Baked Protein Bar Recipe Vegan: Easy & Healthy Snack Ideas

If you’re on the hunt for a wholesome snack that combines convenience, nutrition, and deliciousness, look no further than this baked protein bar recipe vegan. These bars are perfect for fueling your workouts, powering through busy days, or simply satisfying those mid-afternoon cravings without any guilt.

Unlike many store-bought protein bars packed with artificial additives and hidden sugars, this homemade version lets you control every ingredient, ensuring a clean, plant-based boost of energy.

What makes these bars truly special is their perfect balance of texture and flavor. They are chewy yet firm, subtly sweetened with natural ingredients, and packed with plant-based protein sources like pea protein and nuts.

Best of all, they’re easy to customize with your favorite flavors and mix-ins. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just looking for a healthy homemade treat, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

Ready to bake your way to better snacking? Let’s dive into the details and get you set up to make your own batch of these nourishing vegan protein bars.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked vegan protein bar recipe ticks all the boxes for a wholesome, tasty snack. Here’s why it’s worth making:

• Plant-Based Protein Power: It features pea protein and nuts, providing a satisfying protein punch ideal for vegans and vegetarians.
• Natural Sweeteners: Instead of refined sugars, it uses maple syrup and dates for natural sweetness and extra fiber.
• Simple Ingredients: No strange chemicals or preservatives—just real food you recognize.
• Customizable: Easily swap nuts, seeds, or add your favorite spices and dried fruits to make it your own.
• Perfect Texture: Baked to firm up just right, these bars hold together well without being dry or crumbly.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead for quick grab-and-go snacks all week long.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if preferred)
• 1/2 cup pea protein powder (unflavored or vanilla)
• 1/2 cup almond butter (or any nut/seed butter)
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/2 cup chopped mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
• 1/4 cup chopped dates (pitted)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 2 tablespoons chia seeds or flaxseeds

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×9 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Knife for chopping dates and nuts
• Oven

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line the baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to easily lift out the bars later.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, pea protein powder, chopped nuts, chopped dates, cinnamon, salt, and seeds (if using). Stir until evenly mixed.
3. In a smaller bowl, mix the almond butter, maple syrup, applesauce, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined.
4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and use a spatula or wooden spoon to stir thoroughly. The mixture should be sticky but manageable. If too dry, add a tablespoon of water or more applesauce; if too wet, add a little more oats.
5. Transfer the mixture to the lined baking pan and press it down firmly and evenly, ensuring the entire surface is compacted.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the center feels firm to the touch.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan before lifting out using the parchment paper. This step is crucial to avoid crumbly bars.
8. Once cooled, cut into 8–10 bars and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Tips & Variations

“Feel free to customize your bars with add-ins like cocoa nibs, shredded coconut, or dried cranberries for extra flavor and texture.”

Choosing Your Protein Powder: Pea protein is ideal for a vegan-friendly option, but you can also try brown rice protein or hemp protein depending on your preference.

Nut Butter Alternatives: If you have allergies or prefer a seed butter, sunflower or tahini works beautifully in this recipe.

Sweetness Level: Dates and maple syrup provide natural sugars, but if you prefer a sweeter bar, add a tablespoon of coconut sugar or maple syrup.

Make It Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats to keep the recipe safe for gluten sensitivities.

Storage: These bars freeze well individually wrapped, so consider making a double batch for longer-lasting snacks.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These protein bars are perfect on their own for a quick energy boost, but here are a few tasty ways to enjoy them:

• Pair with a cup of your favorite plant-based milk or coffee for a balanced breakfast.
• Chop and sprinkle over vegan yogurt or smoothie bowls for added texture and protein.
• Wrap individually and pack them for hikes, gym sessions, or busy workdays.
• Serve alongside fresh fruit for a nutrient-rich afternoon snack.
• Try warming them slightly and drizzling with a bit of vegan chocolate sauce for a dessert twist.

Conclusion

Baking your own vegan protein bars is a rewarding way to ensure you’re fueling your body with clean, nutritious ingredients. This recipe is straightforward, customizable, and yields bars that are both delicious and satisfying.

By using wholesome staples like rolled oats, nut butter, and pea protein, you create a snack that supports your active lifestyle without compromising on taste or quality.

Whether you’re a dedicated vegan, a fitness enthusiast, or someone looking for healthier homemade snacks, these bars are a fantastic addition to your kitchen repertoire. For more wholesome homemade treats, check out our other recipes like Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe, Lazy Cookie Cake Recipe, or the energizing Green Goodness Juice Recipe.

Happy baking and snacking!

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