Healthy Homemade Energy Bars – Easy and Delish

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Make these easy and healthy homemade energy bars for a simple, wholesome, and refined sugar-free recipe suitable for all eaters. Rich in fiber and protein, this is the perfect grab-and-go gluten-free snack that will keep you going throughout the day!

If you’ve ever needed a quick snack, I’m sure you’ve stopped at the nearest store for an energy bar on the way to your next meeting.

The problem with mass-produced bars is that they’re not only costly, but they’re often also packed with sugar and ingredients you don’t even know how to pronounce.

That’s why I created these homemade energy bars! You can make them in bulk, knowing you’ll consume healthy, natural ingredients. Plus, they cost a fraction of store-bought varieties.

Why you’ll love this homemade energy bars recipe

• Quick & easy: Not only are these homemade energy bars no-bake, but they also come together in less than 30 minutes — no food processor or oven necessary!

• Healthy: This recipe contains zero refined sugars, yet it is packed with heart-healthy fats, fiber, and protein. They are also vegan!

• Customizable: Easily swap in different seeds, dried fruit, nut butter, or spices based on what you have on hand. Prepare the bars with or without a drizzle — the choice is yours!

• Kid-friendly: What makes these the best energy bars? They are kid-approved! Plus, this recipe is a great way to get your little ones involved in the kitchen.

What are healthy energy bars?

Energy bars are a typical snack food enjoyed almost everywhere! Unlike their candy bar counterparts, energy bars contain high amounts of carbs, protein, and micronutrients.

Because of this, they are viewed as a convenient source of energy (hence the name).

Since homemade energy bars can be made with a wide variety of ingredients, some are healthier than others.

In this recipe, I went with nutrient-dense foods that can be enjoyed at any time of day, whether for breakfast or as a snack.

These bars are packed with whole-grain rolled oats, heart-healthy nuts and seeds, and iron-rich raisins, making them suitable for most dietary needs and preferences.

Moreover, they are also budget-friendly!

Health benefits of nuts

Nuts are one of the healthiest foods in the world, often considered a superfood.

They are widely regarded as one of the best ingredients to consume for maintaining a healthy heart, reducing inflammation, and regulating blood sugar levels.

Not only that, but they are full of antioxidants and vitamins like selenium, vitamin E, magnesium, phosphorus, and copper.

Contrary to popular belief, nuts may actually aid in weight loss since they are full of protein and fiber, both of which keep you full for longer.

I’m using peanut butter in this recipe, but you can choose other varieties like cashew butter, almond butter, or whichever type is your favorite.

Are energy bars gluten-free?

Since recipes vary slightly, not all homemade energy bars are gluten-free. However, I kept the gluten out of this recipe so more people are able to enjoy how delicious it is!

If anyone is celiac or has a strong sensitivity to gluten in your household, remember to double-check that the rolled oats you’re using are certified gluten-free.

Ingredients and substitutions

For the no-bake energy bars

• 2 cups rolled oats, uncooked – If you only have quick oats on hand, you will need to reduce the overall amount added as quick oats are packed more densely.

• 2 tablespoons chia seeds – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein.

• 2 tablespoons flax seeds – You can also use sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds.

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter (or cashew butter), melted – Make sure it is natural nut butter, not a no-stir variety.

• ¾ cup sugar-free maple syrup (or honey) – Both options work just as well, but honey is not sugar-free.

• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Compared to cassia cinnamon, Ceylon cinnamon adds a more subdued and balanced flavor.

• 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut – If you only have sweetened coconut shreds, reduce the maple syrup or honey slightly.

• ⅓ cup raisins – Regular raisins, golden raisins, and sultanas all work.

For the chocolate coffee drizzle

• ¼ cup dark chocolate chips – For a vegan option, make sure the chocolate chips are dairy-free.

• 1 teaspoon espresso (liquid), optional – Can also be replaced with vanilla extract. 

• ½ tablespoon coconut oil (or mild vegetable oil) – Use refined coconut oil if the coconut flavor is too overpowering for you.

How to make healthy energy bars recipe

1. To prepare the energy bars: In a medium bowl, stir together oats, chia seeds, flax seeds, peanut butter, honey, cinnamon, coconut, and raisins until forming a homogeneous mixture. PICS. 1 & 2

2. Line an 8 x 8-inch baking dish with parchment paper (overlapping the sides) and press very, very well the bar mixture into the pan using a spatula, until forming a flat, uniform layer. Freeze for 10 minutes. PIC. 3

3. Prepare the drizzle: Melt the chocolate chips, espresso (liquid), and coconut oil together in a microwave-safe bowl, in 30-second intervals mixing between them until the chocolate is almost melted. Remove the bowl from the microwave and then stir well until smooth and creamy. PIC. 4

4. Lift the parchment paper by holding the overlapping sides and placing it onto a large baking sheet. With a sharp Chef’s knife, slice it evenly into 12 bars. PIC. 5

5. Separate the bars gently to drizzle each with melted chocolate. PIC. 6 Place the large baking sheet in the freezer for extra 10 minutes or until the chocolate has set.

