Vegan Chocolate Chai Protein Bars
Try this Vegan Chocolate Chai Protein Bars recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Vegan Chocolate Chai Protein Bars recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ginger
- 1/2 tsp cardamom
- 1/4 cup almond meal
- 1/4 nutmeg
- 2 tbs coconut flour
- 1 tbs coconut oil melted
- 3/4 cup mrm veggie vanilla protein (about 2 scoops)
- 2 tbs cacao powder (or cocoa)
- 1/8 loves
- 1/2 cup sunflower butter (or other natrual nut butter)
- 3 tbs raw honey (or brown rice syrup if strictly vegan)
- 3 tbs unsweetened non-dairy milk (i used cashew)
- 3 tbs dairy-free mini chocolate chips (or regular)
- 1 tsp extra virgin coconut oil
- 2 tbs hemp hearts
- Carbohydrate 2.54306643242738 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 6.22258400099221 g
- Fiber 1.32605495005306 g
- Protein 0.915874800426036 g
- Saturated Fat 4.52522995007491 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (10g)
- Sodium 2.17073000002008 mg
- Sugar 1.21701148237432 g
- Trans Fat 0.37370450005481 g
- Calories 66 calories
Step-by-step
- Line a bread pan with parchment paper
- In a large bowl, combine protein powder, almond meal, coconut flour, cacao powder, and spices. Stir until well mixed and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, add sunflower butter, honey, and melted coconut oil and stir until well combined.
- Add sunflower butter mixture to large bowl of dry ingredients, and gently stir. Mix will be dry and take a while to come together. Add one tablespoon of milk at a time, until mixture forms into crumbled dough texture (see picture in post).
- Use your hands to make sure everything is well mixed at the end.
- Press mixture into prepared pan with slightly wet hands. Flatten as much as you can. I then used the overhang of parchment paper to press and get really flat. (See picture in post.)
- In a small microwave safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and coconut oil together, 10-30 seconds, in increments, until chocolate is completely melted.
- Pour melted chocolate over bars and sprinkle with hemp hearts.
- Place bars in freezer for 30 minutes, or refrigerator for 1 hour to set.
- Lift parchment paper from pan and cut into 10 bars.
- Store bars in airtight container in fridge up to 2 weeks, and in freezer well wrapped for up to 3 months.
- I like to individually wrap bars and store in fridge and/or freezer for a quick snack or easy lunch packing.
Vegan Chocolate Chai Protein Bars: A Busy Woman's Best Friend
As a working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and keeping a healthy meal plan on track feels like running a marathon every day. That’s why I’m constantly on the lookout for quick, nutritious, and delicious snacks that can fuel my busy life. Enter these Vegan Chocolate Chai Protein Bars – a game-changer in my kitchen and my energy levels.
These bars aren't just a convenient snack; they're packed with wholesome ingredients that keep me feeling full and energized throughout the day. The rich, decadent chocolate flavor satisfies my sweet tooth without the guilt of processed sugars. The subtle warmth of the chai spices adds a comforting touch, perfect for those hectic afternoons when I need a little pick-me-up. And the added protein ensures I have sustained energy, rather than that mid-afternoon crash so many of us experience.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. It’s a straightforward process, easily manageable even on the busiest of days. I love how the recipe allows for customization. If you prefer a different type of nut butter, feel free to substitute! Want to experiment with different spices? Go for it! The possibilities are endless.
Why I love this recipe:
- Quick and Easy: The recipe is straightforward and takes minimal time to prepare.
- Healthy and Nutritious: It's packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
- Delicious and Satisfying: The combination of chocolate, chai, and hemp hearts is irresistible.
- Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to your liking.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store them for grab-and-go snacks or lunches.
These bars have become a staple in my lunch bag and a go-to snack after a long day at the office or a busy day chasing after my kids. They're a perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition, proving that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or time-consuming. And the best part? The entire family enjoys them, making them a versatile addition to our snack repertoire.
The convenience of having these bars readily available in my fridge is invaluable. It eliminates the temptation to reach for less healthy options when hunger strikes. They're the perfect antidote to the afternoon slump, providing a sustained energy boost without the jitters of sugary snacks. Plus, they're incredibly portable; perfect for tossing into my gym bag or for those days when I'm on the run.
Tips for Success:
- Use good quality ingredients: The flavor of these bars is directly related to the quality of your ingredients. Opt for organic and high-quality ingredients whenever possible.
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing can make the bars tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan: This will ensure that the bars hold their shape.
- Cool the bars completely before cutting: This prevents them from crumbling.
- Store properly: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer to maintain their freshness.
These Vegan Chocolate Chai Protein Bars are more than just a recipe; they're a solution to the everyday challenges of busy modern life. They're a delicious, healthy, and convenient way to fuel your body and satisfy your cravings, all while fitting seamlessly into even the most demanding schedules. So next time you're looking for a quick, satisfying, and healthy snack, give this recipe a try. You won't regret it!
Variations:
- Add nuts: Chopped nuts or seeds can add extra texture and flavor.
- Use different spices: Experiment with other spices like cinnamon, cloves, or nutmeg.
- Add dried fruit: Dried cranberries, cherries, or blueberries can add sweetness and texture.
- Use different protein powder: Try different protein powders for a unique flavor profile.
I encourage you to adapt this recipe to your own taste and preferences. The possibilities are endless, and the result will always be a delicious and nutritious treat!
