Dessert

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Protein Bars Recipe

ByMarina Montclair November 16, 2025November 16, 2025

Introduction

These Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Protein Bars are a delicious and nutritious snack perfect for busy days or post-workout fuel. Combining the warm flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon with rich dark chocolate, they offer a satisfying treat that’s also packed with protein.

The image shows several thick, square bars stacked on a white marbled surface. Each bar has three visible layers: a dark, smooth chocolate layer on top, a thick, light brown cookie dough layer with chocolate chips in the middle, and a dark brown base at the bottom. One bar is placed on top of another, revealing its chewy cookie texture inside. The overall look is rich and dense with glossy chocolate on top and soft, chunky cookie dough below. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 cup almond butter (just dry roasted almonds)
1/2 cup organic pumpkin puree
2 Tbsp coconut oil, melted
2 Tbsp maple syrup (or favorite liquid sweetener)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup plant based vanilla protein powder (50g)*
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup miniature dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
2 Tbsp almond butter (for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Line an 8″ x 4″ loaf pan with parchment paper and set aside.
Step 2: In a medium mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, almond butter, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir well until fully blended.
Step 3: Add protein powder, cinnamon, and salt to the wet mixture. Mix until the dough is thick and has a playdough-like texture.
Step 4: Fold miniature dark chocolate chips into the batter evenly.
Step 5: Firmly press the base mixture into the lined loaf pan. Place the pan in the freezer while preparing the chocolate topping.
Step 6: Melt the dark chocolate chips in a small saucepan over low heat or in the microwave in 20-second intervals. Stir until smooth, then mix in the 2 Tbsp almond butter.
Step 7: Remove the base from the freezer and pour the chocolate topping over it, smoothing out so it covers all sides of the pan.
Step 8: Refrigerate the bars for at least one hour to set; overnight chilling is recommended for best results.
Step 9: Once firm, remove the bars from the pan and cut into 12 bars or your preferred size.
Step 10: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, try using sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter.
Swap maple syrup for honey or agave syrup to change the sweetness profile.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon for a spicier pumpkin flavor.
Use a high-quality dark chocolate to enhance the topping’s richness.

Storage

Keep the bars stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. For longer storage, freeze them and thaw in the fridge before eating. To enjoy them softer, allow bars to come to room temperature or microwave briefly before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows two thick square slices of a layered dessert placed on a light wooden board, set against a white marbled background. The bottom layer is a dense, light brown base with visible dark chocolate chips mixed throughout. On top of this base is a smooth, rich-looking layer of bright orange peanut butter filling. The dessert is finished with a firm, evenly spread dark chocolate layer crowning the top. One square is stacked on top of the other, with the top slice slightly tilted to reveal the layers inside. In the background, parts of more dessert pieces are visible, creating a cozy and appetizing scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of protein powder?

Yes, you can substitute with any plant-based or whey protein powder. Just keep in mind that texture and flavor might slightly vary depending on the protein used.

Are these bars suitable for meal replacement?

These protein bars are great as a snack or post-workout refuel but may not provide all the nutrients needed for a complete meal. Pair them with a piece of fruit or yogurt for a balanced option.