Can I make these bars nut-free?

Absolutely! Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini for a nut-free version.

How long do these bars last?

When stored properly, they can last up to 3 days at room temperature, 1 week in the refrigerator, or 3 months in the freezer.

Can I add other ingredients like dried fruit or chocolate chips?

Certainly! Feel free to add up to 1/4 cup of mix-ins like dried cranberries, dark chocolate chips, or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.

Are these bars suitable for a keto diet?

As is, these bars are not keto-friendly due to the oats and honey. However, you can adapt the recipe by using almond flour instead of oats and a keto-friendly sweetener in place of honey.

Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?

While instant oats can work, they may result in a softer texture. Rolled oats are preferred for their chewier consistency and better binding properties.

4-Ingredient Protein Bars – Clean Eating Made Easy

Name: 4-Ingredient Protein Bars – Clean Eating Made Easy
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Ingredients: 2 cups (180g) rolled oats; 1 cup (240g) natural peanut butter (smooth or crunchy); 1/3 cup (113g) honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup (60g) protein powder of your choice (vanilla or chocolate work best); Almond butter for peanut butter (for a nuttier flavor); Agave nectar for honey (for a lower glycemic index option); Pea protein for whey protein (for a vegan alternative)

Description

These 4-Ingredient Protein Bars are the ultimate no-bake snack, simple, clean, and packed with natural energy. Made with rolled oats, creamy peanut butter, honey, and your favorite protein powder, they’re perfect for meal prep, post-workout fuel, or an easy on-the-go breakfast. No oven required and ready in minutes!

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups (180g) rolled oats
1 cup (240g) natural peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
1/3 cup (113g) honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup (60g) protein powder of your choice (vanilla or chocolate work best)

Potential substitutions:

Almond butter for peanut butter (for a nuttier flavor)
Agave nectar for honey (for a lower glycemic index option)
Pea protein for whey protein (for a vegan alternative)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add 2 cups of rolled oats and 1/2 cup of protein powder. Stir to combine.
Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a microwave-safe bowl, gently warm 1 cup of peanut butter and 1/3 cup of honey (or maple syrup) for 20–30 seconds until smooth and easy to stir.
Combine Everything:
Pour the warm peanut butter and honey mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until a thick, sticky dough forms.
Shape and Set:
Press the mixture evenly into a parchment-lined 8×8-inch baking pan. Flatten the top using a spatula or the back of a spoon.
Chill and Slice:
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set. Once firm, cut into 12 bars or squares and enjoy!

Notes

No-Fridge Option: If you’re short on time or prefer a softer texture, you can skip refrigeration and enjoy the bars immediately after pressing them into the pan. Just note they’ll be slightly more delicate.

Freezer-Friendly: These bars freeze beautifully! Wrap them individually in parchment paper and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before eating.

Customize It: Add a pinch of cinnamon, a dash of vanilla extract, or mix in mini chocolate chips or dried fruit for extra flavor and variety.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 220
Sugar: 8g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 12g