Are you looking for a delicious and healthy snack that satisfies your sweet tooth without derailing your fitness goals? Look no further! This homemade Arbonne Protein Bar recipe lets you enjoy the taste and benefits of those pricey protein bars, all while saving money and controlling the ingredients. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a quick and easy post-workout treat. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, especially if you're a fan of homemade cooking. Let's get started on making these incredibly satisfying and customizable protein bars!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats (quick-cooking or old-fashioned)
- ½ cup Arbonne protein powder (any flavor you prefer – vanilla, chocolate, or berry work great!)
- ½ cup nut butter (almond, peanut, or cashew)
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans – your choice!)
- ¼ cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots)
- Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips (dark chocolate is a healthier option)
Instructions:
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Prepare your ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later. This is a crucial step for easy cleanup!
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Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats and Arbonne protein powder. Mixing these beforehand ensures even distribution in your bars.
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Add wet ingredients: Add the nut butter, honey (or maple syrup), applesauce, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Stir until everything is well combined. If the mixture seems too dry, add a tablespoon of milk or water at a time until you achieve the desired consistency.
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Mix in add-ins: Gently fold in the chopped nuts, dried fruit, and optional chocolate chips. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bars tough.
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Bake the bars: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and press down firmly to create an even layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the center is set.
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Cool and cut: Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. This prevents them from crumbling. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan once they've cooled.
Tips for Success:
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer less sweet bars, reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup. You can also use a sugar substitute, like stevia or erythritol.
- Nut butter variations: Experiment with different nut butters to change the flavor profile of your bars. Sunflower seed butter is also a great option for those with nut allergies.
- Add-in options: Get creative with your add-ins! Seeds (chia, flax, or pumpkin), coconut flakes, or spices (cinnamon, nutmeg) can add extra flavor and nutritional value.
Variations:
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars: Use chocolate Arbonne protein powder and peanut butter.
- Berry Oatmeal Bars: Use vanilla or berry Arbonne protein powder and add extra dried berries.
- Salted Caramel Bars: Add a pinch of sea salt and drizzle with melted caramel once the bars are cooled.
Nutritional Information (per bar – approximate, will vary based on ingredients used):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 10-15g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
These homemade Arbonne Protein Bars are a delightful and nutritious snack or meal replacement. Enjoy the convenience and satisfaction of creating your own healthy treats! They are a perfect example of delicious dishes that are also easy recipes and a great way to incorporate healthy eating habits into your daily life. Remember to store your bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for optimal freshness.