This Sugar Free Protein Bars recipe combines rich chocolate and smooth peanut butter for a delicious and satisfying high protein snack or meal replacement. With 22 grams of protein, these gluten free protein bars fit perfectly into a diabetic-friendly diet.
If you are a fan of high protein recipes, you must try these Protein Powder Pancakes, Protein Powder Waffles or these Protein Coffee Bites.
This sugar-free protein bar is a high fat caloric bar ideal for meal replacements. If you're looking for more delicious options, try these Gluten and Diary Free Protein Bars that are made with chunky peanut butter, hemp hearts and chia seeds.
Plus this Sugar Free Peanut Butter Fudge Bombs and this No Bake Low Carb Peanut Butter Cheesecake are a must-try.
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Why I love this recipe?
- Delicious Chocolate Peanut Butter Flavor: Enjoy the rich and satisfying taste of chocolate peanut butter in every bite, making these bars a delightful treat you won't want to miss.
- Nutritious Homemade Protein Bars: Made from wholesome ingredients, these homemade protein bars are a great way to know exactly what you're putting into your body, ensuring a healthy snack option.
- Gluten-Free Protein Bars: These bars are crafted to be gluten free, making them suitable for anyone with gluten sensitivities while still delivering fantastic taste, texture and digestive health.
- High in Protein: Packed with 22 grams of protein per serving, these bars are perfect for refueling after a workout or keeping you satisfied throughout the day.
- Diabetic-Friendly Meal Replacement: With no added sugar, these low sugar protein bars are diabetic friendly and serve as an excellent meal replacement, helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels while providing essential nutrients.
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Ingredients needed
- Almond flour: A gluten-free alternative to traditional flour, it adds a moist texture and a nutty flavor.
- Vanilla protein powder: Boosts the protein content significantly, helping create a filling snack while enhancing flavor.
- Brown sweetener: Provides sweetness without added sugar, mimicking the taste of traditional brown sugar.
- Natural peanut butter: Adds creaminess and rich flavor, while providing healthy fats and protein.
- Egg whites: Contribute to the binding of ingredients and add moisture without adding fat, helping to achieve the right texture.
- Peanuts: Add crunch and texture, while also contributing healthy fats and protein.
- Sugar-free chocolate chips: Provide a delicious chocolate flavor without added sugar, making them a perfect fit for a sugar-free recipe.
* See the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post for a complete list of ingredients and measurements.
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Steps by step instructions
How to make these sugar free protein bars?
- Step 1: Preheat oven and mix dry ingredients.
- Step 2: Mix in wet ingredients and peanuts.
STEP 1: Preheat the oven to 300F. Then in a large bowl whisk together the dry ingredients (almond flour, brown sweetener, protein powder and baking powder) until fully incorporated.
STEP 2: Add in the wet ingredients (peanut butter, egg whites, vanilla extract) along with the peanuts and mix with a rubber spatula until well incorporated and there are no visible dry ingredients. Use a strong rubber spatula or wooden spoon.
- Step 3: Transfer protein bar mixture to the mold.
- Step 4: Bake, allow to cool and then top with chocolate.
STEP 3: Take a handful of the protein bar mixture and shape it into a log. Press it into the molds, leaving space for the melted chocolate that will be added after baking. Repeat this process until all the mixture is evenly transferred into the molds. Place the molds on a baking tray and bake in the oven at 300°F for 20 minutes.
*Alternatively, if you don't have a bar mold, you can transfer the protein bar mixture into an 8 x 8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Once baked, simply let the bars cool before cutting them into individual rectangles.
STEP 4: Once the bars are finished baking, let them cool in the molds. Meanwhile, melt some sugar-free chocolate chips in the microwave, heating in 30-second increments and stirring in between until fully melted, which should take about 90 seconds total. Spread the melted chocolate over the cooled bars and allow them to set before removing them from the molds.
For an extra touch, you can optionally sprinkle some flaked sea salt over the chocolate.
Helpful Tip
If you want a moister protein bar, try using less protein powder. Since protein powder tends to absorb moisture, reducing the amount can create a softer texture, allowing the other ingredients, like peanut butter and egg whites, to contribute more moisture.
