PBJ Protein Bars {Vegan & Gluten Free}

Are you a sucker for protein bars?! I went through a phase where I was eating them daily for snacks, pre-workout bites, or a post-workout bite. I mean – they’re convenient and deliver a protein punch so easily! The only problem – they often cause bloating and hurt my stomach due to ingredients like sugar alcohols, soy protein isolate, high fructose corn syrup, excessive fiber, maltodextrin, and other additives. Even the seemingly “healthy” bars have at least 1 ingredient that can be aggravating. And no, just because it is a “vegan” or “plant based protein” bar doesn’t mean you’re off the hook! You CAN find a protein bar that doesn’t hurt your stomach and cause bloat, however they’re still processed… and expensive!! So, why not just make your own?
I have been absolutely LOVING these bars – I usually have a bite or two before my morning workouts, in-between work appointments, and before a long dog walk. They’re packed with healthy fats that will hold ya over and a nice (but not excessive) punch of protein. Plus who doesn’t love PBJ?
PBJ Protein Bars {Vegan & Gluten Free}
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup chickpeas rinsed and drined
- 1 cup organic peanut butter creamy
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder vegan
- 1 tbsp jam of choice I used raspberry
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
Instructions
- Pulse/blend all ingredients in a food processor until smooth and a nice dough forms
- Press the dough evenly into a lined loaf pan & spread a layer of jam on top and drizzle with some more PB, then swirl with tooth pick to make it a lil fancy
- Place in the freezer for at least an hour. Slice into bars, or however you’d like.