Craft the perfect snack with these Ultimate Protein Trail Mix Bars, where the crunch of nuts meets the chewiness of dried fruits, all bound together with the wholesome goodness of rolled oats. Infused with a generous dose of protein and sweetened naturally with pure maple syrup, these bars are a masterclass in balancing nutrition and taste. Ideal for those on the go, these bars deliver a satisfying bite that's not only nourishing but also irresistibly delicious.
Why You'll Love This:
These bars are a snack lover's dream, offering a unique blend of textures and flavors that satisfy your sweet tooth while providing a substantial protein kick. Whether you're powering through a busy day, fueling a workout, or looking for a healthy treat, these bars have it all: crunchy, chewy, and utterly satisfying. Plus, they're gluten-free and customizable with your choice of protein powder and nuts, making them a versatile option for all dietary needs.
Perfect Occasion:
These Protein Trail Mix Bars are your best companion for any activity. Pack them for hikes, stash them in your gym bag, or keep them on hand for busy days when you need a quick and fulfilling snack. They're also great for breakfast on the go or as a nutritious addition to lunchboxes for a midday energy boost. With their appealing taste and texture, they're a hit among both adults and kids, making them a family-friendly choice for snacking.
Decoration Tips:
For an extra touch of decadence, drizzle the chilled bars with melted dark chocolate or a light glaze of almond butter mixed with a splash of maple syrup. Sprinkle the top with a pinch of coarse sea salt or some cinnamon to enhance their flavor profile. You can also press additional dried fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips into the top before chilling for a visually appealing and extra flavorful finish.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups gluten-free rolled oats
- 1 cup cashews
- 1 cup pecans
- 1 cup roasted almonds
- 1 cup coconut flakes
- 1/2 cup plain or flavored protein powder of your choice
- 1/3 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries or cherries (opt for refined sugar-free if desired)
- 1/2 cup creamy 100% almond butter
- 3/4 cup milk (any kind you prefer)
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup pure maple syrup, adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon pink salt, to taste
- 3/4 to 1 cup dark chocolate chips (dairy-free and refined sugar-free if preferred)
Directions:
- In a food processor, pulse the oats, cashews, pecans, almonds, and coconut flakes until chopped but not fine.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the almond butter, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add the chopped nuts, protein powder, pumpkin seeds, and dried fruits to the wet mixture. Stir until well combined. Adjust the texture as necessary by adding more protein powder if too wet or more almond butter, maple syrup, or a splash of milk if too dry.
- Press the mixture firmly into a parchment-lined rectangular dish (about 9x13 inches).
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 60 minutes.
- Once set, remove and cut into bars. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Enjoy the delightful blend of crunchy, chewy, and satisfying textures in these Protein Trail Mix Bars, a perfect treat for any time of day.