Quinoa Protein Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars are simple to make, packed with natural protein, and don’t require any baking. Quinoa adds a nutty flavor and a complete protein profile, while oats and nut butter provide lasting energy. You can easily customize the flavor, adjust the sweetness, or add mix-ins to suit your tastes. Great for meal prep and totally freezer-friendly, they’re an ideal snack or quick breakfast option.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked quinoa (cooled)
• Rolled oats
• Nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew)
• Honey or maple syrup
• Protein powder (unflavored, vanilla, or chocolate)
• Chia seeds or flaxseeds
• Vanilla extract
• Salt
• Optional mix-ins: mini chocolate chips, dried fruit, shredded coconut, chopped nuts

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, oats, protein powder, chia seeds, and salt.
2. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the nut butter and honey (or maple syrup) until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until fully combined.
5. Fold in any optional mix-ins.
6. Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper and press the mixture firmly into an even layer.
7. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.
8. Slice into bars and enjoy.

Servings and timing

Makes 9–12 bars.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
No baking required.

Variations

• Chocolate lovers: Add cocoa powder and chocolate chips.
• Nut-free version: Use sunflower seed butter and skip nut-based add-ins.
• Tropical twist: Add coconut flakes and dried pineapple or mango.
• Spiced: Mix in cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice for a cozy flavor.
• Crunchy: Add puffed quinoa or crisped rice cereal for a crispy texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container:

• In the refrigerator for up to 1 week
• In the freezer for up to 2 months
  No reheating necessary—thaw frozen bars in the fridge or at room temperature before eating.

FAQs

Do I need to cook the quinoa first?

Yes, the quinoa should be fully cooked and cooled before mixing it into the bars.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture will be softer and less chewy.

What type of protein powder is best?

Any unflavored or mildly flavored plant-based or whey protein works well.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes, use maple syrup and plant-based protein powder.

Are these gluten-free?

Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oats and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I skip the protein powder?

You can, but the bars will have less protein. Add more oats or quinoa to make up the bulk.

Why aren’t my bars holding together?

Make sure to press the mixture firmly into the pan and chill thoroughly before cutting.

Can I bake these bars?

They’re designed to be no-bake, but you can bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes for a firmer texture.

How much protein is in each bar?

Each bar contains roughly 8–12 grams of protein, depending on the protein powder and portion size.

Can I use leftover quinoa?

Yes, as long as it’s plain and fully cooked. Avoid quinoa cooked with seasonings or broth.

Conclusion

Quinoa Protein Bars are a smart, delicious, and energizing snack made with real, nourishing ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a post-workout bite, a mid-afternoon snack, or a healthy grab-and-go breakfast, these bars deliver flavor and fuel in every chewy bite. Prep a batch and power through your week with ease.

Quinoa Protein Bars

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Quinoa Protein Bars are chewy, no-bake snack bars made with cooked quinoa, oats, nut butter, and protein powder. They’re packed with plant-based protein and perfect for on-the-go snacking or meal prep.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 9–12 bars
• Category: Snack, Breakfast
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: Universal
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked quinoa (cooled)
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew)
• 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 cup protein powder (unflavored, vanilla, or chocolate)
• 1 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseeds
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Optional mix-ins: 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips, 1/4 cup dried fruit, 1/4 cup shredded coconut, 1/4 cup chopped nuts

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Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, rolled oats, protein powder, chia seeds, and salt.
2. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the nut butter and honey (or maple syrup) until smooth and well combined.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until fully combined.
5. Fold in any optional mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit.
6. Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper and press the mixture firmly into an even layer.
7. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.
8. Slice into 9–12 bars and enjoy.

Notes

• Use plain, fully cooked and cooled quinoa for best results.
• Press the mixture firmly into the pan to help the bars hold together.
• Bars can be stored in the fridge or freezer—great for meal prep.
• Customize with spices, mix-ins, or different nut butters to change the flavor profile.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (based on 12 bars)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg