindsay!

    Reply
  3. Christine @ Love, Life, Surf says

    January 2, 2014 at 1:42 AM

    I don’t eat a lot of protein bars either, mainly because of my allergies and there’s always something that ends of making my mouth itchy, even if everything on the ingredient list is OK. I would eat them if I made my own and could play around with the ingredients.

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 2, 2014 at 8:30 AM

      it’s always fun to experiment!

      Reply
  4. Christine @ Oatmeal Bowl says

    January 2, 2014 at 2:11 AM

    Sound delicious! Pinning. A nicely balanced protein bar with the chocolate chips. It IS after all an antioxidant. 🙂

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 2, 2014 at 8:30 AM

      of course! The most important part. thanks for pinning!

      Reply
  5. misszippy says

    January 2, 2014 at 6:26 AM

    Those look amazing! I will save this recipe for when I am back to running as a nice little recovery treat.

    Reply
  6. HollieisFueledByLOLZ says

    January 2, 2014 at 6:41 AM

    I’ve been looking for a homemade protein bar recipe since they are normally so expensive in the store! Thanks for that!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 2, 2014 at 8:30 AM

      let me know what you think if you try them!

      Reply
  7. Becky@TheSavedRunner says

    January 2, 2014 at 6:52 AM

    Oh this looks delicious! I am out of protein powder, but as soon as I get more I’m trying these!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 2, 2014 at 8:29 AM

      let me know what you think!

      Reply
  8. Fancy Nancy says

    January 2, 2014 at 6:56 AM

    Yum!! I want to go to your gym! Lol!

    Reply
  9. Madeline @ Food Fitness and Family says

    January 2, 2014 at 7:24 AM

    These look so good and easy!

    Reply
  10. MCM Mama says

    January 2, 2014 at 7:30 AM

    I need to try these. I have some protein powder that needs using and an 8 year old who is super skinny and always hungry…

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 2, 2014 at 8:29 AM

      ahhh hope these do the trick!

      Reply
  11. Alison @ Daily Moves and Grooves says

    January 2, 2014 at 7:35 AM

    Yum! I love that these are no bake, and of course that they have nut butter in them 🙂 Thanks for sharing the recipe!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 2, 2014 at 8:28 AM

      nut butter makes everything better

      Reply
  12. Deb @ Dietitian Debbie Dishes says

    January 2, 2014 at 7:38 AM

    These look great! I haven’t been a big fan of protein powder either, but I keep seeing all of these great recipes (like your bars) that include it. Perhaps I’ll have to give it a go!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 2, 2014 at 8:27 AM

      They’re good to have on hand for emergencies 🙂

      Reply
  13. Linz @ Itz Linz says

    January 2, 2014 at 7:55 AM

    these look faaaaantastic!

    Reply
  14. Erica { EricaDHouse.com } says

    January 2, 2014 at 8:09 AM

    These look delicious and super healthy! I also try to get my protein from real food sources, but sometimes I’m to busy and things like this are a lifesaver.

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 2, 2014 at 8:27 AM

      Yep! They can definitely come in handy sometimes!

      Reply
  15. Jody - Fit at 56 says

    January 2, 2014 at 8:15 AM

    I LOVE easy & no bake!!! 🙂

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 2, 2014 at 8:27 AM

      hope you enjoy them!

      Reply
  16. Brittany @ Delights and Delectables says

    January 2, 2014 at 8:27 AM

    Love these!

    Reply
  17. Heather (Where's the Beach) says

    January 2, 2014 at 8:29 AM

    Awesome – just pinned! Thanks for sharing!! Love how easy these are.

    Reply
  18. Sam @ Better With Sprinkles says

    January 2, 2014 at 8:39 AM

    These look awesome! I’m trying to make more protein bars at home, because buying them definitely gets pricey after a while.

    Reply
  19. Kierston @candyfit says

    January 2, 2014 at 8:41 AM

    There’s always something so appealing about ‘no bake’ 🙂

    Thanks for the delish recipe!

