Description
These Peanut Butter Quinoa Protein Bars are a wholesome and delicious snack option packed with protein and fiber. Made with cooked quinoa, natural peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, rolled oats, dried fruits or nuts, and chia seeds, they offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Baked to a golden brown, these bars are ideal for quick energy boosts and healthy snacking.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup natural peanut butter
- ½ cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 cup rolled oats
Add-ins
- ½ cup dried fruits or nuts (e.g., cranberries, almonds)
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars.
- Cook quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness, then cook it according to the package directions until fluffy. This typically involves simmering quinoa in water for about 15 minutes.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, natural peanut butter, and honey or maple syrup. Stir this mixture until it becomes thick and sticky, which helps bind the bars together.
- Add dry ingredients: Fold in the rolled oats, dried fruits or nuts, and chia seeds. Mix everything until the ingredients are well incorporated and evenly distributed.
- Prepare for baking: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly and pressing it down firmly to ensure the bars hold their shape after baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the bars are set.
- Cool and cut: Allow the baked mixture to cool completely in the pan before lifting it out using the parchment paper and cutting into 12 bars.
Notes
- For a vegan version, use maple syrup instead of honey.
- You can substitute dried fruits or nuts based on preference or availability.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- These bars make a great pre- or post-workout snack due to their protein content.
- Ensure quinoa is well rinsed before cooking to avoid any bitterness.
