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High Protein Chickpea Protein Bars

High Protein Chickpea Protein Bars - recipe card

These dense, chewy protein bars deliver a hefty 18 grams of protein per serving, thanks to a base of chickpeas, peanut butter, and Greek yogurt. Coated in a rich dark chocolate-peanut butter glaze, they satisfy sweet cravings while providing sustained energy.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/3 cup natural creamy peanut butter (no added sugar)
  • 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
  • 1/4 cup vanilla or chocolate protein powder (whey or plant-based)
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (60% cacao or higher)
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil (for glaze, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F / 177°C. Line a 9×5-inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy removal.
  2. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, peanut butter, honey, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract. Process for 2-3 minutes, scraping down the sides. Continue until the mixture is completely smooth and no chunks remain. This ensures a uniform texture in the bars.
  3. Add the rolled oats, protein powder, salt, and baking soda to the food processor. Pulse 8-10 times until the oats are partially ground and the dough comes together. Do not overprocess; the mixture should be thick and slightly tacky, similar to cookie dough.
  4. Scrape the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Using an offset spatula or your hands (slightly wet to prevent sticking), press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan. Smooth the top to create an even surface for even baking.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Do not overbake or the bars will be dry.
  6. Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Then use the parchment sling to lift the block out and transfer it to a cutting board. Cool completely, about 30 minutes.
  7. While the bars cool, prepare the glaze: In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between, until melted and smooth. Alternatively, melt in a double boiler over simmering water.
  8. Once the block is completely cool, cut it into 4 equal bars, each about 2.25 inches wide. This makes the perfect snack size. If the edges are crumbly, trim them slightly.
  9. Set a wire rack over a baking sheet. Place the bars on the rack, spaced apart. Spoon or drizzle the melted chocolate glaze over the top of each bar. Use the back of the spoon to spread it to the edges if desired.
  10. Allow the glaze to set at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. For a firmer set, refrigerate for 10 minutes. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months—wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a ziplock bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge or microwave for 15-20 seconds before eating. For a vegan version, replace honey with maple syrup, Greek yogurt with a non-dairy yogurt (like soy or coconut), and use a plant-based protein powder. These bars are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, not heated.

Nutrition

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