Storage

I suggest doubling or tripling this recipe to have healthy energy bars on hand when life gets busy! Just follow these simple storage instructions for extra bars:

• Freezer: Store leftovers in the freezer, wrapped individually in parchment paper, and then place them into a container or freezer bag, for a week or longer.

• Thaw: When you’re ready for another energy bar, let them thaw on the counter for about 5-10 minutes, or just until softened enough to bite into.

Variations

• Nut butter: Don’t enjoy peanut butter? Try almond butter or cashew butter instead!

• Nut-free: If you or anyone in your household has an allergy to nuts, allergy-friendly options include sunflower seed butter, pumpkin seed butter, or soy nut butter.

• Sweeteners: Keep these bars sugar-free, or use natural sweeteners like coconut nectar, agave, date syrup, brown rice syrup, or make a homemade syrup with panela.

• Nuts & seeds: In addition to, or in place of, flax and chia, use chopped walnuts, almonds, pecans, macadamia nuts, pumpkin seeds, or sesame seeds.

• Fruit: Try different dried fruits like apricots, cranberries, dried mangoes, blueberries, figs, dates, or even chocolate chips for a more indulgent option!

• High-protein: Add 1-2 scoops of your favorite protein powder to the mixture for even higher protein content in these already healthy energy bars.

• Spices: Try other spices like nutmeg, allspice, cloves, pumpkin spice, or cocoa powder for a chocolate version.

Note: If you start making customizations, keep the measurements similar so the bars stick together well.

Useful tips for homemade energy bars

• Pick the right oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats are the ideal choice for healthy energy bars, providing a chewier texture, more structure, and whole-grain benefits.

• Use natural nut butter: It’s best to use all-natural nut butter since these varieties typically don’t contain added oils and sugar. Look for an ingredient list that only contains nuts and salt!

• Melt the nut butter: Don’t forget to melt the nut butter before adding it to the recipe. This will make mixing the ingredients much easier.

• Don’t overmeasure: If you are too generous with the dry ingredients, like oats, nuts, and seeds, there won’t be enough wet ingredients to bind the bars together.

• Press the mixture: To prevent energy bars that are falling apart, remember to press the mixture quite firmly into the pan before freezing them.

• Be patient: Don’t rush the bars while they’re chilling in the freezer. When they are properly set, it’s easier to slice them into bars.

FAQ’S

Can these oatmeal energy bars be made vegan?

Yes, these oatmeal energy bars can be made vegan. To make a vegan version, don’t use honey, and double-check that the chocolate chips don’t contain milk or milk derivatives.

What are the main ingredients in an energy bar?

Calories (or energy) that comprise energy bars come from three macronutrients: carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

Typically, the carbohydrate source comes from ingredients like oats, cereal, and sweeteners like maple syrup or honey. Protein and fats are usually in the form of nuts and seeds.

Are protein bars the same as energy bars?

Protein bars are not the same as energy bars. Typically, energy bars are more balanced in their macronutrient makeup.

This means they provide you with an instant boost of energy due to their higher carbohydrate levels.

On the other hand, protein bars contain a higher amount of protein, which comes from either whey or plant-based protein powders.

Can I make peanut butter energy bars into energy balls?

Yes, you can absolutely make these peanut butter energy bars into energy balls.

Instead of pressing the mixture into a pan, simply roll it into bite-size balls and freeze them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate. Drizzle each one individually with chocolate.

Similar recipes

If you enjoyed these no-bake energy bars, be sure to check out some more wholesome recipes like these:

• Protein overnight oats
• No-bake pumpkin spice breakfast cookies
• Pumpkin chocolate chip muffins
• Healthy breakfast on the go
• Baked oats recipe
• Oatmeal chocolate chip cookies
• Oat flour pancakes
• Coconut flour pancakes
• Apple baked oatmeal
• How to make oatmeal

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5 from 12 votes

Healthy Homemade Energy Bars

Make these easy and healthy homemade energy bars for a simple, wholesome, and refined sugar-free recipe suitable for all eaters. Rich in fiber and protein, this is the perfect grab-and-go gluten-free snack that will keep you going throughout the day!

