Vegan Homemade Protein Bars

by | Dec 31, 2019 | Snacks & Desserts

These homemade protein bars are packed with tons of veggies, but you would never know they are secretly healthy and vegan-friendly! Perfect for an afternoon snack or easy, portable breakfast!

Here is what you need

  • 1 cup quick oats
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
  • 1/2 cup carrot sliced (about 1 large carrot)
  • 1 cup cauliflower cut into florets
  • 1 cup spinach packed
  • 3/4 cup rice protein powder – plain
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt
  • 1/2 cup hemp hearts
  • 3 tbsp almond butter
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp coconut oil measured at room temperature (the consistency of softened butter)

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees and rub an 8×8 inch baking pan with coconut oil. Spread the oats onto a large baking sheet evenly and bake in the oven until lightly golden brown (5 min).  Sprinkle the coconut evenly on top of the oats and place back into the oven until golden brown, about 1 minute. The coconut cooks VERY quickly, so watch closely. Remove from the oven and let cool. Turn the oven temperature down to 300 degrees.

In a large food processor, process the carrots and cauliflower, then add in the spinach and process until broken down into small pieces. Transfer the vegetable mixture into a large bowl and add protein powder, sea salt, hemp hearts, and toasted oatmeal and coconut. Stir until well combined.

In a medium, microwave-safe bowl, place the almond butter, maple syrup, and coconut oil. Microwave until liquid and bubbling, about 1-2 minutes. Whisk the wet ingredients together until the almond butter is smooth and then pour into the dry ingredients. Stir until the mixture forms a crumbly, wet dough and then use your hands to bring it all together until it is evenly mixed.
Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Pack it into the pan as hard as you can. Bake until the top turns light golden brown and a little bit crispy, 30 minutes. Let cool to room temperature and then place it into the refrigerator to cool completely. Slice into bars and DEVOUR.

Nutrition Information (makes 12 servings)

216 kcal per bar – 15g Carbohydrates + 8g Protein + 12g Fat