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.

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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

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 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

Is it cheaper to make your own protein bars? ›

Is it cheaper to make your own Protein Bars? Absolutely! Making your own protein bars is much cheaper. Initially, the ingredients will cost more upfront, but with the amount you can make with those ingredients, homemade bars will end up much cheaper.

What are the side effects of too many protein bars? ›

You may find that getting such a high amount of protein from a processed source makes you feel sluggish or nauseous. You may also find that the artificial sweeteners and/or sugar alcohols found in many protein bars cause unpleasant side effects, like headaches.

How bad is sugar alcohol in protein bars? ›

Sugar alcohols are more often seen in sugar-free products because they have fewer calories and don't impact blood sugar levels as much. However, for some people, sugar alcohols are difficult to digest and can cause bloating, gas, and diarrhea.

Is it OK to eat protein bars everyday? ›

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.

Are protein bars better than eggs? ›

The Truth About Protein Shakes and Bars

They also are very often high in sugar, having as much as a soda or candy bar. And to top it off, when it comes to total protein count, protein bars and shakes often come in equal or even behind easy, popular foods like eggs and yogurt.

Are protein bars good for elderly? ›

Older adults need to up their protein intake, and protein bars can help. But not all protein bars are created equal. Here are some top choices to try.

What is a good binder for protein bars? ›

Overall, raisins are an excellent binder that perform well when used in protein bar applications and could be used as a binder in many other applications. BENCHTOP PROCESSING METHOD: In a food processor or buffalo chopper, blend whole raisins, half the nuts, all the egg white, salt, vanilla, and yogurt powder.

What is the rule for protein bars? ›

A good rule of thumb is to limit protein bars to one per day or less and to choose bars that are low in added sugars and artificial ingredients, and high in protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients.

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.

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 peanut butter a good source for protein? ›

Peanut butter is rich in heart-healthy fats and is a good source of protein, which can be helpful for vegetarians looking to include more protein in their diets. A 2-tablespoon serving of peanut butter contains up to 8 grams of protein and 2 to 3 grams of fiber.

How long do homemade protein bars last? ›

Homemade protein bars don't keep as long as the ones you buy. If stored in a non-airtight container, homemade protein bars will be past their best after about 3 days.

What are bad ingredients in protein? ›

There are certain ingredients in a protein powder that you should watch out for when shopping. They include artificial sweeteners such as sucralose or aspartame, artificial flavors and colors, preservatives, fillers like maltodextrin or corn syrup solids, and high sugar levels.

What to look for when buying protein bars? ›

4 things to look for in a healthy protein bar
  • Made of whole ingredients. Read the ingredient list and look for whole, natural foods like fruit, nuts and seeds. ...
  • High in protein. A good protein bar has protein from nuts, seeds and whey or soy isolate. ...
  • Lower in carbohydrates and sugar. ...
  • Try one with superfoods.

What are the bad ingredients in Quest bars? ›

Some unhealthy ingredients found in Quest Bars include artificial sweeteners (such as sucralose), processed vegetable oils (such as palm oil), and artificial flavors and colors.

What ingredient in protein bars cause gas? ›

The culprits often include the use of ultra-processed ingredients like erythritol, as well as protein powders like whey or plant-based alternatives. Additionally, artificial sweeteners and low fibre content can further contribute to digestive discomfort.

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