Chunky Monkey Protein Baked Oat Bars

These Chunky Monkey Protein Baked Oat Bars are hearty, energy-boosting treats inspired by the classic smoothie bowl. Packed with ripe bananas, chocolate chips, and crunchy walnuts, they are the perfect solution for meal prep and busy mornings.

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With a simple preparation process and wholesome ingredients, these bars provide a satisfying and delicious way to fuel your day without the fuss of complicated cooking.

Ingredients

• 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) pure maple syrup or honey
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) unsweetened almond milk
• 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups (200 g) old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup (60 g) vanilla or chocolate protein powder
• 1/2 cup (60 g) chopped walnuts
• 1/3 cup (60 g) dark chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup (30 g) unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
• 1 tsp baking powder

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Instructions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a large bowl, mash the bananas thoroughly. Whisk in the applesauce, maple syrup, almond milk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, combine the oats, protein powder, walnuts, chocolate chips, coconut (if using), cinnamon, salt, and baking powder.

Step 4

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined.

Step 5

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Top with extra chocolate chips and walnuts if desired.

Step 6

Bake for 25–28 minutes, or until golden and set. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean.

Step 7

Cool completely in the pan. Lift out using the parchment, then slice into 12 bars.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week. For longer storage, these bars can be frozen and thawed as needed.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegan version, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water). You can also swap walnuts for pecans or almonds based on your preference.

Serviervorschläge

These bars pair wonderfully with a fresh cup of coffee or a cold glass of almond milk. They are perfect for a quick breakfast or a post-workout snack.

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Enjoy these delicious and nutritious bars as a staple in your vegetarian diet, providing 7g of protein per serving.

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Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I make these oat bars vegan?

Yes, simply replace the egg with a flax egg: combine 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let it rest for 5 minutes until thickened, then use as you would the egg. Choose a plant-based protein powder and vegan chocolate chips.

→ How should I store these baked oat bars?

Keep bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week for extended freshness. For longer storage, wrap individual bars tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Can I use different types of protein powder?

Absolutely. Vanilla or chocolate whey protein works beautifully, as does plant-based options like pea or rice protein. Just be aware that different powders may slightly alter moisture levels—if your batter seems too thick, add a splash more almond milk.

→ What can I substitute for the walnuts?

Pecans, almonds, or cashews make excellent alternatives. For a nut-free version, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. You can also omit nuts entirely and increase the chocolate chips or add dried fruit instead.

→ Why do the bars need to cool completely before slicing?

Like most baked goods, these oat bars continue to set as they cool. Cutting while warm may cause crumbling. Letting them cool fully in the pan ensures clean slices and helps the texture firm up properly.

→ Can I reduce the sugar content further?

The maple syrup provides essential moisture and binding. You could reduce it to 2 tablespoons, though the bars may be slightly less tender. Using extra-ripe bananas also maximizes natural sweetness without additional sweetener.