Peanut Butter Energy Bars

Packed with protein and perfect for a pre- or post-workout snack, these tasty no-bake energy bars will help to keep your body nourished and fueled.

Fueling before (and after) exercise gives your body the power and energy it needs to build lean, strong muscles. That means being mindful of what you eat before and after practicing yoga or exercising to maximize the benefits of your workout. This simple and healthy peanut butter energy bar recipe is perfect for snacking on-the-go! With rolled oats, protein powder, peanut butter and a touch of maple syrup, these vegan, gluten-free energy bars will keep you feeling satisfied and fueled!

Ingredients

For the bars:

• 1 ½ cups all-natural peanut butter

• 3 tablespoons coconut oil

• ¾ cup gluten-free oats

• ⅓ cup ground flaxseed

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ⅓ cup pure maple syrup

• ½ cup vegan chocolate protein powder

• 2 tablespoons chia seeds

• ⅓ cup shredded coconut

For toppings:

• ½ cup vegan chocolate chips + 1 tablespoon coconut oil

• Your favorite dried fruits – blueberries, cranberries, pineapple, cherries, raisins, papaya

• Seeds and nuts – pumpkin, sunflower, hemp, sesame, slivered almonds, pistachios

• Sea salt

Instructions

1. Line an 8x8 baking dish with parchment paper.

2. Combine dry ingredients (oats, flax seed, protein powder, chia seeds, shredded coconut) in a large bowl and set aside. 

3. Mix peanut butter, 3 tablespoons of coconut oil, maple syrup and vanilla in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir until combined and smooth, then remove from heat. 

4. Pour peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients. Slowly stir to combine. 

5. Using a rubber spatula, evenly spread the mixture into lined baking dish. Place in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to cool. 

6. Slowly melt the chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Pour chocolate over the bars and immediately garnish with desired toppings.

7. Place bars in fridge to set for 1 hour before removing from pan and slicing. Store bars in fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks or in freezer for up to a month.