    Reply
  20. Sara @ LovingOnTheRun says

    January 2, 2014 at 8:59 AM

    I have been looking for some great homemade protein bars because my husband LOVES them but they are pricey! I am going to have to give these a try 🙂

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 2, 2014 at 11:00 AM

      let me know what you think!

      Reply
  21. Lindsay and Tim @ Fit with Farrar says

    January 2, 2014 at 9:07 AM

    These look great!!! Thanks so much for sharing the recipe….looking forward to trying them!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 2, 2014 at 11:01 AM

      Hope you like them!

      Reply
  22. Kim @ Hungry Healthy Girl says

    January 2, 2014 at 9:41 AM

    Yum…. these look delicious! I’m not really a fan of protein powders either, but I do love a good bar for a gran-n-go snack.

    Reply
  23. Meredith @ DareYouTo says

    January 2, 2014 at 9:55 AM

    Wow these DO look good! I’m the same way where I’m not huge on protein powders or drinks; I prefer to get my protein from real-food sources. However, there are times when a bar (Especially a homemade one!) comes in handy!!!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 2, 2014 at 11:01 AM

      I agree completely!

      Reply
  24. Angela @ Happy Fit Mama says

    January 2, 2014 at 10:07 AM

    I’ve cut way back on my consumption of protein powders and have been focusing more on real food sources. However, I love homemade protein bars. You can put all your favorite flavors to make the ultimate bar.

    Reply
  25. Lisa says

    January 2, 2014 at 10:49 AM

    Do you think it would still come together nicely if I ground my own oats? Some recipes I have tried in past with my own ground oats haven’t worked out.

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 2, 2014 at 10:51 AM

      that’s what I did! Just ground them up in my food processor.

      Reply
  26. Jill @ Fitness, Health and Happiness says

    January 2, 2014 at 10:50 AM

    Yum! I love having a homemade alternative to the powders and packaged bars.

    Reply
  27. Emily @ The Apron Blog says

    January 2, 2014 at 10:58 AM

    Yum those look really good!

    Random question.. I remember a couple months ago you posted something about an online grocery store that you get healthy snacks and baking products from.. I can’t remember which website it is!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 2, 2014 at 11:02 AM

      Was it swanson vitamins?

      Reply
      • Emily @ The Apron Blog says

        January 2, 2014 at 11:05 AM

        Yes, I think that’s it!

        Reply
  28. Steph says

    January 2, 2014 at 11:17 AM

    Look forward to trying this recipe! Do you crush up the Rice Chex or leave them whole?

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 2, 2014 at 11:18 AM

      I left mine whole. Some get crushed when you’re mixing and pressing into the pan.

      Reply
      • Steph says

        January 2, 2014 at 11:19 AM

        Thanks!

        Reply
  29. Lora @ Crazy Running Girl says

    January 2, 2014 at 11:33 AM

    Yummy!! Great recipe!!

    Reply
  30. Hannah @ CleanEatingVeggieGirl says

    January 2, 2014 at 12:03 PM

    I bet these would be absolutely awesome with Barbara’s Peanut Butter Puffins cereal!!

    Reply
  31. Helen says

    January 2, 2014 at 1:48 PM

    Wow. The protein bars look delicious! I love protein bars but it’s nice to make some homemade ones. You can control what goes in them. =)

    Reply
  32. jobo says

    January 2, 2014 at 2:12 PM

    These look DELISH! I am not a huge protein bar person either but homemade?! sign me up!

    Reply
  33. Kait @ ChickadeeSays says

    January 2, 2014 at 3:21 PM

    My goodness- these look and sound amazing! I’ve pinned them, a must try!

    xx Kait

    Reply
  34. Melissa @ Freeing Imperfections says

    January 2, 2014 at 4:59 PM

    I am admittedly a protein bar addict. Can’t wait to try these!

    Reply
  35. Allison @ Life's a Bowl says

    January 2, 2014 at 5:57 PM

    I can’t stomach protein powder in drinks or pancakes, but maybe in a bar version I could… Because these look delicious!

