Cinnamon Roll Protein Bars Recipe
Cinnamon Roll Protein Bars are a delicious, high-protein snack option that combines the sweet and comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the nutrition-packed punch of a protein bar. Ideal for bodybuilders, athletes, or anyone looking to satisfy their sweet tooth while staying on track with their fitness goals, these protein bars are easy to make at home and perfect for a pre- or post-workout snack.
In this article, we will dive into the detailed ingredients, nutritional facts, and step-by-step preparation of these protein bars.
Ingredients
Core Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup almond flour (or oat flour)
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- ½ cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
- ¼ cup maple syrup (or honey)
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (melted)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Toppings:
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon for dusting
- 1 tablespoon powdered erythritol (for a low-calorie sugar-free option)
Ingredient Facts
Total Nutritional Information (Per Bar)
This recipe makes 12 protein bars. Here’s the total nutritional breakdown per bar:
Per serving (1 bar):
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Protein: 12 grams
- Carbohydrates: 18 grams
- Fat: 8 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams
- Sugars: 5 grams
Preparation Steps
1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla protein powder, rolled oats, almond flour, cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, mix together the almond butter, maple syrup, unsweetened applesauce, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil until smooth and well combined.
3. Combine the Mixtures:
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring thoroughly to create a cohesive dough. The dough should be slightly sticky but firm. If the mixture is too dry, add a bit more applesauce or a tablespoon of water until the desired consistency is reached.
4. Shape the Bars:
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Press the dough evenly into the pan, making sure it is compact and level. You can use the back of a spoon or your hands to press down firmly.
5. Chill the Bars:
- Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour to allow the bars to firm up.
6. Optional Topping:
- Before serving, dust the top of the bars with a mixture of cinnamon and powdered erythritol for a cinnamon-roll-like finish.
7. Slice and Serve:
- After chilling, remove the pan from the fridge and slice the dough into 12 bars. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 1 month.
Cooking Tips
- Customize Your Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter protein bar, add more maple syrup or honey, but be mindful of the extra calories. For a sugar-free option, use a natural sweetener like stevia or erythritol.
- Consistency Check: If the dough is too dry, add more applesauce or almond butter. If it’s too sticky, add a little more almond flour or protein powder.
- Storage Tip: To ensure the bars remain firm and fresh, store them in the refrigerator. You can also individually wrap them for easy grab-and-go snacks.
Serving Suggestions
- Pre-Workout Fuel: These bars are an excellent pre-workout snack, providing both quick and sustained energy from the combination of carbs, protein, and healthy fats.
- Post-Workout Recovery: With 12 grams of protein per bar, these bars can aid in muscle recovery after a workout.
- Snack on the Go: Enjoy them as a mid-day snack to keep hunger at bay and maintain energy levels.
Conclusion
The Cinnamon Roll Protein Bars are a delicious and easy-to-make snack option that combines the cozy flavor of cinnamon rolls with the nutrition needed to fuel your fitness goals. Whether you’re looking for a pre-workout snack, post-workout recovery, or just a high-protein treat, these bars deliver on both taste and nutrition.