Course:Snack

Cuisine:American

Keywords:energy bars, gluten-free recipes, healthy, homemade, no bake, oats, peanut butter, quick and easy

Prep Time 8 minutes minutes

Cook Time 2 minutes minutes

Freezing time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 12 bars

Calories245.6 kcal

Author Denise Browning

Cost $ 0.30 per bar

For the no-bake energy bars

• 2 cups rolled oats uncooked – If you only have quick oats on hand, you will need to reduce the overall amount added as quick oats are packed more densely.
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 2 tablespoons flax seeds You can also use sesame seeds sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds.
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter melted (or cashew butter
• ¾ cup sugar-free maple syrup or honey – Both options work just as well, but honey is not sugar-free.
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut If you only have sweetened coconut shreds, reduce the maple syrup or honey slightly.
• ⅓ cup raisins or golden raisins, or sultanas all work.

For the chocolate coffee drizzle

• ¼ cup dark chocolate chips For a vegan option, make sure the chocolate chips are dairy-free.
• 1 teaspoon espresso liquid, optional – Can also be replaced with vanilla extract.
• ½ tablespoon coconut oil or mild vegetable oil – Use refined coconut oil if the coconut flavor is too overpowering for you.

• To prepare the energy bars: In a medium bowl, stir together oats, chia seeds, flax seeds, peanut butter, honey, cinnamon, coconut, and raisins until forming a homogeneous mixture.

• Line an 8 x 8-inch baking dish with parchment paper (overlapping the sides) and press very, very well the bar mixture into the pan using a spatula, until forming a flat, uniform layer. Freeze for 10 minutes.

• To prepare the drizzle: Melt the chocolate chips, espresso (liquid), and coconut oil together in a microwave-safe bowl, in 30-second intervals mixing between them until the chocolate is almost melted. Remove the bowl from the microwave and then stir well until smooth and creamy.

• Lift the parchment paper by holding the overlapping sides and placing it onto a large baking sheet. With a sharp Chef’s knife, slice it evenly into 12 bars.

• Separate the bars gently to drizzle each with melted chocolate. Place the large baking sheet in the freezer for extra 10 minutes or until the chocolate has set.

Storage

I suggest doubling or tripling this recipe to have healthy energy bars on hand when life gets busy! Just follow these simple storage instructions for extra bars:

• Freezer: Store leftovers in the freezer, wrapped individually in parchment paper, and then place them into a container or freezer bag, for a week or longer.
• Thaw: When you’re ready for another energy bar, let them thaw on the counter for about 5-10 minutes, or just until softened enough to bite into.

Calories: 245.6kcal | Carbohydrates: 22.6g | Protein: 7.5g | Fat: 15.7g | Saturated Fat: 4.4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.9g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.003g | Sodium: 95.7mg | Potassium: 240.6mg | Fiber: 5.3g | Sugar: 2.6g | Vitamin A: 7IU | Vitamin C: 0.4mg | Calcium: 55.9mg | Iron: 1.7mg

** Nutrition labels on easyanddelish.com are for educational purposes only. This info is provided as a courtesy and is only an estimate, since the nutrition content of recipes can vary based on ingredient brand or source, portion sizes, recipe changes/variations, and other factors. We suggest making your own calculations using your preferred calculator, based on which ingredients you use, or consulting with a registered dietitian to determine nutritional values more precisely.

Please note that health-focused and diet information provided on easyanddelish. com is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. Consult with your doctor or other qualified health professional prior to initiating any significant change in your diet or exercise regimen, or for any other issue necessitating medical advice.

DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?Comment and rate the recipe. Also follow us on Pinterest at @easyanddelish for more delish recipes.

This post was first published on January 12, 2015. We made useful modifications to it and updated the recipe.

10 Best Protein Bars: Taste-Tested and Dietitian-Approved

• Best overall: RXBAR Chocolate Sea Salt
• Best plant-based: Aloha Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
• Best soft: TRUBAR Smother Fudger Peanut Butter
• Best crunchy: KIND Dark Chocolate Nut Protein Bar
• Best for sensitive stomachs: GoMacro Sunflower Butter + Chocolate
• Best for weight loss: No Cow Chunky Peanut Butter
• Best for muscle building (or outdoor adventures): PROBAR Protein Chocolate Brownie
• Best keto-friendly: think! Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie Keto Protein Bar
• Best for dessert-inspired flavors: Good! Snacks Lemon
• Best protein breakfast bar: Over Easy Peanut Butter

People often use protein bars to increase their intake of protein, an important nutrient involved in processes such as immune function, growth, and tissue repair (1).

Protein is also essential for building muscle, especially for athletes and people who are physically active (2).

Protein bars are a great way to help round out your diet, particularly if you have increased protein needs or might have trouble getting enough protein in your diet, which might be the case if you’re vegan or vegetarian.

They’re also a convenient and portable snack option that you can bring almost anywhere, whether you’re traveling, hiking, or simply short on time when you leave the house in the morning.