    Reply
  36. Arman @ thebigmansworld says

    January 2, 2014 at 6:03 PM

    YES! i was awaiting you to post this after seeing it on insta! Stop making so many things, my food prep can only handle so much :p

    Reply
  37. Rushfit says

    January 2, 2014 at 6:14 PM

    Lindsay
    What a great recipe! Simple and nutritious especially after a long run! I’m going to definitely try these out!

    Reply
  38. Sarah Grace says

    January 2, 2014 at 8:32 PM

    I love homemade protein bars! And peanut butter 🙂

    Reply
  39. Kim says

    January 2, 2014 at 9:10 PM

    These look good – they would make great after school snacks for my boys!

    Reply
  40. Andrea @ pencils and pancakes says

    January 2, 2014 at 9:11 PM

    I stopped eating protein bars because of all the weird ingredients! Those look good!

    Reply
  41. Kate @ Coffee with Kate says

    January 2, 2014 at 10:02 PM

    Just got some new Vanilla protein powder. Now I can make these!

    Reply
  42. Lisa says

    January 3, 2014 at 8:37 AM

    I just made them – they are in the freezer now. Anxious to try them as they smell so yummy!!!! Thanks for the recipe 🙂

    Reply
  43. Jennifer says

    January 3, 2014 at 4:03 PM

    These were fantastic!!! I grounded my own oats, used organic almond butter and used organic dark chocolate protein powder instead of vanilla (that’s all I had). These turned out great! My entire family LOVED them!! Thanks for this amazing recipe!! Loved it! Going to make them all the time. Love your website too!! Happy New Year and thanks again!! 🙂

    Reply
  44. Laura @ Mommy Run Fast says

    January 3, 2014 at 7:25 PM

    Yum, Lindsay! I used to make a similar pb-oat crunch bar… I really need to make these!

    Reply
  45. Don says

    January 3, 2014 at 9:20 PM

    Great, another no-bake bar I can try!!! What kind of milk do you use, 2%, 1%, skim or the homo stuff?

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 3, 2014 at 9:34 PM

      I used skim but any should be fine!

      Reply
  46. Amanda- The Nutritionist Reviews says

    January 4, 2014 at 12:17 PM

    I made these and they turned out great! I loved how chewy they are and filling. I used agave instead of honey, almond milk, Nuttzo instead of peanut butter, Cheerios instead of Chex and a mix of almond flour and coconut flour instead of PB. Was very happy with the results.

    Reply
  47. Tina Muir says

    January 5, 2014 at 9:56 AM

    Yummy! They look really good, I have been thinking that I should consume more protein bars (homemade of course) to supplement my training. Thanks for the idea…..I usually agree with you about not liking protein powder, but if you approve…they must be good!

    Reply
  48. Divya Budhraja says

    January 9, 2014 at 5:25 PM

    I will DEF be making these!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 13, 2014 at 6:46 AM

      enjoy! i just made another batch last night!

      Reply
  49. Ann says

    January 13, 2014 at 9:50 AM

    For the oat flour, do you mean 1 cup of oats ground up or grind up oats and measure out 1 cup?

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 13, 2014 at 9:52 AM

      grind up oats and measure out 1 cup

      Reply
  50. Crystal says

    January 30, 2014 at 5:45 PM

    Do you know the nutitional info on these bars?

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 30, 2014 at 7:49 PM

      i don’t have it, sorry! you can always put the recipe into my fitness pal to get it though!

      Reply
  51. Marie says

    January 30, 2014 at 10:58 PM

    These look delicious, Lindsey! I’ve actually never tried using protein powder, but I just might with these. They look like they’d be a great snack to bring along on travels or for my kids when basketball games are during the supper hour and they need something to get them through. Pinning it!

    Reply
  52. Jennifer says

    February 1, 2014 at 11:53 PM

    These bars are fantastic! I made them in a muffin tin for easy measuring. I would be curious about the nutrition info compared to the store protein bars. I did use chocolate protein powder and vanilla soy milk…YUMMY!

