High-protein bars

High-protein bars

1 h
These simple, no-bake high-protein treats blend the bold aroma of espresso with the smooth taste of white chocolate for a quick and indulgent bite. With the natural sweetness of medjool dates and the rich taste of almonds, each high-protein bar provides a burst of flavour, ideal as a post-exercise snack or midday pick-me-up.
https://www.arlafoods.co.uk/recipes/high-protein-bars/

Instructions

  • Remove the stones from the dates and blend with the espresso in a food processor or blender until smooth.
  • Add the almond flour and cocoa powder. Continue to blend into a thick consistency.
  • Firmly press the mixture into a baking tray (approx. 15 x 15 cm) lined with baking paper.
  • Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before cutting into 5-10 smaller bars.
  • Melt the chocolate over warm water and place in a piping bag.
  • Drizzle the liquid chocolate over the bars. Serve and enjoy!
Enjoy!

Questions about high-protein bars

Find answers to the most asked questions about this recipe below, from how to remove the stones from your dates to the best way to store your leftovers.

What’s the easiest way to remove the stones from my dates?
Removing stones from dates can be a simple and easy process – if you know how. Simply follow these steps and get the job done with minimal fuss: Choose ripe dates: picking dates that are soft and ripe makes it much easier to remove the stones. Make a small cut: using a small, sharp knife, make a lengthwise cut along one side of the date. Open and remove the date: gently open the date along the slit to expose the stone and remove with your fingers or the tip of the knife. And there you have it! A simple but effective way to remove the stones from your dates.
Can I make these high-protein bars without caffeine?
Absolutely! Simply replace the espresso with a caffeine-free alternative.
Can I freeze any leftovers?
You sure can! Freezing your leftovers can keep them fresh for up to three months. Simply wrap each bar in baking paper to prevent sticking and make it easy to take out later on. Then, put them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw the bars at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. They should be just as delicious as when you first made them!

Ingredients

Medjool dates
150 g
Espresso coffee
20 ml
Almond flour, defatted
80 g
Cocoa powder
20 g
White chocolate
40 g

How to keep your high-protein bars fresh

To keep your bars fresh, make sure to store them in an airtight container. If you like them soft and chewy, keep them at room temperature. For a firmer bar, refrigerate them, and they will last for up to a month.

Make high-protein bars without a food processor

If you don’t have a food processor in your kitchen, there are several handy alternatives you can use and still achieve similar results. This includes:

  • Blender: works like a food processor, but you may have to blend the ingredients in smaller batches.
  • Hand mixer: this is perfect for blending dry and wet ingredients but may take a little longer and require some extra manual work.
  • Mortar and pestle: this blend-by-hand method requires more manual work than using a food processor, but the tactile process can be quite satisfying.

Master the art of chocolate drizzling (h2)

Ah, the art of drizzling melted chocolate! To achieve that perfect, elegant finish, follow these simple steps:

  • Melt the chocolate: begin by melting your chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water. Stir gently until smooth.
  • Prepare a piping bag: transfer the melted chocolate into a piping bag or small resealable plastic bag. If using a plastic bag, snip a tiny corner off to create a makeshift piping tool.
  • Drizzle with precision: hold the bag over your bars and gently squeeze, moving your hand back and forth to create thin, even lines of chocolate. For a more controlled drizzle, use a spoon and let the chocolate fall off the edge in a steady stream.
  • Set and serve: allow the chocolate to set at room temperature or place in the fridge for a quicker set. Enjoy the added touch of decadence!

Tricks to get the texture just right

Getting the right texture and consistency in your bars is just as much about your preparation skills as it is about the ingredients. Here are some quick tips that can help you to master your art:

  • For perfect slices, heat your knife in hot water before cutting. This helps to prevent sticking and ensures cleaner cuts.
  • During blending, make sure to regularly scrape the food processor sides to mix all ingredients well, getting the desired consistency.
  • Moisten your hands before you press the mixture into the baking tray to prevent it from sticking.
  • For a softer chew, soak the dates in warm water before processing. This makes the bars tender and more enjoyable to eat.

Can I adjust the shape and size of my high-protein bars?

Absolutely! You can cut your bars in many different shapes and sizes – depending on your appetite. Whether you prefer bite-sized pieces or larger bars, you can easily modify the dimensions to suit your needs.

Simply alter the measurements of your mould or the way you cut the bars after they set. This flexibility allows you to create the perfect portion sizes tailored to your dietary requirements and lifestyle.

No-bake preparation techniques

No-bake recipes, such as this one, offer a fantastic way to make tasty snacks without using an oven. This is not only a time-saver in the kitchen, but it also helps to keep the original flavours of the ingredients intact.

Pressing the mixture into a lined baking tray or mould helps the ingredients stick together and set properly. After chilling, the bars will be firm and ready to cut. This simple process results in a rich, high-protein snack with minimal effort.

What to serve with your high-protein bars

Enhance your high-protein bars with complementary snacks that elevate their flavour. Pair them with protein milk infused with sea buckthorn for a refreshing drink that provides a tart contrast to the sweet bars.

For a crunchy, chocolatey delight, try these protein chocolate snacks made with rye flour and skyr, offering a satisfying combination of textures. If you prefer a cool and creamy treat, serve your bars with cottage cheese ice cream, the perfect post-workout combination. Alternatively, mix things up by serving them with a selection of other tasty flavour options – here’s a collection of our most popular protein bar recipes.