We considered the following factors when choosing the protein bars on this list:

• Nutritional content: We looked for bars with at least 10 grams (g) of protein, 3 g of fiber, and 12 g or less of added sugar per serving. Because calorie needs vary, we included bars with 180–270 calories.
• Ingredients: We paid close attention to ingredient lists, prioritizing bars with minimal amounts of artificial additives such as flavorings, sweeteners, and preservatives.
• Availability: All the bars below are available throughout the United States and can regularly be found in at least one nationwide grocery store.
• Taste test: We tested multiple flavors from 25 brands over the course of 2 weeks. During testing, we considered whether the overall taste and texture made a bar satisfying to eat. We also noted whether the bar kept us full for more than an hour.
• Price: We included products to suit a range of budgets.
• Vetting: The products on our list have been vetted to ensure that they align with Healthline’s brand integrity standards and approach to well-being.

A note on price

General price ranges are indicated below with dollar signs ($–$$$). One dollar sign means the product is rather affordable, whereas three dollar signs indicate a higher cost.

Generally, prices range from $1.80 to $3.20 per count, though this may vary depending on where you shop and whether you get a discount for bulk orders.

Pricing guide

• $ = under $2.00 per count
• $$ = $2.00–$2.75 per count
• $$$ = over $2.75 per count

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Best overall

RXBAR Chocolate Sea Salt

• Price: $$
• Taste: rich dark chocolate flavor with a hint of salt; not overly sweet
• Texture: very chewy with a bit of texture from pieces of nuts and chocolate

RXBAR Chocolate Sea Salt is our pick as the best overall because it checks every box: high in fiber, more than 10 g of protein, free of added sugar, and made with whole food ingredients.

Featuring gooey chocolate chips, a rich dark chocolate base, and a sprinkle of sea salt on top, this bar is a true chocolate lover’s dream.

RXBAR offers 11 other regular flavors plus a few seasonal varieties, so there’s sure to be a bar to suit your taste buds.

Nutrition stats for RXBAR Chocolate Sea Salt (3):

• Calories: 210
• Total fat: 9 g
• Total carbs: 23 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Added sugar: 0 g
• Protein: 12 g

Other available flavors: Blueberry, Mixed Berry, Mint Chocolate, Chocolate Raspberry, Banana Chocolate Walnut, Maple Sea Salt, Peanut Butter Chocolate, Chocolate Chip, Chocolate Coconut, Peanut Butter, and Vanilla Almond

Pros

• minimal ingredients
• gluten-free
• kosher
• free of added sugar

Cons

• not vegan-friendly
• chewy texture that may not be appealing to all

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Best plant-based

Aloha Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough

• Price: $$
• Taste: sweet cookie dough flavor without any artificial aftertaste
• Texture: chewy but not dense; not at all powdery or chalky

If you’re looking for a way to boost your protein intake while following a plant-based diet, Aloha protein bars are worth considering. Available in multiple flavors, the bars are all certified vegan and made with organic ingredients.

What’s more, Aloha bars are free of artificial additives, gluten, stevia, dairy, and soy. And it doesn’t hurt that they’re pretty tasty.

The Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough was our favorite during testing, though the Lemon Cashew came in a close second. In particular, we loved the chewy texture and spot-on cookie dough flavor. Keep in mind that many of the other flavors feature a chocolate coating and have a slightly different texture.

Nutrition stats for Aloha Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough protein bar (4):

• Calories: 230
• Total fat: 10 g
• Total carbs: 25 g
• Fiber: 10 g
• Added sugar: 5 g
• Protein: 14 g

Other available flavors: Chocolate Espresso, Chocolate Fudge, Chocolate Mint, Coconut Chocolate Almond, Lemon Cashew, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip, Peanut Butter Cup, Peppermint White Chocolate, Pumpkin Spice, and Vanilla Almond Crunch

Pros

• certified vegan and organic
• free of gluten, stevia, dairy, soy, and artificial additives
• pleasant chewy texture and cookie dough flavor
• no artificial aftertaste
• low in added sugar

Cons

• inconsistent texture across flavors
• some customer complaints about recent price increases

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Best soft

TRUBAR Smother Fudger Peanut Butter

• Price: $$
• Taste: very much like a not-too-sweet peanut butter cup; no artificial aftertaste
• Texture: soft, smooth, and melts in your mouth

If you dislike traditional protein bars, which often have a dense, powdery texture, then you’ll love TRUBAR.

Owned by TRUWOMEN — a woman-founded and -owned business — TRUBARS are made with just a handful of 100% plant-based ingredients and come in five dessert-inspired flavors.

The Smother Fudger Peanut Butter bar features a rich chocolate coating and a sweet peanut butter middle that melts in your mouth. The texture is definitely on the softer side, which we liked, but it may not be ideal if you prefer a bar with more chew.

Compared with those of other bars we tested, the price of these varied quite a bit. Purchasing directly from the company’s website was the most cost-effective option.