    Reply
  53. Jes says

    February 8, 2014 at 10:49 AM

    Great looking recipe, but if I’m being honest I was completely turned off when it read to use the microwave in order to melt ingredients together. I don’t own one because they are so damn toxic to our health!! When I made this, I just combined the peanut butter honey and almond milk, gave it a quick whir in the blender, and voila!! Great recipe, turned out yummy, I just would adjust the microwaving aspect 🙂

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 8, 2014 at 10:51 AM

      Thanks for sharing your opinion. Great to know that it works in a blender. I’m gonna go ahead and leave the microwave directions in there. If people want to find a way around it, they’re more than welcome to- just like you did!

      Reply
  54. Stacey says

    February 15, 2014 at 7:58 PM

    Making these now. Do you happen to know the nutritional information? Fat, calories, protein and fiber?

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 16, 2014 at 2:12 PM

      Nope, I don’t, sorry. But you can always put the recipe into my fitness pal or spark people to find out!

      Reply
  55. Stephanie says

    February 20, 2014 at 5:53 PM

    These are so yummy! I am giving you a long-distance hug for sharing this recipe. I used Rice Krispies, cut the honey to 1 Tbsp., and added 2 Tbsp. of raisins. They taste like those peanut-butter Rice Krispie bars with the chocolate on top that my grandmother used to make. Oh, I also used 1 scoop of vanilla protein and 1 of chocolate. I think it would be really easy to make these 100 different ways. Never thought of grinding up the oats. I was making another recipe that used dates as the “glue” and sweetner – they are delicious but way too sweet as I am really trying to limit sugar.

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 24, 2014 at 10:05 AM

      yay! i’m so glad you liked them!

      Reply
  56. Sarah turner says

    February 24, 2014 at 2:16 AM

    Just made them a second ago they are in freezer as we speak can’t wait to try hoping their awesome xx

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 24, 2014 at 9:56 AM

      hope you enjoy them!

      Reply
  57. Sarah turner says

    February 24, 2014 at 3:05 AM

    Yummmmmmmmmmmmo

    Reply
  58. gh0st says

    March 10, 2014 at 9:05 PM

    added some dried cherries, cocoa nibs and 2 tsp of unsweetened natural cocoa. They’re great.

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      March 11, 2014 at 2:29 PM

      oooh great additions!

      Reply
  59. Kathleen says

    March 17, 2014 at 12:42 AM

    Delicious. Thanks for sharing. I added some unsweetened flaked coconut and chopped almonds instead of the chocolate. Wonderful!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      March 21, 2014 at 10:32 AM

      awesome additions!

      Reply
  60. Carol says

    March 19, 2014 at 3:46 AM

    I just used your recipe as a “base” tonight. I didn’t have chia seeds so I took some almonds and cut them down in the blender. I didn’t have any cereal either, so I used rolled oats. Had plain protein, so I added vanilla to the mixture. I also threw in some ground flax. LOVE LOVE LOVE THEM!!!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      March 21, 2014 at 10:23 AM

      so glad to hear that! your version sounds amazing!

      Reply
  61. David Butterly says

    March 21, 2014 at 5:04 PM

    Well usually spend about 20 pound on a box of protein bars…. Just tried this recipe and now converted…..Taste awsome, thanks x

    Reply
  62. Kathryn Whelan says

    March 28, 2014 at 5:30 PM

    Does anyone know the calorie count per serving for these? They look yummy.

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      March 31, 2014 at 1:29 PM

      i don’t…but you should be able to put the recipe into spark people or my fitness pal to find out!

      Reply
  63. Caryn Fraziwr says

    April 22, 2014 at 6:02 PM

    LOVE these!!!! I just made some and instead of running to the store to get Kind bars, I stayed home and made these instead. I used almond milk and pea protein. They are kick a$$!! I need something to keep me going while in college and I think these will do the trick!

    Reply
  64. Eod Nhoj says

    April 24, 2014 at 11:56 AM

    How long do these last? like an approximate expiry date??

    Reply
    • Katrina says

      June 22, 2014 at 1:42 PM

      Just keep in fridge or freezer and use the same judgment as you would for other foods. I definitely wouldn’t use after 1 week in the fridge.

