Cinnamon Protein Bars

Cinnamon Protein Bars are the perfect way to satisfy your sweet cravings while packing in some serious nutrition. These bars are easy to make, delicious, and versatile enough to fit perfectly into your busy lifestyle. Whether you need a pre-workout snack, a post-workout boost, or just a tasty treat to enjoy during the day, these bars have got you covered. Made with wholesome ingredients like oat flour, almond butter, and a touch of cinnamon, they are not only nutritious but also incredibly flavorful. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe for Cinnamon Protein Bars works because it balances taste, texture, and nutritional value. The combination of oat flour and coconut flour gives the bars a hearty texture, while the almond butter adds creaminess and healthy fats. The vanilla protein powder provides a protein boost, making these bars an excellent choice for anyone looking to increase their protein intake. Plus, the warm, comforting flavor of cinnamon elevates these bars to a whole new level. You will love how easy and satisfying these bars are!

What You’ll Need

• 2 cups oat flour
• 1 cup coconut flour (can substitute with more oat flour or almond flour)
• 1 cup vanilla protein powder
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons sugar (any granulated sweetener works)
• 1 cup almond butter (can substitute with any nut butter)
• 1 cup brown rice syrup (or maple syrup)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons milk (unsweetened almond milk is preferred)
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons sugar (for topping, can use any granulated sweetener)

Tools of the Trade

• Mixing bowl – for combining your dry and wet ingredients.
• Spatula – to mix and scrape down the sides of the bowl.
• Baking pan – an 8×8 inch pan works perfectly for this recipe.
• Parchment paper – for easy removal of the bars from the pan.
• Oven – to bake your delicious Cinnamon Protein Bars.

Mastering Cinnamon Protein Bars: How-To

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars will bake evenly and rise perfectly.

2. Prepare the Baking Pan

Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will help you lift the bars out easily once they are baked.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the oat flour, coconut flour, vanilla protein powder, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Stir these ingredients together until they are well combined.

4. Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the almond butter, brown rice syrup (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and almond milk. Stir until the mixture is smooth.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to mix everything together until a thick dough forms. Make sure there are no dry patches left.

6. Spread the Mixture in the Pan

Transfer the dough into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, pressing down firmly to ensure the mixture sticks together.

7. Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the remaining 1 tablespoon of cinnamon and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the bars.

8. Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The center should be set but slightly soft.

9. Cool and Slice

Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and slice them into squares.

Budget & Availability Swaps

• Oat flour can be made by grinding rolled oats in a blender or food processor.
• Coconut flour can be substituted with more oat flour or almond flour if needed.
• Almond butter can be replaced with peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
• Brown rice syrup can be swapped with agave nectar or honey for a different flavor.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

• Ensure your almond butter is well-stirred if it’s natural, as the oil can separate.
• Do not overbake; the bars will continue to firm up as they cool.
• Press the mixture firmly into the pan to avoid crumbly bars.
• Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs, not wet batter.

Prep Ahead & Store

These Cinnamon Protein Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch at the beginning of the week and store them for later. Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing and storing.

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks.
• You can also freeze the bars for up to 3 months; just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Questions People Ask

Can I use a different protein powder?

Absolutely! You can use any flavored or unflavored protein powder that you prefer. Just keep in mind that flavored powders may change the taste of the bars slightly.

Are these bars gluten-free?

Yes! As long as you use certified gluten-free oats to make your oat flour, these bars will be gluten-free.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?

Yes! Feel free to fold in some chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit into the batter before spreading it in the pan for added texture and flavor.

How do I make these bars vegan?

To make these bars vegan, simply substitute the honey or brown rice syrup with maple syrup and ensure your protein powder is plant-based. The rest of the ingredients are already vegan-friendly!

Serve with These

• Smoothies – Pair with your favorite fruits and greens.
• Yogurt – Crumble over a bowl of yogurt for a delicious breakfast.
• Coffee – Enjoy with a warm cup of coffee or tea.
• Protein Shakes – Boost your protein intake with a shake alongside your bars.

See You at the Table

These Cinnamon Protein Bars are not only a delightful treat but also a fantastic way to fuel your body. They are incredibly easy to make and can be customized to fit your taste preferences. Once you try this recipe, you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation. Grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy these tasty, healthy bars any time of the day. Happy baking!