Nutrition stats for TRUBAR Smother Fudger Peanut Butter (5):

• Calories: 190
• Total fat: 8 g
• Total carbs: 23 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Added sugar: 6 g
• Protein: 12 g

Other available flavors: Saltylicious Almond Love; Oh Oh Cookie Dough; Daydreaming About Donuts; and Get in My Belly, Peanut Butter & Jelly

Pros

• certified vegan and gluten-free
• free of dairy, soy, GMOs, and sugar alcohols
• minimal ingredient list
• low in added sugar
• pleasant soft texture and peanut butter cup-like flavor

Cons

• can be expensive depending on where you buy them
• smaller than many other bars on our list

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Best crunchy

KIND Dark Chocolate Nut Protein Bar

• Price: $
• Taste: nutty with a rich chocolate flavor
• Texture: hard and crunchy

While protein bars are notoriously dense and a little chalky, the KIND Dark Chocolate Nut Protein Bar is the exact opposite. Featuring crunchy whole nuts and a drizzle of chocolate, this bar will definitely put your jaw to work.

This flavor, in particular, was recommended by Healthline writer Rachael Link, MS, RD. It features nutrient-dense ingredients, and she noted that it’s her go-to afternoon pick-me-up thanks to its rich chocolaty flavor.

Like most other KIND snack bars, the Dark Chocolate Nut bar is made from mostly whole food ingredients. It’s also low in added sugar, high in fiber, and rich in healthy fats.

Nutrition stats for Dark Chocolate Nut Protein Bar (6):

• Calories: 240
• Total fat: 17 g
• Total carbs: 18 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Added sugar: 6 g
• Protein: 12 g

Other available flavors: Crunchy Peanut Butter, Caramel Nut, and Almond Butter Dark Chocolate

Pros

• good source of fiber and protein
• low in added sugar
• minimal ingredients
• crunchy texture and rich chocolate flavor
• gluten-free
• free of artificial sweeteners

Cons

• not vegan-friendly
• texture that may be too hard for some

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Best for sensitive stomachs

GoMacro Sunflower Butter + Chocolate

• Price: $$$
• Taste: subtle chocolate and sunflower flavors; not overly sweet
• Texture: chewy with bits of puffed brown rice for texture

If you follow a low FODMAP diet, then you know how difficult it can be to find suitable packaged snacks. Enter GoMacro.

GoMacro offers several low FODMAP-friendly products, including the Sunflower Butter + Chocolate bar. This flavor is also nut-free, non-GMO verified, and certified vegan, organic, and gluten-free.

The GoMacro Sunflower Butter + Chocolate bar is a bit higher in calories and carbs than many of the other products on our list, so it’s a good option for throwing in your hiking bag or bringing on your next ride.

Nutrition stats for GoMacro Sunflower Butter + Chocolate bar (7):

• Calories: 270
• Total fat: 9 g
• Total carbs: 38 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Added sugar: 11 g
• Protein: 10 g

Other available flavors: Salted Caramel + Chocolate Chips, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip, Double Chocolate + Peanut Butter Chips, Banana + Almond Butter, Lemon + Lemon, Oatmeal Chocolate Chip, Coconut + Almond Butter + Chocolate Chips, Peanut Butter, Blueberry + Cashew Butter, Maple Sea Salt, Mocha Chocolate Chip, Dark Chocolate + Almonds, and Cashew Caramel (Note: Only some flavors are FODMAP-friendly. )

Pros

• certified organic, vegan, and gluten-free
• free of nuts, soy, and dairy
• low FODMAP
• not overly sweet
• minimal ingredients

Cons

• may be higher in added sugar, contain nuts, or not be low FODMAP, depending on the flavor
• higher in calories and carbs than many others on our list

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Best for weight loss

No Cow Chunky Peanut Butter

• Price: $$
• Taste: sweet peanut butter flavor with a noticeable alternative sweetener aftertaste
• Texture: chewy and chalky, with some texture from peanut pieces

If you’re trying to shed a few pounds, choosing a protein bar that’s relatively low in calories but high in fiber and protein may help you reach your goal (8, 9).

Providing 17 g of fiber, 21 g of protein, 0 g of added sugar, and fewer than 200 calories, the No Cow Chunky Peanut Butter bar is a good option if you’re watching your weight.

To keep the bars free of added sugar, No Cow uses several sugar alternatives, including stevia, monk fruit, and sugar alcohols, all of which impart a noticeable aftertaste.

However, during testing, we found the aftertaste to be less pronounced in the Chunky Peanut Butter flavor. Similarly, while the bars are a bit chalky, the peanut pieces in this flavor add a nice boost of texture.

