Cranberry Pistachio Protein Bars Recipe

There’s something truly magical about a recipe that brings the whole family together, sparking joy and creativity in the heart of the kitchen. These Cranberry Pistachio Protein Bars are not only a burst of vibrant colors but also a delightful symphony of flavors. Perfect for a cozy afternoon of baking, these bars are packed with protein, making them a wholesome snack for kids and adults alike. Whether it’s an after-school treat, a post-workout snack, or a delightful accompaniment to your morning coffee, this recipe is certain to become a family favorite.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup puffed rice cereal
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup roasted and shelled pistachios
• 1/2 cup almond butter
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to easily lift out the bars after baking.
2. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, puffed rice cereal, dried cranberries, pistachios, and protein powder.
3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the almond butter and honey together until they form a smooth mixture. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
4. Pour the almond butter mixture over the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly until everything is well coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, pressing it down firmly and evenly.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish before lifting them out and cutting into squares or rectangles.

Helpful Tips:

• If you prefer chewier bars, reduce the baking time by a couple of minutes.
• You can substitute almond butter with peanut butter or any other nut butter of your choice.
• For added texture, include a handful of chia seeds or flaxseeds in the dry mixture.
• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate for a longer shelf life.

Pairings:

Enjoy these Cranberry Pistachio Protein Bars with a glass of cold almond milk, a cup of hot green tea, or even alongside a refreshing fruit salad. They make a perfect companion for your mid-morning coffee or as a quick grab-and-go breakfast option.

At Zynahz, we’re all about bringing joy and creativity into your kitchen. Our mission is to make every cooking experience delightful and engaging. We warmly encourage you to try this recipe, share your tasty creations with us, and spread the love with your friends and family. Don’t forget to explore more on Zynahz, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter. Happy cooking!