Description
These Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Protein Bars offer a delicious and nutritious snack option that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and chocolate with a boost of plant-based protein. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, these bars are perfect for a post-workout treat or a healthy on-the-go snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Base 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
Topping Ingredients
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 2 Tbsp almond butter
Instructions
- Prepare Pan: Line an 8″ x 4″ loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, almond butter, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth and fully blended.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the plant-based vanilla protein powder, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until the dough forms a thick, playdough-like consistency.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the miniature dark chocolate chips into the dough to distribute evenly.
- Press Base: Firmly press the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, ensuring an even layer. Place the pan in the freezer to chill while preparing the topping.
- Melt Topping: In a small saucepan over low heat or in the microwave at 20-second intervals, melt the dark chocolate chips. Once melted, stir in the almond butter until smooth.
- Apply Topping: Remove the pan from the freezer and pour the chocolate topping over the base. Spread it evenly to cover the entire surface and edges.
- Chill Bars: Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour to set the chocolate topping; overnight chilling is preferable for best results.
- Cut Bars: Once firm, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into 12 bars or desired sizes.
- Store Properly: Keep the bars in a sealed, airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use a plant-based protein powder to keep these bars vegan and dairy-free.
- Freezing the base before adding the chocolate topping helps create a clean, firm layer.
- These bars are best enjoyed chilled for optimal texture and flavor.
- You can substitute maple syrup with your favorite liquid sweetener such as agave or honey if not strictly vegan.
- Store bars in the fridge for up to 10 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pumpkin protein bars, vegan protein bars, healthy snacks, chocolate chip bars, plant-based protein