Recipe tips, variations and storage
Recipe Tips:
- For a softer texture, consider reducing the amount of protein powder slightly.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and consistency.
- If one bar feels like too much for a single serving, you can easily cut them in half. This way, you'll end up with 16 smaller protein bars instead of 8. Each smaller portion still provides a satisfying snack with all the same nutrition benefits, perfect for when you want a more manageable option while keeping your protein intake in check!
Variations:
- Flavor Enhancements: Add spices like cinnamon or cocoa powder for an extra flavor boost.
- Mix-Ins: Consider adding seeds (like chia or flaxseeds) or unsweetened shredded coconut for added texture without increasing carbs.
Storage:
- Store the protein bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to two weeks.
- To keep them extra fresh, individually wrap each bar before refrigerating. This makes them easy to grab on the go and helps maintain their texture.
- You can also freeze the bars for up to three months; just wrap each one individually to preserve freshness.
Meal Prep Recipes!
Discover simple and delicious meal prep ideas tailored for a diabetic-friendly, low-carb lifestyle.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a different type of protein powder in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute with different flavors of protein powder, such as chocolate or plant-based options, to create a unique flavor profile for your sugar-free protein bars. Just ensure that the protein powder you choose is compatible with your dietary needs and preferences.
Can I make these protein bars vegan?
To make these sugar-free protein bars vegan, substitute the egg whites with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg white). Ensure that your protein powder is also plant-based organic vegan or pea protein to keep the recipe aligned with vegan dietary preferences.
What are some ideas for using these protein bars as a meal replacement?
These gluten free protein bars can serve as a convenient meal replacement when you're on the go. Pair them with some berries or a serving of yogurt for a balanced snack that provides protein and essential nutrients.
Tried this recipe? If so, please leave a comment and ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating.
Recipe Card
Sugar Free Protein Bars
Instructional Recipe Video
Ingredients
- 1.25 cups almond flour
- 2 scoops low carb vanilla protein powder - Get 15% OFF
- ¼ cup brown sweetener
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup Creamy Natural Peanut Butter
- 2 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup peanuts
Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar free chocolate chips melted
- 1 teaspoon flaked sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients.1.25 cups almond flour, 2 scoops low carb vanilla protein powder - Get 15% OFF, ¼ cup brown sweetener, ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- Add peanut butter, egg whites, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix in the peanuts using a strong rubber spatula or wooden spoon until there are no visible dry ingredients.1 cup Creamy Natural Peanut Butter, 2 large egg whites, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ½ cup peanuts
- Take a handful of the protein bar mixture and shape it into a log. Press it into the molds, leaving space for the melted chocolate about ⅛" . Repeat until all the mixture is in the molds.
- Place the molds on a baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can transfer the mixture into an 8 x 8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. (see notes above)
- Once baked, let the bars cool in the molds.
- In the meantime, melt sugar-free chocolate chips in the microwave. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until fully melted (about 90 seconds total).1 cup sugar free chocolate chips
- Spread the melted chocolate over the cooled bars. Allow them to set before removing from the molds. Optionally, sprinkle flaked sea salt over the chocolate for an extra touch.1 teaspoon flaked sea salt
- Watch the video above to see how easy these are to make.
Notes
Important Information
For more information, tips and variations please review the recipe video and content above and below the recipe card.
Updates and Revisions
If the video and recipe card differ, follow the recipe card for the latest ingredients and instructions.
Nutritional Information
Nutrition info is estimated and varies by ingredients, measurements, and portions.
Nutrition
Food safety
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
- Never leave cooked food unattended
- Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
See more food guidelines
Elizabeth says
These protein bars are amazing! I love the chocolate and peanut butter combo. So easy to prep at the beginning of the week for meal prep, too!
Criss says
These sugar-free protein bars are a game-changer! They’re so easy to make and perfect for a quick snack or post-workout boost. Love how they turn out with a great balance of texture.
Nisha says
Love that almond flour is used in this recipe , these bars taste so good and great that it's sugar free so one can have it guilt-free!
Nicole Kendrick says
These were so good, but more importantly, they were so EASY! I'll be making them again.