      Reply
  65. Angela @ Protein Companion says

    May 15, 2014 at 1:02 PM

    Hi Lindsay,
    I’m so glad to find a no-bake recipe that looks and sounds so good, although in my book, chocolate chips should never be optional. A healthy, high-protein way for me to satisfy my sweet tooth.

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      May 22, 2014 at 6:56 PM

      they’re never optional in my book either 🙂

      Reply
  66. Jim Leary says

    May 28, 2014 at 2:35 AM

    These can be REALLY varied. I used vanilla almond milk, and I didn’t have any chex so I used chocolate FiberOne. The protein bar tasted like a peanut butter cup! Also, I drizzed chocolate make from coconut oil, agave syrup and cocoa (which hardens in the freezer.) Delicious and a better value than what I can find at the store. And THANK YOU for the oat flour lesson – never thought of that before.

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      May 29, 2014 at 2:53 PM

      awesome! so glad to hear it!

      Reply
  67. GBeckett says

    June 1, 2014 at 12:57 PM

    These were so easy to make! My daughters and I pulsed a cup of dark chocolate chips (to make them smaller chunks) and added it to the dry mixture. We also used NAVITAS Naturals Superfood Blend (a protein smoothie mix) with Hemp-Cacao-Maca for the protein powder. So fun and easy to make. They taste amazing!!

    Reply
  68. Ashley says

    June 4, 2014 at 9:23 AM

    Hi! These turned out delicious, however mine came out really gooey? I was thinking maybe less honey? What is the texture that these usually turn out like? I was expecting it to be like a cliff bar. I wasn’t able to cut them into squares, we just kinda grabbed pieces and ate them. But, again, very tasty! Thanks!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      June 4, 2014 at 9:34 AM

      Mine usually turn out a bit sticky, but I’m definitely able to form them to the bottom of the pan and cut into bars. I sometimes cut back on the honey and they still taste fine so that might help for you.

      Reply
  69. Katrina says

    June 22, 2014 at 1:39 PM

    *Please don’t rate this recipe until you’ve actually MADE it! In fairness, I’m rating based on an adjusted version, but that’s better than nothing. 🙂

    I’m a vegetarian with a mild dairy allergy (limited, not entirely cut), so protein powder is necessary to support my heavy weight training and active life.

    I cut the PB to 5 Tbsp., used chocolate protein powder and flax seeds (what I had on hand) in lieu of vanilla and chia, added cinnamon and 2 tsp. cocoa. I attempted to get by with more water instead of the milk to make them less perishable, but I’d already cut the PB, so I ended up needing a Tbsp. of vanilla soy milk to get the mix to stick together (made all the difference!). Rolled into 10 balls and flattened with my palms into protein cookies at roughly 150 cals and 10 g of protein each.

    Best tasting and most forgiving protein bar recipe I’ve made! Thanks so much for sharing!

    Reply
    • Katrina says

      June 22, 2014 at 1:47 PM

      OH, and plain Cheerios since I had them on hand instead of the Rice Krispies. 🙂

      Reply
    • Lindsay says

      June 27, 2014 at 10:51 PM

      glad to hear it!

      Reply
  70. Muhammad says

    June 29, 2014 at 3:41 PM

    I love peanut butter and just found another recipe for protella (protein nutella). I may be overdoing it but going to combine your recipe with protella. May just be to sweet for my sweet tooth.

    Reply
  71. Dave colwell says

    August 10, 2014 at 1:27 PM

    Allways bought my bars but thought I would try making them ,so easy and great taste I’m converted I’ll allways make my own from now on

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      August 11, 2014 at 8:37 AM

      yay! glad you liked them!

      Reply
  72. Amy says

    August 15, 2014 at 8:00 AM

    Just made these last night. These are YUMMY! Thanks for the recipe! I will keep this one for sure.

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      August 15, 2014 at 8:01 AM

      so glad you liked them!

      Reply
  73. Michelle says

    October 9, 2014 at 8:55 AM

    any idea of the nutritional breakdown? curious about the macros and the calories.
    thanks.

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      October 9, 2014 at 9:01 AM

      I don’t know it..but you could probably put the recipe into my fitness pal to find out!