Nutrition stats for No Cow Chunky Peanut Butter (10):

• Calories: 190
• Total fat: 4 g
• Total carbs: 26 g
• Fiber: 17 g
• Added sugar: 0 g
• Protein: 21 g

Other available flavors: S’mores, Cookies ‘N Cream, Birthday Cake, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip, Chocolate Fudge Brownie, Lemon Meringue, Blueberry Cobbler, Raspberry Truffle, Pumpkin Pie, and Maple

Pros

• low in calories and added sugar
• high in fiber and protein
• available in several flavors
• naturally sweetened
• vegan-friendly

Cons

• contains sugar alcohols, which some may prefer to avoid
• noticeable aftertaste and chalky texture

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Best for muscle building (or outdoor adventures)

PROBAR Protein Chocolate Brownie

• Price: $$$
• Taste: rich chocolate flavor
• Texture: very dense but relatively smooth; can get a little dry

Whether you’re trying to build muscle or frequently spending your days out on the trail, PROBAR protein bars are a great option. In addition to being high in protein, they provide a good amount of carbs, which are key for supporting muscle gains (11).

While all PROBAR protein bars are pretty dense, the Chocolate Brownie was our favorite, as it has a smooth consistency that isn’t too dry. It also has a rich chocolate flavor that will quickly satisfy any chocolate craving.

PROBAR Chocolate Brownie is certified gluten-free, non-GMO verified, and vegan-friendly.

Nutrition stats for PROBAR Protein Chocolate Brownie (12):

• Calories: 260
• Total fat: 8 g
• Total carbs: 34 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Added sugar: 12 g
• Protein: 20 g

Other available flavors: Sea Salt Caramel, Coffee Crunch, Mint Chocolate, Peanut Butter Chocolate, and Cookie Dough

Pros

• high in protein and fiber
• rich chocolate flavor
• certified gluten-free
• non-GMO verified
• vegan-friendly

Cons

• expensive
• may be too dense for some
• contains soy

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Best keto-friendly

think! Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie Keto Protein Bar

• Price: $$
• Taste: rich milk chocolate and peanut butter flavor
• Texture: very soft, melt-in-your mouth consistency; a bit chalky

If you’re following a keto diet, there’s no shortage of keto-friendly protein bars to choose from. And while each bar had its pros and cons, this bar by far had the best flavor.

Unlike other keto-friendly bars we tried, the think! Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie Keto Protein Bar didn’t have an unpleasant, lingering aftertaste.

Instead, it reminded us of a Reese’s Fast Break candy bar, with a rich peanut butter center, a milk chocolate coating, and a soft, slightly chalky, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

All think! keto protein bars are gluten-free, keto certified, and free of artificial sweeteners.

Nutrition stats for think! Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie Keto Protein Bar (13):

• Calories: 180
• Total fat: 14 g
• Total carbs: 14 g
• Net carbs: 4 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Added sugar: 0 g
• Sugar alcohol: 7 g
• Protein: 10 g

Other available flavors: Chocolate Mousse Pie, Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookie Dough

Pros

• keto certified
• gluten-free
• no artificial sweeteners
• 4 g of net carbs

Cons

• contains erythritol, which some may prefer to avoid
• not vegan-friendly

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Best for dessert-inspired flavors

Good! Snacks Lemon

• Price: $$
• Taste: very sweet with a nice — though slightly artificial-tasting — lemon flavor
• Texture: dense and a bit chalky

Available in seven dessert-inspired flavors, Good! Snacks protein bars are designed for people with a serious sweet tooth.

In fact, these bars were some of the sweetest we tried. Some flavors, such as Birthday and Snickerdoodle, started to cross into cloying territory.

Good! Snacks Lemon, however, offers a bright acidity that helps round out the sweetness.

Like the other flavors, the Lemon has a classic protein bar texture: dense and a bit chalky. While it might be off-putting to some, the texture definitely makes the bar feel extra filling.

Good! Snacks protein bars are vegan-friendly and free of soy, gluten, and GMOs.

Nutrition stats for Good! Snacks Lemon protein bar (14):

• Calories: 230
• Total fat: 8 g
• Total carbs: 28 g
• Fiber: 11 g
• Added sugar: 9 g
• Protein: 15 g

Other available flavors: Birthday, Blueberry, Choc. Mint, Choc. P.B., Cookie, P.B., and Snickerdoodle

Pros

• vegan-friendly
• free of gluten, soy, and GMOs
• high in fiber
• several dessert-inspired flavors
• very filling

Cons

• may be too dense and chalky for some
• very sweet

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Best protein breakfast bar

Over Easy Peanut Butter

• Price: $$
• Taste: not overly sweet, with subtle flavors of peanut butter and honey
• Texture: great chewy texture with bits of peanuts

Miss the days of chewy bars growing up? Then you’ll like these breakfast bars from Over Easy.

Over Easy Peanut Butter is a breakfast bar that’s high in protein and fiber to help keep you full longer. We particularly loved that the bar is made with just eight simple ingredients and lightly sweetened with honey.

Over Easy bars are made with organic oats and free from gluten, soy, dairy, palm oil, and preservatives.

