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Apple Pie Protein Bars Recipe

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4.4 from 8 reviews

Delicious and nutritious Apple Pie Protein Bars combine creamy cashew butter, warm apple pie spices, and plant-based protein powder for a perfect on-the-go snack. These bars are packed with dried apples and pecans, offering a great balance of sweetness and texture without baking, making them quick and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup drippy unsalted cashew butter
  • 3 1/2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 tbsp melted coconut oil (use refined for a neutral taste)
  • 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
  • 1/2 cup plant-based protein powder
  • 1 tablespoon coconut flour ( + more as needed)
  • 2 teaspoon apple pie spice
  • 1/8 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1/4 cup chopped dried apples ( + more for topping)
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons finely chopped pecans (+ more for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan: Line an 8 x 4 inch loaf pan with parchment paper or use another similar-sized loaf pan. Set it aside to prepare the mixture.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cashew butter, maple syrup, unsweetened applesauce, melted coconut oil, and vanilla bean paste. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
  3. Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in 1/3 cup of plant-based protein powder first, then gradually add more as needed. The goal is to achieve a moldable but firm dough, not too wet or dry. Next, add the coconut flour, apple pie spice, and sea salt. Mix thoroughly and knead with clean hands until a thick cookie dough texture forms.
  4. Adjust Consistency: If the mixture feels too wet, add coconut flour one teaspoon at a time. If it’s too dry, add a little maple syrup or coconut oil slowly. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary.
  5. Fold in Mix-Ins: Gently fold in the chopped dried apples and finely chopped pecans for added texture and flavor.
  6. Press into Pan: Press the mixture extremely firmly into the prepared loaf pan using your hands or a flat spatula to compact the dough tightly. Evenly sprinkle additional chopped apples and pecans on top for a decorative finish.
  7. Freeze and Set: Place the loaf pan in the freezer for at least 30 minutes or until the bars are firm and set.
  8. Cut and Store: Remove from the freezer, lift the bars out using the parchment paper, and cut into eight even bars. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.

Notes

  • Use refined coconut oil for a neutral taste that doesn’t overpower the flavors.
  • If your nut butter is too thick or dry, slightly warm it to make it more workable.
  • Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more maple syrup if desired.
  • These bars are best stored in the fridge but can be frozen for longer storage.
  • Feel free to substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds.
  • Ensure the mixture is packed extremely firmly for bars that hold together well.

Find it online: https://recipeplenty.com/apple-pie-protein-bars-recipe/