Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1/4 cup protein powder (half pea protein isolate and half brown rice protein)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup cacao nibs
Optional
- Water (starting with 1 tablespoon, as needed)
Instructions
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, stir together the maple syrup, almond butter, and vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Incorporate the salt and protein powder into the wet mixture. Gradually add water starting with one tablespoon to reach a thick batter consistency, thick enough to combine thoroughly without becoming runny.
- Prepare Pan: Line a 9×4 inch loaf pan (alternatively 9×5 or 8×4 inches) with parchment paper or a silicone liner to prevent sticking.
- Press Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the lined pan and press firmly to form an even, compact layer.
- Chill to Set: Place the pan in the refrigerator to set for at least 2 hours, or alternatively, freeze for 30 minutes for a quicker set.
- Slice and Serve: Use the liner to lift the set bars from the pan onto a cutting board, then slice into your preferred shapes and sizes. Store bars in the fridge for later consumption or enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Adjust water quantity carefully; the batter should be thick, not runny.
- Maple syrup acts as a natural sweetener providing both taste and moisture.
- Protein powder choice affects texture and taste; pea and brown rice protein blend balances flavor and nutrition.
- These bars are best stored refrigerated and consumed within 5-7 days for optimal freshness.
- Freezing bars extends shelf life and makes them firmer for a chewier texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