Nutrition stats for Over Easy Peanut Butter (15):

• Calories: 230
• Total fat: 11 g
• Total carbs: 24 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Added sugar: 8 g
• Protein: 11 g

Other available flavors: Apple Cinnamon, Banana Nut, Toasted Coconut, and Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate

Pros

• minimal ingredients
• high in fiber
• no artificial sweeteners, flavors, or preservatives
• free from gluten, soy, dairy, and palm oil

Cons

• lower in protein than others on our list
• not vegan-friendly

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Need help deciding? Here is a quick look at how our top picks compare:

*Note: The think! Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie Keto Protein Bar contains 4 g of net carbs.

You may want to consider several factors when purchasing a protein bar, including:

• Ingredients: Check the label carefully and look for protein bars that are free of artificial ingredients, fillers, and preservatives whenever possible. Some people may also want to avoid certain ingredients, such as sugar alcohols, which can cause digestive issues like gas and bloating (16).
• Protein sources: Ideally, choose a protein bar made from high quality protein sources, such as whey or protein derived from whole foods like nuts, seeds, or egg whites.
• Dietary needs: Whether you’re following a vegan, gluten-free, ketogenic, or low carb diet, it’s important to look for a protein bar that caters to any dietary restrictions or food allergies you have.
• Flavors: Protein bars are available in a wide range of flavors, so be sure to take your taste and personal preferences into account.
• Budget: Because protein bars can vary quite a bit in price, consider your budget before you start shopping.

Nutritional value

In addition to the criteria listed above, it’s important to check the nutrition label of your protein bar carefully.

In particular, pay close attention to the amounts of calories, protein, added sugar, and fiber in each serving.

Here are some general guidelines to follow:

• Calories: For a high protein snack, you may want to opt for 250 calories or less per serving, though individual calorie needs vary. For a meal replacement, look for a bar with 300 calories or more.
• Protein: Most protein bars contain 10–20 g of protein per serving. Some people, such as athletes and bodybuilders, may have higher protein needs and might want to select a protein bar with a larger amount of protein. For others, a protein bar with 10–15 g of protein can suffice for a healthy snack.
• Added sugar: When possible, look for bars with less than 12 g of added sugar per serving. To help keep the amount of added sugar in check, opt for bars that are sweetened naturally with ingredients such as dates, fruit, dark chocolate, and stevia.
• Fiber: Look for a protein bar with at least 3 g of fiber per serving. In addition to supporting gut health and regularity, high fiber foods can help keep you feeling full between meals (17).

Keep in mind that nutritional needs can vary depending on many factors, including your age, sex, activity level, and health status.

Be sure to take these factors into account when looking for a protein bar or consult a registered dietitian for more detailed guidance on your nutrient needs.

Protein bars and granola bars are both popular among snack lovers for the ease and convenience that they offer.

They often contain some of the same ingredients, including grains such as oats and puffed rice and sweeteners like honey, brown sugar, and syrups.

However, though there are several similarities between the two, there are also a few key differences.

For starters, protein bars are usually higher in protein, with 10–20 g per serving. This is often derived from ingredients like protein powder, nuts, seeds, and egg whites.

On the other hand, granola bars are typically lower in protein, with many products providing less than 5 g per serving.

Some granola bars may be lower in calories, nutrients, and fiber. However, this varies depending on the specific brand and product.

Additionally, protein bars are usually a bit pricier than granola bars.

Share on PinterestPhotography by Kelli McGrane, MS, RD

Determining the best protein bars involved three key steps:

1. Research: Registered dietitians researched all the bars to determine which ones met our nutrition and ingredient criteria. Healthline editors and contributors also recommended many of the bars.
2. Vetting: Healthline’s team of medical experts thoroughly vetted all bars that met our criteria. You can read more about our vetting process.
3. Taste test: Over the course of 2 weeks, Healthline Nutrition Market Editor Kelli McGrane, MS, RD, tested all bars that passed vetting.

For the taste test, the majority of the bars were purchased from either Whole Foods or King Soopers (part of the Kroger family). For bars that we acquired directly from brands, we made sure to check that the products are available throughout the United States.

During testing, McGrane paid close attention to the overall taste and texture of each bar. While taste preferences differ, she eliminated bars that tasted overwhelmingly artificial or had too strong of an aftertaste from sugar substitutes.

She also nixed any bars that had an unpleasantly chalky, powdery, or hard texture.

Are protein bars worth the money?

Protein bars can be a simple and convenient way to add more protein to your daily diet. They can also be a nutritious grab-and-go snack, which may be worth the price for some people.

Is it OK to eat a protein bar every day?

It is OK to enjoy protein bars in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Swapping a protein bar in for other snacks in your daily diet is fine and can be a great way to bump up your protein intake.

However, it’s best not to use protein bars to regularly replace more nutrient-dense whole foods such as fruits and vegetables.

