Vegan Protein Bars (Chocolate Crunch)

These Vegan Protein Bars (that also happen to be gluten free) are the perfect delicious and healthy snack. They’re incredibly quick and easy to make, suitable for both gluten free and vegan diets, and most importantly, so yummy!

My Vegan Protein Bars

I’ve been meaning to create a super easy vegan protein bars recipe for a while and I’ve finally got round to it. I wanted to create a no bake, fuss free recipe that can be whipped up in under 20 minutes and be ready to enjoy throughout the week!

For the protein powder, I’m using Garden of Life’s Raw Organic Vegan Vanilla Protein, which is my absolute go-to. I love this product, it’s packed with protein, containing 22g protein per serving, and actually tastes yummy! It also contains important nutrients such as vitamin D, iron, Zinc, vitamin E, Selenium and Manganese, so this protein compliments a plant based diet amazingly. This protein is also certified organic and non GMO, it’s ‘raw’ because heat can denature proteins, so it’s been produced at low temperatures.

If you’d like to try this protein for yourself, you can use my code BFGEORGINA for a discount (this applies to all products on their site too!) I also love their MyKind Organics Vegan D3 Spray and MyKind Organics Vegan Raspberry Vitamin B12 Spray. I love their products as they’re always 100% traceable and organic, as well as being whole-food based and non-synthetically produced.

I’ve worked with Garden of Life in the past to create this delicious Vegan Chocolate Chip Protein Mug Cake which is another great one to try. Both of these recipes are super quick, simple and fun to make!

A mixture of smooth almond butter, maple syrup and protein are the key ingredients to the protein base. These come together to create the perfect squidgy protein bar texture. I like to use almond butter because I find it’s the most neutral of the nut butters, but you could also use peanut butter and make these into peanut butter chocolate protein bars (yum)!

I love the addition of the crispy rice cereal to these vegan protein bars. It’s such as simple ingredient and so easy to find, yet adds the best crunchy texture to the protein bars! It really makes all the difference so don’t skip this step!

I love having a batch of these vegan protein bars made in the fridge or freezer, so there’s always a satisfying and filling snack ready for when I’m peckish, but also fancy a sweet treat. These are a great recipe to make at the start of the week so you have a quick and delicious snack or breakfast bar on hand throughout the week!

If you make these Vegan Chocolate Crunch Protein Bars, please make sure to either comment below or tag me over on Instagram – @georginaburgess_ – I love seeing your recreations!

The Ingredients in My Vegan Protein Bars

I’ve written about each ingredient below and how they contribute to the overall taste, texture and presentation of these delicious vegan protein bars.

Protein Base:

1. Smooth Almond Butter (or Peanut Butter): This ingredient provides healthy fats, protein, and a creamy texture to the bars. It’s a good source of monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy, and plant-based protein.
   
2. Maple Syrup: This natural sweetener adds sweetness to the bars. It also helps bind the ingredients together. Keep in mind that maple syrup is high in sugar, so moderation is key.
   
3. Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein Powder: This is a concentrated source of plant-based protein, likely derived from sources such as peas, rice, chia seeds, or other plant proteins. It’s a key ingredient for boosting the protein content of your bars.
   
4. Vanilla Extract: This adds flavor to the bars, enhancing the overall taste. It complements the other ingredients and can mask some less desirable tastes from protein powders.
   
5. Melted Coconut Oil: Coconut oil adds healthy fats to the bars, helping to provide a rich texture. It can also help bind the ingredients when it solidifies.
   
6. Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavor of the bars, balancing the sweetness and other flavors.
   
7. Rice Crispy Cereal: This adds a crispy texture to the bars, making them more enjoyable to eat. It also contributes a bit of carbohydrate content.

Chocolate Topping:

1. Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate not only adds a delicious chocolatey layer to the bars but also provides antioxidants and potentially some health benefits. It’s a source of healthy fats as well.
   
2. Odorless Coconut Oil or Vegan Butter: This ingredient is used to melt the chocolate and create a smooth, glossy chocolate topping for the bars. It also adds a touch of healthy fats.

All of these ingredients come together beautifully to create these protein packed and delicious vegan protein bars.

What is the protein base made of in this chocolate bar?
The protein base is made of smooth almond butter (or peanut butter), maple syrup, Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein Powder (though you can choose your own favourite brand!), vanilla extract, melted coconut oil, salt, and rice crispy cereal.

Is this protein chocolate bar definitely vegan?
Yes, trust me, this chocolate bar is totally vegan.

Is this protein chocolate bar definitely gluten-free?
Yes, these vegan protein bars are gluten-free (as long as you use the correct recipe and ingredients).

Can I use peanut butter instead of almond butter in this recipe?
Yes, you can use peanut butter instead of almond butter in this recipe.

What kind of chocolate is used in the chocolate topping?
The chocolate topping is made with vegan dark chocolate – you can choose which you use.

What is used to make the chocolate topping?
The chocolate topping is made with dark chocolate and coconut oil or vegan butter.

How much protein powder is used in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein Powder (roughly a 100g scoop). This equates to approximately 9-10grams of protein per bar

Is there salt in this recipe?
Yes, there is a pinch of salt in this recipe.

Can I use other type of cereal instead of rice crispy cereal?
You can use other types of cereal if you prefer, (but it may alter the texture and taste).