11 No-Bake Protein Bar Recipes | Healthy Homemade Protein Bars (2024)

Nov 11, 2014

Dairy FreeGluten FreeHigh FiberHigh ProteinLow CarbLow FatRawSugar FreeVegan

Tired of buying protein bars from the store and shelling out all that cash for them? Then make protein bars at home! Here are 11 popular protein bar recipes that I’ve posted on the blogover the years — they’re all no-bake, ultra fudgy, and perfectly sweet. You’d never know they’re refined sugar free, gluten free, vegan, and all natural. Yup, that means there are absolutely no preservatives, high-fructose corn syrup, or artificial flavorings in these homemade protein bar recipes.

This is the perfect time to announce thatthe DIY Protein Bars Cookbookis officially PUBLISHED!

*happy dances*

This was a long time coming. I poured my heart and soul into this book, and I could not be happier to hold these copies in my hand 🙂

The DIY Protein Bars Cookbookis a collection of 48 easy, healthy no-bake protein bar recipes!

11 No-Bake Protein Bar Recipes | Healthy Homemade Protein Bars (1)

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11 No-Bake Protein Bar Recipes | Healthy Homemade Protein Bars (2)

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From Peanut Butterto S’mores, from Red Velvetto Death By Chocolate(and soooo many more), you’ll be sure to find a favorite. Or three. Or four dozen. 😉

Words cannot even describe how amazing these homemade protein bars are!

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And there are options for everyone — gluten free protein bars, vegan protein bars, low carb protein bars, etc. Each protein bar recipe is not only healthier than storebought, but they’re cheaper too.

Yes, for real. I even did a cost comparison analysis in the book — each bar costs just a little over $1 to make (anything around $1.12 to be exact!), which means you can save up to $2.07 PER protein bar by going the DIY route.

*jaw drops to floor*

Anyways, enough talk. Here are all the protein bar recipes I’ve posted to the blog over the years.

11 No-Bake Protein Bar Recipes | Healthy Homemade Protein Bars (4)

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These are literally like brownies — fudgy, sweet, chocolatey… except they don’t require any baking! Oh, and they’re actually good for you too. This post also includes a FREE recipe printable, plus a cooking video showing you how to make these yourself!

I also based these Black Velvet DIY Protein Barsoff this recipe.

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Talk. About.Fudgy. These Peanut Butter DIY Protein Bars arepacked with peanut butter flavor, kind of like, you know… peanut butter out of the jar? Don’t judge me! We’ve allll been there.

Be sure to check out my too!

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Are you craving brownies? Yes? Okay, me too. These Triple Chocolate Fudge Protein Brownieswill satisfy your every chocolate/sugar/dessert/brownie craving andmore. They’ll pretty much restore your faith in everything.

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Cookie Dough DIY Protein Bars?!? Hell yes. I’ll take seven. These are fudgy, sweet, buttery and rich, just like cookie dough, but without the white flour, white sugar, butter, and eggs. There’s really nothing better than protein cookie dough guys. Y’all need this in yo life.

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Ben & Jerry’s Chubby Hubby Ice Cream is loved by all. And so are these Chubby Hubby DIY Protein Bars. They’re packed with peanut butter, pretzels and chocolate chips (and none of the white sugar, high-fructose corn syrup, preservatives and artificial flavorings).

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Wanna feel like royalty? Make theseMillionaire’s DIY Protein Bars. They have a rich, almond butter fudge protein base, a layer of liquid gold caramel, and a thick shell of decadent dark chocolate. That’s as rich as things can get.

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Protein-packed candy bars? Um, I’ll take seven of these as well. And to-go, please. Because I’m not sharing.

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Cinnamon spice and everything nice! Wait, no, it’s cinnamon spice and everything nice, healthy, nutritious and delicious. And packed with protein, of course!

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Red Velvet. Fudge. Protein Bars.

Need Isay more? 😉

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If you like matcha, then these are for you. It’s got all the flavor of a cup of matcha green tea, justin the form of a fudgy protein bar!

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Do you like/love-so-much-you-want-to-marry Nutella? Oh my gosh! Me too. That’s why these Nutella DIY Protein Bars are one of the top 10 recipes on this blog!

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So, um… are you drooling? Because I’m drooling. Like, a lot. Thank goodness I have a stash (aka a lifetime supply) of protein bars in my freezer. Whichis actually kinda dangerous becausemy freezer is about 15 feet away from me… hold on, I’ll be right back.

*nom nom nom*

Okay, I’m back 😉

Anyways, I hope you enjoyed this protein bar recipe roundup! If you’re a protein bar addict (like me), then I think you’ll fall in love with the DIY Protein Bars Cookbook.

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It warms my heart to know that thousands of people around the world have a copy of my book in their very own homes, make my recipes, and send photos of their homemade creations to me <3

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Be happy.

Live fully.

Eat homemade protein bars.

