Description
Homemade chocolate sea salt protein bars deliver a powerful blend of rich chocolate and delicate saltiness. Packed with nutritious ingredients, these bars offer a satisfying snack you can enjoy after workouts or as a quick energy boost during busy days.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240 ml) whole almonds
- 1 cup (240 ml) raw cashews
- 1 cup (170 grams or 6 ounces) pitted dates
- ¾ cup (180 ml or 90 grams) egg white protein powder
Flavor Enhancers:
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2–4 tablespoons water, as needed
Toppings:
- Cacao nibs
- Flake sea salt
- Additional whole almonds
Instructions
- Pulverize almonds and cashews in a food processor until they transform into a fine, butter-like consistency, approximately 3 to 5 minutes.
- Gradually introduce dates into the processor, blending until thoroughly integrated. Incorporate egg white powder, cocoa powder, and water, processing until the mixture forms a cohesive, slightly crumbly dough that holds together when pinched.
- Adjust dough consistency by adding water if needed, ensuring the mixture binds properly without becoming too wet.
- Line an 8-by-8-inch baking sheet with foil or parchment paper, then transfer the dough onto the prepared surface.
- Use a tart tamper, glass bottom, or measuring cup to compress the dough evenly and firmly, creating a compact layer that will result in sturdy bars.
- Enhance the surface by sprinkling chopped almonds, cacao nibs, and sea salt, gently pressing the toppings into the dough to ensure they adhere.
- Refrigerate the prepared mixture for 30 minutes or until it becomes firm and set.
- Remove the chilled dough from the pan and slice into 8 uniform bars.
- Wrap each bar individually in waxed paper for easy storage and preservation.
- Store the protein bars in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze in an airtight bag for up to 1 month.
Notes
- Achieve a smooth, buttery nut base by processing almonds and cashews until they transform into a creamy texture.
- Check dough consistency by pinching mixture; add water gradually if it remains crumbly to ensure perfect binding.
- Use a tart tamper or flat-bottomed tool to firmly compact bars, creating a sturdy and dense protein bar foundation.
- Press toppings like chopped almonds, cacao nibs, and sea salt directly into the dough for enhanced flavor and crunch.
- Store bars individually wrapped in waxed paper, refrigerating for short-term enjoyment or freezing for extended freshness.
- Customize moisture levels by adjusting water content based on date softness for optimal bar texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Breakfast, Desserts
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg