Heather’s Protein Oat Bars

Chocolate-Covered Cheerios Protein Granola Bars

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Cheerios cereal
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup protein powder (chocolate or vanilla flavor)
• 1/2 cup almond butter
• 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips, for melting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the Cheerios, rolled oats, protein powder, chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to combine.
2. Create the Binding Mixture:
   • In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the almond butter and honey (or maple syrup). Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Pour the almond butter mixture over the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl. Use a spatula to mix everything together until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated with the almond butter mixture.
4. Press into Pan:
   • Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands to press it firmly and evenly into the pan, ensuring it’s tightly packed.
5. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the mixture is set. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan.
6. Optional Chocolate Topping:
   • If desired, melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the cooled granola bars and spread it evenly using a spatula. Let it set at room temperature or place it in the refrigerator for quicker setting.
7. Slice and Enjoy:
   • Once the chocolate topping has set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the granola slab out of the baking dish. Transfer it to a cutting board and slice it into bars or squares of your desired size.
   • Store the chocolate-covered Cheerios protein granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.

These protein-packed granola bars are perfect for a quick breakfast on the go, a satisfying midday snack, or a post-workout refuel. With their irresistible combination of crunchy Cheerios, nutty goodness, and a decadent layer of chocolate, they’re sure to become a new favorite snack.