Description
These High-Protein PB&J Rice Krispie Bars are a delicious and nutritious snack combining the classic flavors of peanut butter and jelly with a protein boost. Perfect for a quick energy fix or a post-workout treat, these bars are easy to make and require no baking. Their crispy texture and delightful swirls of jelly make them as visually appealing as they are tasty.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Layer
- 4 cups crisped rice cereal
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Protein Drizzle
- 1/3 cup peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons vanilla or unflavored protein powder
- 2 tablespoons milk, dairy or plant-based
- 1/3 cup strawberry or grape jelly, slightly warmed
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the edges hang over the sides to make lifting the bars easier after chilling.
- Melt Peanut Butter and Sweetener: In a large saucepan over low heat, gently warm 1 cup of creamy peanut butter combined with 1/2 cup of honey or maple syrup, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully blended. Remove from heat once combined.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt, and 1/4 cup of vanilla or unflavored protein powder until the mixture is fully incorporated and smooth.
- Coat Cereal: Add 4 cups of crisped rice cereal to the peanut butter mixture and stir thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated with the peanut butter blend.
- Press Base Layer: Transfer the coated cereal mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or your hands to firmly and evenly press the mixture down to create a compact and uniform base layer.
- Prepare Drizzle: In a small bowl, mix 1/3 cup peanut butter with 2 tablespoons protein powder and 2 tablespoons milk. Adjust the milk quantity as needed to achieve a thick but pourable consistency.
- Apply Protein Drizzle: Drizzle the peanut butter protein mixture evenly over the pressed base layer in the pan, ensuring a smooth layer that covers the top.
- Swirl Jelly Topping: Warm 1/3 cup of strawberry or grape jelly until it is slightly loosened. Spoon this jelly over the peanut butter drizzle in small dollops and use a knife or skewer to create decorative swirls by gently swirling together the jelly and peanut butter toppings.
- Chill Bars: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 40 minutes, or until the bars are completely set and firm.
- Cut and Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars from the pan. Cut into 12 equal-sized bars and serve immediately or store refrigerated for later.
Notes
- Use natural peanut butter without added sugar for a healthier option.
- Honey or maple syrup can be substituted depending on dietary preferences.
- Protein powder flavor should be neutral or vanilla to maintain balanced flavor.
- For a vegan version, use maple syrup and plant-based milk.
- The bars should be stored refrigerated to maintain firmness.
- Adjust the jelly amount and flavor to your liking, such as raspberry or blueberry.
- Press the mixture firmly to ensure bars hold together well.
