Cookie Dough Protein Bars (Low Sugar & Plant-Based)
Do you love protein bars but don’t want to spend a fortune on store-bought ones? Then you have to try these homemade Cookie Dough Protein Bars! They’re low sugar, plant-based, crunchy, and super delicious and the best part: you know exactly what’s inside.
Most protein bars from the store are filled with additives, palm oil, or sugar alcohols that don’t sit well with everyone. With this recipe, you can easily make protein bars at home that are healthy, satisfying, and taste like cookie dough.
Why You’ll Love These Protein Bars
These homemade Cookie Dough Protein Bars are:
- Plant-based & low sugar – perfect for mindful snacking.
- Crunchy & satisfying thanks to crispy rice and nut butter.
- High in protein with a boost from vanilla protein powder.
- Quick to make – no baking needed, just chill and enjoy.
- Meal-prep friendly – store them in the fridge or freezer.
Why Make Protein Bars at Home?
Sure, grabbing protein bars from the store is convenient, but here’s the downside:
- Many contain sugar or artificial sweeteners that not everyone tolerates.
- They often hide additives or palm oil you’d rather avoid.
- And let’s be real – store-bought protein bars are pricey.
With this recipe for protein bars at home, you’ll get all the benefits without the downsides:
Healthier: made with simple, natural ingredients.
Flexible: you decide the sweetness, flavor, and texture.
Budget-friendly: homemade bars often cost less than half.
Perfect for meal prep: make a batch and always have snacks ready.
Ingredients for Cookie Dough Protein Bars
For about 5 – 7 bars, you’ll need just a handful of basics:
- Vanilla protein powder → adds the protein boost. Tip: choose a creamy rice or pea protein for best results.
- Coconut flour or oat flour → helps bind the mixture and adds mild flavor.
- Erythritol → natural sweetener, no sugar. Adjust to taste.
- Nut butter (peanut or almond) → creamy texture and extra satiety.
- Soy or rice crispies → for the crunchy texture + plant-based protein.
- Almond milk (or other plant-based milk) → brings the dough together.
- Sugar-free dark chocolate → for dipping or coating, classic protein bar style.
How to Make Plant-Based Protein Bars
Kitchen tools: 1 mixing bowl, spoon/spatula, small baking dish (20×20 cm) lined with parchment paper or use a silicone bar mold, knife.
- Mix dry ingredients: Combine protein powder, flour, and erythritol in a bowl.
- Add nut butter & milk: Stir in peanut/almond butter and almond milk until a thick dough forms.
- Fold in crunch: Gently mix in crispies without crushing them.
- Press into form: Spread dough into a lined baking dish and smooth the top.
- Chill: Refrigerate for 1 hour until firm and cut the bars.
- Optional chocolate coating: Dip bars into melted sugar-free dark chocolate.
- Enjoy: Your homemade protein bars are ready, crunchy, healthy, and full of plant-based power!
Choosing the Right Protein Powder
When making protein bars plant based, the protein powder makes a big difference. My tips:
- Look for a vegan base like pea, rice, or hemp protein.
- Check for a complete amino acid profile.
- Choose a powder with natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol instead of artificial additives.
- Short ingredients list = better quality.
FAQ – Protein Bars at Home
1. How long do homemade protein bars last?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, about 5–7 days.
2. Can I freeze them?
Yes! Freeze in portions and thaw briefly before eating.
3. What can I use instead of erythritol?
Try xylitol, stevia, or a touch of rice syrup (but then they won’t be fully sugar-free).
4. Can I use a different protein powder?
Absolutely – just note that sweetness and texture may vary.
5. Are these protein bars healthy?
Yes! They provide plant-based protein, healthy fats, and no refined sugar – ideal as a snack or pre/post-workout fuel.
6. Can I add extras?
Of course! Try chia seeds, chopped nuts, or cacao nibs for extra crunch.
More Plant-Based Snack Ideas
- Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
- Vegan Snickers Ice Cream Bars
- Healthy Pistachio Energy Balls
- Easy Healthy Brownies Recipe
- Nutrient-Rich Pistachio Bars (Chocolate Dubai Style)
- Chocolate Coconut Energy Balls
- Raspberry Coconut Chocolate Bars (Bounty Style)
Do you like this recipe?
⭐️ If you try this recipe, leave a comment and rating, I’d love your feedback!
📸 On Instagram? Tag me @plantiful.heart so I can see your Cookie Dough Protein Bars!
