High-Protein Chocolate Cherry Bars for a Healthy Holiday Snack

What kind of recipe is it?

High-Protein Chocolate Cherry Bars are a delicious and nutritious treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and tart cherries in a convenient bar form.

These bars are packed with protein, making them an ideal snack for athletes, busy professionals, and anyone seeking a healthier alternative to sugary sweets. Their chewy texture and natural sweetness make them a satisfying option for a post-workout boost or an afternoon pick-me-up.

Cooking these bars is easy and rewarding, ensuring you enjoy a guilt-free indulgence that fuels your day.

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Rolled oats	1 cup
Protein powder (chocolate or vanilla)	1/2 cup
Dried cherries	1 cup
Almond butter	1/2 cup
Honey or maple syrup	1/4 cup
Unsweetened cocoa powder	1/4 cup
Chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips	1/4 cup
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon
Sea salt	1/4 teaspoon
Water (if needed)	As required (1-2 tablespoons)

This table outlines the specific ingredients and their quantities for making High-Protein Chocolate Cherry Bars, allowing you to gather everything you need before starting the cooking process.

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Cooking Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 175 °C (350 °F) and position the oven rack in the center.

Prepare an 8-inch (20 cm) square pan by lining it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 240 ml (1 cup) of rolled oats, 120 g (1/2 cup) of protein powder, 40 g (1/4 cup) of unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt.

Stir until well mixed.

3. In a separate bowl, combine 120 ml (1/2 cup) of almond butter with 60 ml (1/4 cup) of honey or maple syrup and 5 ml (1 teaspoon) of vanilla extract.

If the mixture is too thick, add water in 1 tablespoon increments until smooth and pourable.

4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and mix thoroughly to guarantee all dry ingredients are fully incorporated.

Add in 150 g (1 cup) of dried cherries and 40 g (1/4 cup) of chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips, folding them gently into the mixture until evenly distributed.

5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press it down firmly with a spatula or your hands to create an even layer.

Aim for a thickness of about 1 cm (1/2 inch).

6. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes.

The edges should look firm, and the center should be slightly soft but not gooey. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs.

7. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift it out using the parchment overhang and place it on a wire rack to cool completely.

8. After the bars have cooled to room temperature, cut into 12 bars or your desired size.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Enjoy your high-protein chocolate cherry bars!

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Variations

Nutty Banana Bars: Substitute 120 g (1/2 cup) of protein powder with almond flour and add 1 mashed ripe banana for extra sweetness and moisture.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Cherry Bars: Replace almond butter with 120 ml (1/2 cup) of peanut butter for a richer flavor, enhancing the classic chocolate-peanut combo.
Vegan Coconut Bars: Use 120 ml (1/2 cup) of coconut oil in place of nut butter and choose maple syrup for a fully vegan treat, adding 50 g (1/2 cup) of shredded coconut for extra texture.
Pumpkin Spice Protein Bars: Incorporate 120 g (1/2 cup) of pumpkin puree and 5 g (1 teaspoon) of pumpkin pie spice to infuse autumn flavors into the bars, creating a seasonal twist.

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Tips on plating and presentation

To make your High-Protein Chocolate Cherry Bars look as delicious as they taste, I recommend focusing on the presentation.

Arrange the bars on a colorful plate, and consider garnishing with fresh cherries or a dusting of cocoa powder for visual appeal.

Drizzling a bit of melted dark chocolate over the top adds elegance.

Don’t forget to pair them with a lovely napkin for that extra touch!

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

If you’re looking to complement your High-Protein Chocolate Cherry Bars, a few carefully chosen dishes can elevate your meal.

I love pairing them with a fresh fruit salad or a light yogurt parfait for contrast.

Serving alongside some nutty granola adds a delightful crunch.

A side of roasted vegetables also harmonizes beautifully, creating a balanced, satisfying experience for your holiday snacking.

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What drinks can I pair it with?

While enjoying my High-Protein Chocolate Cherry Bars, I’ve found that the right drink can truly enhance the experience.

A warm cup of almond milk complements the rich chocolate perfectly, while a revitalizing cherry-flavored sparkling water adds a fun twist.

For something different, try pairing it with a smooth cold brew coffee to balance the sweetness.

These options elevate my snack time delightfully!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Substitute Cherries With Another Fruit in This Recipe?

I’ve substituted cherries with blueberries or raspberries before, and they work just as well. Experimenting with different fruits adds a unique twist, so feel free to explore what you enjoy most in your recipe!

How Long Do the Chocolate Cherry Bars Last in Storage?

These chocolate cherry bars last about a week in airtight storage at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, I usually store them in the fridge, where they can keep for up to two weeks.

Are These Bars Suitable for Vegan Diets?

No, these bars aren’t suitable for vegan diets since they contain ingredients like whey protein or dairy chocolate. I suggest looking for vegan-friendly alternatives if you’re following a plant-based lifestyle. They can still be delicious!

Can I Make These Bars Gluten-Free?

Yes, you can definitely make these bars gluten-free! I usually substitute regular flour with almond flour or gluten-free oat flour. It keeps the texture enjoyable while ensuring they’re safe for anyone avoiding gluten. Give it a try!

What Is the Calorie Count per Bar?

Each bar contains approximately 150 calories. I always keep track of the ingredients to guarantee I enjoy my snacks without guilt. If you’re mindful of calories, these fit perfectly into a balanced diet!