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To make these yummy no-bake cookies and cream protein bars, you will need: - 1¾ cups rolled oats - 1 cup vanilla protein powder - ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder - ½ cup almond butter (or any nut/seed butter of choice) - ¼ cup honey or maple syrup - ½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based) - 1 cup crushed cookie pieces (like chocolate sandwich cookies) - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - Pinch of salt You can swap some ingredients to fit your needs or taste. Here are some ideas: - Nut Butter: Use peanut butter or sunflower seed butter if you prefer. - Sweetener: Maple syrup works great if you want a vegan option. - Milk: Any milk works, including coconut or oat milk. - Protein Powder: Try chocolate protein powder for a richer flavor. - Cookies: Use any cookie you love, like Oreos or vanilla wafers. These bars pack a punch of nutrition. Here’s a rough breakdown per bar (based on 12 servings): - Calories: Approximately 150 - Protein: About 8 grams - Carbohydrates: Around 20 grams - Fat: Roughly 6 grams - Fiber: About 3 grams These protein bars are a great treat before or after workouts. They give you energy and taste amazing! First, get your 8-inch square baking pan. Line it with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging over the edges. This will help you lift the bars out later. Next, grab a large mixing bowl. Add 1¾ cups of rolled oats. Then, add 1 cup of vanilla protein powder, and ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder. Don’t forget a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture well. Make sure you break up any clumps. In another bowl, mix the wet items. Add ½ cup of almond butter, ¼ cup of honey (or maple syrup), ½ cup of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Blend until it’s smooth and creamy. This step is key for a great texture. Now, pour the wet mixture into the dry one. Mix them together well. If the mix feels too dry, add a bit more milk. If it’s too wet, toss in more oats. Gently fold in 1 cup of crushed cookie pieces. Make sure they spread evenly. Then, transfer this mix to your lined pan. Press it down firmly. Use a spatula or your hands, but wet them a little to avoid sticking. Cover the pan with plastic wrap or foil. Place it in the fridge for at least 2 hours. Once set, lift the bars out using the parchment. Cut them into squares or rectangles, based on your preference. To get the best texture, you need to mix your dry and wet ingredients well. Start with the dry mix. If it feels too dry, add a bit more milk. If it’s too wet, just add more oats. The mixture should be sticky but not runny. This balance helps the bars hold together when cut. For a fun look, arrange the bars on a colorful platter. You can sprinkle extra crushed cookie pieces on top. Adding a drizzle of melted dark chocolate can make them look fancy. This small touch adds a wow factor and makes them more tempting. To keep your bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. They do well in the fridge for about a week. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each bar in plastic wrap before putting them in a freezer bag. This way, they stay fresh, and you can grab one anytime! {{image_2}} You can mix up the flavor of these protein bars easily. Try using chocolate protein powder for a richer taste. You can swap cocoa powder with carob powder for a different twist. For a fruity flavor, add dried fruit or swap in vanilla extract for almond extract. You can even add a pinch of espresso powder for a coffee kick. Feel free to switch out ingredients based on what you have. If you need a nut-free option, use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter. For a vegan version, replace honey with agave syrup. You can also use quick oats if you want a smoother texture. If you don’t have milk, try coconut milk or any plant-based milk. You can make these bars even healthier with some add-ins. Consider adding chia seeds or hemp seeds for extra protein and fiber. Ground flaxseed can boost omega-3 fatty acids. You can also mix in some mini chocolate chips or extra crushed cookies for added flavor. Adding nut pieces like walnuts or almonds gives a nice crunch and more nutrients. To keep your no-bake cookies and cream protein bars fresh, store them correctly. Place them in an airtight container. This helps to keep them from drying out. If you stack the bars, use parchment paper between layers. This prevents sticking and keeps them neat. These protein bars stay good for about one week in the fridge. If stored properly, they can hold their taste and texture. After a week, their quality may drop, but they are still safe to eat. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before consuming. For longer storage, freeze the protein bars. Wrap each bar in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, they can last for up to three months. When ready to eat, let them thaw in the fridge for a few hours or at room temperature for quick enjoyment. Yes, you can use any nut or seed butter you like. Almond butter, peanut butter, or sunflower seed butter works well. Each will change the flavor a bit, so choose what you enjoy most. Once the bars are chilled and firm, lift them from the pan using the parchment overhang. Place them on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut them into rectangles or squares. Yes, you can make them vegan! Just use maple syrup instead of honey. Also, choose a plant-based protein powder. Almond butter is already vegan, so no changes needed there. If you don't have protein powder, you can use ground oats or a nut flour. This may change the texture a bit, but it will still taste great. You can add nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for extra flavor. Try using different cookie flavors or add spices like cinnamon. Get creative and make it your own! You learned about making protein bars with simple, healthy ingredients. We discussed how to prepare, mix, and assemble them step by step. You now have tips on consistency, presentation, and storage. Plus, we explored flavor and ingredient variations. Remember, these bars can be customized to fit your needs and preferences. Enjoy creating your own tasty snacks that keep you fueled and satisfied!

No-Bake Cookies and Cream Protein Bars

Satisfy your sweet tooth with these delicious No-Bake Cookies and Cream Protein Bars! Packed with rolled oats, protein powder, and cookie goodness, these treats are quick to make and perfect for a healthy snack. In just 15 minutes of prep, you can enjoy a nutritious indulgence that’s easy to customize. Click through to discover the full recipe and learn how to make these irresistible bars today!
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Ingredients
  

1¾ cups rolled oats

1 cup vanilla protein powder

½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

½ cup almond butter (or any nut/seed butter of choice)

¼ cup honey or maple syrup

½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

1 cup crushed cookie pieces (such as chocolate sandwich cookies)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

Instructions
 

Prepare Your Pan: Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal. Leave some overhang for easy lifting later.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to ensure there are no clumps.

      Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

        Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly. If the mixture is too dry, add a bit more milk; if too wet, add more oats.

          Add Cookies: Gently fold in the crushed cookie pieces, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

            Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and press down firmly to create an even layer. Use a spatula or your hands (with a little water to prevent sticking) to ensure it's compact.

              Chill: Cover the pan with plastic wrap or foil and place in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set.

                Cut and Serve: Once chilled and firm, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into rectangular bars or squares as desired.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes | Servings: 12 bars

                    - Presentation Tips: Arrange the bars on a platter and garnish with additional crushed cookie pieces for a decorative touch. You can also drizzle with a bit of melted dark chocolate for an extra indulgent look!