(And leave none for Gretchen Wieners, bye)

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– Jess

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11 No-Bake Protein Bar Recipes | Healthy Homemade Protein Bars (12)

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11 No-Bake Protein Bar Recipes | Healthy Homemade Protein Bars (2024)

FAQs

What is the best binder for protein bars? ›

One ingredient you find in nearly every homemade protein bar is nut or seed butter. It adds yummy flavor and a luscious smooth or crunchy texture (depending on your style) and helps bind the bar together.

Is it cheaper to make your own protein bars? ›

Homemade protein bars are much more cost-effective than buying protein bars at the store. A single protein bar can range from $. 99 to $3.99. This entire recipe (for 16 bars) will cost you less than $5 and you likely already have these ingredients on hand!

Should a 13 year old eat protein bars? ›

Hes made is that while protein bars should be fine for children if not eaten in excess, too much protein in the diet should be watched, as it could cause kidney stones. Overall, protein bars should be OK to give to children as an occasional snack.

What is the ingredient criteria for the best protein bars? ›

Here are a few things to keep in mind:
  • Carbohydrates. A low carb bar should be less than 20 grams per bar.
  • Protein. Look for ingredients like whey and pea proteins.
  • Fiber. Look for bars with three grams or more per serving. ...
  • Fats. ...
  • Oils. ...
  • Sugar.
Sep 24, 2018

What ingredient acts as a binder? ›

Binders are any ingredient that can help a mixture hold its shape or remain bound together. Traditional binding agents include flour and eggs. The most commonly used food binder is flour. Flour is created by grinding raw grains or roots into a powder and then served in diverse cuisines.

Why can't kids have protein bars? ›

“So when parents give these bars to their kids as snacks, it can often lead to too many calories in the diet.” She also said that she would never recommend a protein bar that is made with artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols. Another important point Dr.

What makes a protein bar healthy? ›

In addition to protein, protein bars usually contain other nutrients like vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and fiber. Ingredients in protein bars vary widely, but many contain nutrient-rich ingredients like nuts and dried fruits. Many protein bars are made with added nutrients, including B vitamins and fiber powders.

What are the symptoms of too many protein bars? ›

Because they are poorly digestible, sugar alcohols can also cause gastrointestinal side effects including abdominal pain, bloating, and gas. Sugar alcohols can have a laxative-like effect on the intestines and cause diarrhea.

Is it OK to eat a protein bar everyday? ›

A closer look at the ingredients and sugar levels in some of these bars can make you question whether they're a good idea to eat every day. While there's no problem with the occasional sugary snack or 'unhealthy' treat, eating certain types of protein bars every day might be problematic long term.

Are homemade protein bars worth it? ›

Whether it's to build muscle, fuel your workout, keep you feeling full between meals, or support weight loss, protein bars can be a great addition to your diet. There are many protein-rich ingredients that work well in homemade bars, and there's a good chance you can find at least a few that you enjoy.

Is it OK to live off protein bars? ›

While protein bars can be enjoyed regularly, consuming them as meal replacements or as your primary protein source isn't recommended. Pay close attention to nutrition labels, as many protein bars contain added sugars, saturated fats and other low-nutrient ingredients.

Can a 4 year old eat a protein bar? ›

Can kids eat protein bars? Yes, kids can eat protein bars, but it is important to consider a few factors before incorporating them into a child's diet. Protein bars can be a convenient snack option, especially for active kids or those with busy schedules.

Can my 4 year old have a protein bar? ›

Protein bars are great for your little ones! While they are not a meal replacement, they are a much healthier snack alternative than most convenient store-bought options. Protein bars are quick, easy and a generally healthy way to satisfy your kid's cravings.

Which are the healthiest protein bars? ›

10 Best Protein Bars
  • Best soft bar: Truwomen Trubar | Skip to review.
  • Best plant-based: Aloha | Skip to review.
  • Best for people on a low FODMAP diet: GoMacro | Skip to review.
  • Best for weight watching: No Cow | Skip to review.
  • Best for a gluten-free diet: RXBAR | Skip to review.
  • Best for a keto diet: think! (
Sep 26, 2023

What is the best binding agent for granola bars? ›

Honey: Since it's a granola bar, refined sugar is not used in the recipe as it's meant to be healthy. So to provide appropriate sweetness, honey is used. Also, honey acts as the primary binding agent.

How do I choose a good binder? ›

You can check if your binder fits well by putting two fingers in between the garment and the ribs. If the fingers fit with ease and are not restricted you know there's enough space for you to breathe comfortably. If you can't fit two fingers in there you should probably size up.

What is the best food binder? ›

For brevity, here are some of the most popular ones:
  • Cracker crumbs.
  • Eggs.
  • Evaporated milk.
  • Gelatin.
  • Ground flax.
  • Guar gum.
  • Oatmeal.
  • Milk.
Aug 17, 2021

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