No Bake Chocolate Protein Bars

Fudgy, chewy chocolate protein bars that require no baking and are perfect for on-the-go snacking.

Scale

240 g (2 1/2 cups) rolled oats
90 g (1 cup) protein powder (whey or plant-based)
30 g (1/3 cup) unsweetened cocoa powder
180 g (3/4 cup) nut butter (smooth peanut or almond butter)
60 ml (1/4 cup) honey or maple syrup
30 g (2 tbsp) coconut oil or neutral oil
60–90 ml (1/4–1/3 cup) milk or milk alternative
5 ml (1 tsp) vanilla extract
1/4 tsp Diamond Crystal kosher salt
60 g (1/3 cup) optional mix-ins (dark chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit)

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Warm and combine wet ingredients: Measure nut butter, honey or maple syrup, and coconut oil into a microwave-safe bowl. Warm for 20–30 seconds until pourable, stirring once. Add vanilla and stir.
Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk rolled oats, protein powder, cocoa, and salt for 10–15 seconds.
Combine wet and dry to form dough: Pour the nut-butter mixture into the dry mix along with milk. Stir until everything comes together and is slightly sticky.
Add mix-ins and press into pan: Fold in any optional mix-ins. Press firmly into an 8×8-inch pan.
Chill and slice: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm, then slice into 12 bars.

For a vegan version, use maple syrup and plant-based protein powder.