These protein cereal bars are truly so fun, made with ingredients you can pronounce, and packed with protein! Grab your cheerios and some nut butter and let's get baking!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
These Protein Cereal Bars are:
- Quick and Easy: No baking required and ready in under 20 minutes!
- Nutritious: Packed with protein and healthy fats to keep you energized throughout the day.
- Customizable: Use your favorite nut butter and add-ins to make them your own.
- Perfect for On-the-Go: Great for breakfast, a snack, or a post-workout treat
What You Need for Protein Cereal Bars
- Cheerios: Cheerios or any whole-grain cereal serve as the base of these bars, providing a crunchy texture and a wholesome grain.
- Almond Butter: This adds creaminess, healthy fats, and a delicious nutty flavor. You can substitute with any nut or seed butter if desired.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Acts as a natural sweetener and helps bind the bars together. Both options add a different but equally delightful flavor.
- Vanilla Protein Powder: Adds a boost of protein to keep you full and energized. Choose a high-quality vanilla protein powder for the best results.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet, aromatic note.
- Salt: A pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness and enhances the flavors
- Chocolate Topping: A mix of melted chocolate and coconut oil creates a delicious topping that takes these bars to the next level.
Add-In Ideas
- Chocolate chips: Wanna have a little fun? Toss in some chocolate chips for an extra burst of chocolate goodness.
- Nuts: Go nuts!!! For real. Throw in your fave nuts like cashews or almonds for an added crunch.
- Marshmallow: Mini marshmallows are a great gooey addition.
Tips for Making Protein Cereal Bars
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your nut butter and sweeteners are fresh for the best taste and texture.
- Mix Thoroughly: Make sure the nut butter mixture fully coats the cereal for even distribution and to help the bars stick together.
- Cool Before Adding Chocolate Chips: If adding chocolate chips, let the mixture cool slightly to prevent the chips from melting completely.
- Press Firmly: Press the mixture firmly into the pan to help the bars hold together once set.
- Chill Properly: Allow the bars to chill completely before cutting to ensure they hold their shape.
Storage and Freezer Instructions
Refrigeration: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This helps keep them firm and fresh.
Freezing: These bars freeze well! Once the bars are fully set and cut, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let them thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
If you make these Protein Cereal Bars, I would really appreciate a comment and rating down below, under the recipe card. Don’t forget to take a picture and tag me over on Instagram, Tik Tok, or Pinterest. For more ideas, check out my Snack Recipes page.
Protein Cereal Bars
Ingredients
- 3 cups cheerios (or any whole-grain cereal)
- 1/2 cup creamy almond butter (or your favorite nut butter)
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Set aside.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the almond butter and honey (or maple syrup). Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and vanilla protein powder. Mix until fully incorporated.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the Cheerios. Pour the almond butter mixture over the Cheerios and gently stir until the cereal is evenly coated.
- If using mini chocolate chips, let the mixture cool slightly, then fold in the chocolate chips. This helps prevent them from melting completely.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or your hands (lightly greased) to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan.
- Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour, or until the bars are firm and set.
- Once set, lift the mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and place it on a cutting board. Cut into bars of your desired size.