For best results, opt for a protein bar that is low in added sugar and free of artificial ingredients and preservatives.

Are protein bars safe for kids?

Protein bars can be a healthy snack option for kids, but keep in mind that kids do not need as much protein as adults. Additionally, protein bars should be incorporated as part of a well-rounded diet and not used as a replacement for more nutritious meals and snacks.

Look for a bar that’s low in added sugar and artificial additives and high in fiber.

Protein bars can be a great addition to a healthy, well-rounded diet and an easy way to increase your protein intake.

However, not all protein bars are created equal, and many varieties may be high in calories, added sugar, and artificial ingredients.

Check the nutrition label and consider your budget, dietary needs, and personal preferences to find a protein bar that’s right for you.

Protein (protein) bar CHAMP! Banana

• Contains 17% protein
• Contains vitamin premix: C, PP, B5, E, B6, B2, B1, B9, H, B12
• Recommended before, after or between sessions

Where can I buy?

Other options

Are you active and trying to eat right? Your day is scheduled by the hour, so from time to time you have to skip the main meal? Try the Banana protein bar – get a portion of protein and nutrients, as well as the pleasure of the bright, rich taste of a juicy banana!

Healthy, tasty, and even convenient – due to its compact size, the bar fits in any bag, you can always take it with you on the road and eat it whenever you want.

Go in for sports and be active! Snack on Champ bars!

In the composition of

Skimmed milk powder, soy protein, coconut flakes, apple, candied fruit, banana, turmeric, vitamin premix: C, PP (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), E, ​​B6, B2 (riboflavin), B1 ( thiamine), B9(folic acid), H (biotin), B12.

Nutrition value

	in 100 g of product	per serving (45 g)	% SSP*
Energy value**, kJ/kcal	1533/356	690/160	6
Proteins**, g	16. 7	7.5	10
Fat**, g	10	4.5	5
Carbohydrates**, g	51	23	6
Biotin mg	0. 047	0.021	42
Folic acid mg	0.122	0.055	28
Pantothenic acid, mg	3.138	1. 412	24
Vitamin B2, mg	0.585	0.263	16
Vitamin B1, mg	0.509	0.229	16
Vitamin B12, mcg	0. 360	0.162	16
Vitamin B6 mg	0.667	0.300	15
Vitamin E, mg	3.056	1. 375	14
Vitamin C, mg	18.333	8.250	14
Vitamin PP, mg	5.445	2.450	14

* SSP – average daily requirement in accordance with TR TS 022/2011 (in one portion).

** Average values.

Weight (net)

45 g. Use immediately after opening the package.

Shelf life

12 months.

Articles – ACADEMY-T

Protein bars is a sports nutrition option in a form convenient for transportation and storage. Their purpose is to provide a quick supply of nutrients to the body at a certain time after training to close the so-called “carbohydrate window”.

The value of sports bars is that they can be available at any time when an athlete needs a snack. Of course, they cannot replace good nutrition, but it is very useful to have on hand in case you can’t have lunch. They will also be useful to ordinary people who are far from sports, as they can satisfy hunger in an emergency, thus saving time and maintaining health.

Athletes need four times a full meal during the day for effective muscle growth, but the rhythm of the current life does not always allow for it. In this case, there is no question why protein bars are still needed. If it is not possible to prepare a protein shake or a gainer, bars will come to the rescue. They are compact, do not require preparation, they are convenient to take with you. Bars are able to ensure the preservation and growth of muscle mass and give the body a decent energy source. They are also convenient to use immediately after a workout, when you urgently need to restore energy reserves.

Instructions for use

Most often it is recommended to consume bars:

• immediately after waking up in order to neutralize catabolic processes;
• minutes thirty after training to close the “carbohydrate window”;
• during the day if there is no opportunity to have lunch.

There are different types of bars. For those who want to lose weight, a product with L-carnitine is suitable. Fat burning bars also contain a vitamin and mineral complex and have a pleasant taste. They should be taken along with training, otherwise they will not give the desired effect.

High protein bars are available to provide the body with plenty of protein. This is the classic protein bar.

Also created high-carbohydrate bars. The effect of their use is akin to the action of a gainer. They can be taken before training or half an hour after it. You should not use such a product at night, especially with a tendency to form excessive body fat.

Benefits of Protein Bars

As mentioned, protein bars are the perfect snack. Unlike what people usually eat between work (burgers, chocolates, cookies, yogurts and other foods of low biological value), bars:

• Compensate for the lack of proteins and carbohydrates;
• Made from high quality natural raw materials;
• Contains a minimum of fat;
• Enriched with minerals and vitamins, PUFA;
• Compact and easy to use;
• The packaging of the product makes it possible to store the protein bar for a long time even under relatively unfavorable conditions (high air temperature and ultraviolet light).