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Last Updated on March 6, 2025 by Tracy
Make these easy no-bake Chocolate Cherry protein bars with oats, protein powder, and peanut butter for a healthy, customizable snack. Packed with protein and fiber, they’re perfect for meal prep, on-the-go, or after a workout.
You all love my Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars, I decided to try to up the protein powder a little and add some dried cherries. The result? DELICIOUSNESS. I mean, the original was good, so this version was bound to be as well!
Plus, both my kids are on a huge protein kick. They both track what they eat in a free app, they make sure they have enough protein in relation to their weight. They both workout about 6 days a week. Which is great, but that also means they eat a lot of what I eat on WW. Which is also great….that means I am making less meals right? Well….they used to eat whatever because they didn’t want “mom’s healthy stuff”, well, now all they want is “mom’s healthy stuff” so that means I am making more meals. Overall, I know it’s good for us all, but sometimes it feels like more work!
But these no bake protein bars aren’t hard to make….and they are a heck of a lot cheaper to make than the mass amount of protein bars I have been buying at the grocery store!
Since the #1 thing my kiddos are interested in at the moment when it comes to eating is the nutritional benefits, I am going to share those first. Just in case you are all on the healthy-protein-kick too 🙂
Nutritional Benefits of the Ingredients in these Homemade Protein Bars
- Oats: Oats are an excellent source of soluble fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which helps lower cholesterol levels and support heart health. They also provide complex carbohydrates for long-lasting energy, making them a great base for these protein bars.
- Protein Powder: Protein powder is a key ingredient for muscle repair and growth, especially after workouts. It helps keep you full for longer periods of time, making it ideal for snacking between meals.
- Ground Flax: Flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health, as well as lignans, which provide antioxidant properties. They’re also an excellent source of fiber, helping with digestion and keeping you feeling full.
- Peanut Butter: Peanut butter gives these bars a rich, creamy texture, and loads of healthy fats and protein. Peanut butter is a great source of monounsaturated fats, which support heart health, and it’s also packed with protein, which aids in muscle growth and repair.
- Sliced Almonds: Almonds are a fantastic source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They’re also rich in vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant, and magnesium, which helps with muscle function and energy production.
- Chocolate: While chocolate chips add a sweet touch, they also bring small amounts of antioxidants, particularly dark chocolate varieties. It’s important to use them in moderation, but they can help satisfy sweet cravings while offering a small nutritional boost. *If you can find dark chocolate mini chips, I recommend using those!
- Dried Cherries: Dried cherries are high in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which support inflammation reduction and immune health. They also contain fiber and vitamin C, which help with digestion and support overall wellness.
The mini chocolate chips and dried cherries add a little indulgence without overpowering the nutritious benefits. Whether you’re looking for an energy boost, something to keep you full between meals, or a healthier treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, these protein bars check all the boxes.
Looking to increase the protein in these no bake chocolate cherry protein bars? Here are a few ideas to try:
Chia Seeds (1–2 tbsp.) – Adds extra protein, fiber, and omega-3s.
Hemp Seeds (2 tbsp.) – A complete plant-based protein that blends well with nuts and oats.
Pumpkin Seeds (¼ cup, chopped) – A crunchy addition with a good amount of protein and minerals.
Unsweetened Protein Powder (Increase by ¼ cup) – If the batter can handle it, this boosts protein without altering flavors too much.
Powdered Peanut Butter (2 tbsp.) – Enhances flavor while increasing protein.
Greek Yogurt Powder (2 tbsp.) – A unique way to add dairy-based protein.
These No Bake Chocolate Cherry Protein Bars are the perfect balance of protein, fiber, and a little sweetness, making them a hit for snack time at home or as a lunchbox treat. It’s like having a little energy bar you can feel good about—healthy, tasty, and easy to prep!
The best part? You can customize the recipe to fit your dietary preferences. Alright, are you ready to make some No Bake Chocolate Cherry Protein Bars? Let’s do it!
Chocolate Cherry Protein Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup ground oats I used old fashioned oats and put them in the food processor
- 1 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1 tbsp ground flax
- 12 oz. peanut butter You can slightly microwave the peanut butter so that it is easier to stir in.
- ¼ sliced almonds
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
- ¼ cup dried cherries
Instructions
- In a medium sized mixing bowl, combine the ground oats, protein powder, and flax seed and stir with a spatula.
- Add in the peanut butter and stir until the batter starts to form and is well combined.
- Fold in the almonds, chocolate chips, and cherries.
- Press firmly into an 8×8 baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You can use the back of a spoon, bottom of a glass, or your hands.
- Place in the freezer and freeze for 2 hours or until firm.
- Slice into desired sized bars.
- Store in the refrigerator or freezer and enjoy.
Notes
Nutrition
What’s one of your favorite protein-packed snacks?
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