      Reply
  74. Julie Gallant says

    November 7, 2014 at 3:38 PM

    Hi,

    I was wondering if you knew the nutritional value on these protein bars?

    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Julie Gallant says

      November 7, 2014 at 3:39 PM

      Sorry just saw the very last comment was about nutritional value! oops my bad.

      Reply
  75. Joe says

    January 20, 2015 at 6:13 PM

    A lot of people have said this LOOKS like a good recipe (and I am by no means doubting!) but I haven’t seen anyone who said it actually tastes good. Do we have anyone who has tasted this recipe other than the author? Much appreciated!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 21, 2015 at 2:22 PM

      i made several batches for Christmas presents for folks at my gym and they were well received. i’ve also received good feedback from readers via social media!

      Reply
  76. Elva says

    January 23, 2015 at 9:39 PM

    I just made these with chocolate protein powder, amazing!! Do they usually keep well in the fridge? I am looking to make these for the week. Do you find they keep for several days to a week? Thank you!!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 23, 2015 at 9:42 PM

      I usually keep mine in the fridge for 4-5 days!

      Reply
  77. Elva says

    January 23, 2015 at 9:41 PM

    These are great! Do they normally keep in the fridge for several days to a week? Thank you!!

    Reply
  78. mneyecatcher says

    January 28, 2015 at 12:57 PM

    Do you have nutritional info on these bars? Protein? Calories? Carbs? Sugar? etc. Might try these as an after weight lifting boost, but really curious what the numbers are. Thanks.

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 29, 2015 at 2:52 PM

      I don’t. But you could easily plug it into My Fitness Pal to find out! Thanks!

      Reply
  79. Jayne says

    February 8, 2015 at 10:23 PM

    Is there a protein powder you recommend? Thanks!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 9, 2015 at 12:57 PM

      i don’t have one i specifically recommend. if you want a plant-based one you could try Vega or Manitoba Harvest!

      Reply
  80. Susan says

    February 17, 2015 at 2:17 PM

    I was thinking of trying this with chocolate protein powder since that’s what I have on hand. We’ll see! Cross your fingers!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      February 19, 2015 at 10:38 AM

      hope they turned out well!

      Reply
  81. Christeen says

    February 28, 2015 at 1:17 AM

    Thanks for sharing this recipe Lindsay! I’ve just made my second batch using this recipe but this time I tripled the recipe and added shredded coconut, pumpkin seeds, and dried cranberries. My boyfriend loves them and I’m glad he’s eating these rather than pre-packaged store bought bars.

    Reply
  82. Kristen says

    March 2, 2015 at 9:31 AM

    Just wondering if you know the nutritional facts on these bars-calories, fat, protein, carbs, ect?

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      March 2, 2015 at 12:48 PM

      i don’t but you can plug into my fitness pal!

      Reply
  83. Dina says

    March 15, 2015 at 9:32 AM

    I was wonder who many calories and grams of protien per serving. They look and sound great

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      March 15, 2015 at 9:03 PM

      i’m not sure but you can plug the recipe into my fitness pal to find out!

      Reply
  84. myranda says

    March 24, 2015 at 2:09 PM

    How big of a difference would leaving the Chia seeds out make? I don’t normally use them, and would rather not need to make an extra purchase.

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      March 24, 2015 at 2:13 PM

      should be fine without them!

      Reply
  85. Victoria M says

    March 26, 2015 at 4:30 PM

    Could I use plain corn flakes as a substitute for the rice checks? I already have a box of those at the house.

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      March 26, 2015 at 4:35 PM

      i would think so!

      Reply
  86. Michelle says

    April 19, 2015 at 11:24 AM

    I skipped the protein powder and replaced the rice cereal with puffed amaranth, which is a protein source. Split into 9 servings, this came to 7.5g protein per serving. MyFitnessPal came up with 14.7g for the original version with 1 cup of whatever whey protein powder it chose – though there is significant variation in protein content in powders, even between whey powders. A serving of my usual whey powder is 11g protein. I increased the honey to 5T. (Calories: original 253, mine 234.)

