Chocolate Sea Salt Protein Bars: Your New Go-To Snack
Are you always on the lookout for a quick, healthy snack that satisfies your sweet tooth while giving you a protein boost? Look no further! These homemade Chocolate Sea Salt Protein Bars are packed with natural ingredients and are perfect for a post-workout snack or a midday treat. With a delightful combination of nuts, dates, and cocoa, each bite offers a perfect balance of crunchy, chewy, and chocolatey flavors, finished with a hint of sea salt that elevates the whole experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole almonds, plus more for topping if desired
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 1 cup (6 ounces) pitted dates
- 3/4 cup egg white protein powder
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2-4 tablespoons water, as needed
- Cacao nibs, for topping
- Flake sea salt, for topping
Directions:
- Process Nuts: Start by combining the almonds and cashews in a food processor. Process on high until the nuts are finely ground and begin to turn into butter, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add Dates and Dry Ingredients: Incorporate the dates a few at a time, processing until well combined. Follow with the egg white protein powder and cocoa powder. Begin with 2 tablespoons of water, adding more if necessary, and process until the mixture forms a crumbly dough. The mixture should hold its shape when pinched between your fingers; if it’s too crumbly, add a bit more water.
- Press Into Pan: Transfer the mixture to an 8-by-8-inch baking sheet lined with either foil or parchment paper. Press the mixture firmly into an even layer at the bottom of the pan. Compacting the mixture well will ensure the bars are sturdy.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the surface with chopped almonds, cacao nibs, and a light dusting of flake sea salt. Press these toppings into the dough to help them adhere.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the bars for 30 minutes or until firm. Once set, remove the bars from the pan, cut into 8 equal pieces, and wrap each bar individually in waxed paper. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 290 kcal per serving
- Servings: 8
These bars not only provide a substantial amount of protein but also bring the natural sweetness of dates and the richness of nuts. They’re easy to make, requiring no actual cooking, and the customizable toppings allow you to add your personal touch. Whether you’re making a batch for the week ahead or preparing a special treat for an outdoor adventure, these Chocolate Sea Salt Protein Bars are sure to energize and delight!
Ready to give them a try? They might just become your new favorite homemade snack!
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Chocolate Sea Salt Protein Bars
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
Description
Dive into the rich flavors of these Chocolate Sea Salt Protein Bars, a perfect blend of wholesome nuts, sweet dates, and robust cocoa, accented with a hint of sea salt. Each bar is packed with protein and designed to satisfy your cravings while providing a burst of energy.
Ideal for fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals, these bars serve as a fantastic post-workout snack or a convenient on-the-go meal replacement. They’re not only delicious but also crafted to support your wellness goals, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
Ingredients
1 cup whole almonds, plus more for topping if desired
1 cup raw cashews
1 cup (6 ounces) pitted dates
3/4 cup egg white protein powder
3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
2–4 tablespoons water, as needed
Cacao nibs, for topping
Flake sea salt, for topping
Instructions
Combine almonds and cashews in a food processor. Process on high until nuts are finely ground and begin to turn into butter, 3 to 5 minutes.
Add dates, a few at a time, and process until well incorporated, then add egg white powder, cocoa powder, and 2 tablespoons of water and process until mixture forms a crumbly dough. You should be able to pinch some of the mixture between your fingers and have it hold its shape. If it is still crumbly, add another tablespoon or two of water (this will depend mainly on how dry/soft your dates are).
Pour into an 8-by-8-inch baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Press firmly (use a tart tamper if you have one, or the base of a sturdy glass or flat-bottomed measuring cup) to press into an even layer in the bottom of the pan. The more you can compact the mixture the more sturdy they will be.
Sprinkle with chopped almonds, cacao nibs, and sea salt; press toppings into dough.
Refrigerate for 30 minutes or until firm. Remove bars from pan and cut into 8 bars. Wrap individually in waxed paper and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month (in an airtight bag).
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 290 kcal