Description
These Homemade Protein Snickers Bars are a delicious, healthier twist on the classic candy bar, featuring a play-dough textured almond butter and pea protein nougat, a rich homemade caramel with chopped almonds, all coated in melted dark chocolate. Perfect for a protein-packed snack or treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Nougat
- 1/2 cup almond butter (no-stir, unsalted, unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup pea protein (50g)
- 1 Tbsp maple syrup
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 5 Tbsp water
Caramel
- 1/2 cup coconut cream
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup almonds, chopped
Coating
- 6 oz dark chocolate
- 2 tsp coconut oil (optional)
- Flaked sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Nougat: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the almond butter, pea protein, maple syrup, and salt. Mix thoroughly, then gradually add the water one tablespoon at a time until the mixture achieves a play-dough-like consistency suitable for shaping.
- Make the Caramel: In a small saucepan, combine the coconut cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Place the pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Add the Chopped Almonds: Chop the almonds finely, sprinkle them evenly over the caramel layer, and gently press them into the caramel to bind the nuts into the layer.
- Freeze to Set: Transfer the caramel and nougat layers to a container and freeze overnight or for at least 4 hours to allow the caramel to fully set and firm up.
- Coat in Dark Chocolate: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the dark chocolate with the coconut oil, stirring frequently to create a smooth, glossy coating. Once melted, dip or spread the chocolate over the set bars evenly, adding flaked sea salt if desired for extra flavor.
- Store Bars: Place the coated bars in the refrigerator or freezer to allow the chocolate to harden and keep the bars fresh until ready to eat.
Notes
- Adding water gradually to the nougat mixture is key to achieving the right consistency similar to play-dough for easy shaping.
- Be sure to stir the caramel mixture frequently to prevent burning while it boils.
- Freezing the bars for at least 4 hours ensures the caramel sets properly before chocolate coating.
- Coconut oil in the chocolate coating is optional but helps create a smoother melt and shiny finish.
- The flaked sea salt topping is optional but adds a lovely contrast to the sweetness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: protein bars, homemade snack, almond butter, pea protein, healthy caramel, dark chocolate, gluten free snack