    I popped the amaranth in my Dutch oven (in a shallow pan, it will just pop right out) a few tablespoons at a time. It looks like very tiny popcorn. 1/4 cup gave me just short of a cup popped. Good quality protein powders are expensive, so this is a frugal alternative, and a good one for anyone not interested in using the powders. I like this nutrtion breakdown for breakfast bars for my 8yo. He doesn’t need Crossfit-level protein content. You could adjust the amaranth vs. oat flour volume to adjust the protein if you want.

    They’re super-delicious -thanks for posting this recipe!

    [WORDPRESS HASHCASH] The poster sent us ‘0 which is not a hashcash value.

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      April 23, 2015 at 9:18 PM

      glad to hear it

      Reply
  87. Elizabeth Shaw says

    November 3, 2015 at 10:22 AM

    Love this!! I agree, everyone is all about the protein bars post workout and as much as I’d like them to eat a Greek yogurt with fruit, it’s convenience and portability sometimes! Great idea for a present… pinned!

    Reply
  88. Rachel Norman says

    November 3, 2015 at 7:15 PM

    These look like something I would eat for dessert! Thanks for sharing an economical alternative 🙂

    Reply
  89. Kecia says

    January 24, 2016 at 11:18 AM

    Hello there…..love your blog. This will be my first time trying these protein bars. Question, do you have an estimate of the calories for each serving using your recipe exactly? Thanks

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      January 24, 2016 at 7:37 PM

      i don’t, but you can always put them into my fitness pal to get an estimate

      Reply
  90. Veronica says

    May 26, 2016 at 10:22 AM

    They look delicious , but how many grams of protein and calories approx. in each bar ?

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      May 26, 2016 at 8:56 PM

      You’ll have to put the recipe into My Fitness Pal or something similar to get that info. Thanks!

      Reply
  91. Anita says

    July 30, 2016 at 10:20 AM

    I amended the recipe a bit by replacing oat flour with quick oats and protein powder with ground flaxseed. I also added some almonds and crushed peanuts. They turned out AMAZING apart from being too crumbly (I blame my irresponsible amendments). Do you happen to have any ideas how I could still firm them up or are they bound to stay crumbly? I read something in the internet about gelatin and then baking it afterwards, could that work?
    This cooking world is still quite new to me..
    Thanks a bunch!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      July 30, 2016 at 11:43 AM

      You may need to increase the amount of honey or milk to help them stick together.

      Reply
  92. Erica says

    May 15, 2019 at 4:36 PM

    Excited to make these! When the recipe says “1.5 cups protein powder (3 heaping scoops)”…which is it? If I use the scoop in my protein powder for “3 heaping scoops” I get less than 1.5 cups. Just wanted to make sure I knew which to use before I wasted 1.5 cups of protein powder if I didn’t need to. Thanks!

    Reply
    • Lindsay says

      May 16, 2019 at 7:12 AM

      the correct amount is 1.5 cups.

      Reply
  93. Fit says

    June 2, 2019 at 9:40 PM

    YUM, I’ve made these a few times now. So simple and delish. The first time I added the choccy but it’s not essential I find them sweet enough on their own.

    Reply
  94. Mariette says

    August 31, 2019 at 4:57 PM

    Just took mine out of the freezer after 20 minutes, attempted to cut them and the mix crumbled. :/ I’m putting them back in the freezer for another 20 minutes to see if that helps. Hope these work out! Otherwise, I may need to try again and adjust the the quantities of some ingredients.

    Reply
  95. Stephany Brisco says

    September 25, 2019 at 12:24 PM

    These were so good! I used Muscle Milk vanilla protein powder, just FYI. I did add more oat flower and portion powder like you suggested if we needed to. The batter was never crumbly though, but sticky. I still need to wait for them to freeze and add the chocolate but I’d eat then all day the way they are now. Thank you!

    Reply

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Lindsay Livingston The Lean Green Bean Healthy Living Tips and Tricks

I'm a Registered Dietitian and mom of three from Columbus, Ohio. I use this blog to share simple, healthy recipes, nutrition tips, and an honest glimpse of motherhood!

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