These easy homemade protein bars (cinnamon roll) taste like a cozy treat but are made with real, wholesome ingredients. No baking required, naturally sweetened, and packed with protein and fiber, they’re perfect for meal prep, post-workout fuel, or grab-and-go breakfasts.
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats old-fashioned
- ¾ cup protein powder vanilla or unflavored
- ½ cup nut butter almond butter or peanut butter
- Flavor Base
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup maple syrup or honey
- Pantry Staples
- ¼ –⅓ cup milk dairy or plant-based
- 1 –2 tbsp chia seeds or ground flaxseed optional
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prep pan: Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oats, protein powder, cinnamon, salt, and chia/flax if using.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, stir nut butter, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine: Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until a thick, sticky dough forms.
- Press: Firmly press mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the top.
- Chill: Refrigerate for 1–2 hours until fully set.
- Slice: Lift out using parchment and cut into bars.
Notes
- Press the mixture firmly—this is key for bars that hold together.
- If mixture is too dry, add 1 tbsp milk at a time.
- If too sticky, add a bit more oats or protein powder.