High‑Protein Chocolate Peanut Oat Bars – Vegetarian, Low‑Carb Snack

• Vegetarian
• High protein (13 g per bar)
• Low carbohydrate
• Low sodium (69 mg)
• Convenient snack

These easy‑to‑make bars deliver 13 g of protein per serving, making them an ideal choice for breakfast, a post‑workout snack, or anytime you need a quick, nutritious bite.

Ingredients (makes 4 bars)

• 3/4 cup rolled oats
• 1 rice cake
• 1/4 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
• 1/4 cup natural peanut butter
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pulse the rolled oats in a food processor until they become a fine flour.
3. Add the rice cake and pulse briefly; keep a bit of texture.
4. Transfer to a large bowl and stir in the protein powder and salt.
5. Mix in peanut butter, maple syrup and vanilla. If the mixture feels dry, add a splash of milk or water.
6. Press the mixture into the prepared pan, smooth the surface and chill in the freezer for 5–10 minutes.
7. Meanwhile, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in 30‑second bursts, stirring between intervals.
8. Remove the bars from the freezer, drizzle or spread the melted chocolate, and return to the freezer until set (about 5 minutes).
9. Slice into four bars. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer.

Nutrition Facts (per bar)

• Calories: 268
• Total fat: 12 g
• Saturated fat: 3 g
• Trans fat: 0 g
• Total carbohydrate: 30 g
• Dietary fiber: 6 g
• Added sugars: 12 g
• Sodium: 69 mg
• Protein: 13 g

Source: USDA FoodData Central.