Protein Cereal Bars

Key Ingredients

Here is what you’ll need to make these high-protein cereal bars. I’m also included some tested substitutions, so you have options:

• Dry cereal. I like to use Cheerios, but any simple cereal works. I did test this with gluten-free Cheerios to see if they were any different. Spoiler alert: they are the same.
• Vanilla protein powder. I like to use casein protein powder, but brown rice and pea protein also works. I don’t recommend whey protein, as it actually makes the bars sticky and loose.
• Nut butter. Any smooth, drippy nut butter works, like almond butter or peanut butter. I went with peanut butter because that’s what I had on hand but use your favorite.
• Brown rice syrup. I tested a few different liquid sweeteners and preferred the texture of brown rice syrup. You could use honey or agave if you like, but add one extra tablespoon since they’re not as sticky. 

How to make protein cereal bars

Step 1- Mix. In a large bowl, combine the cereal and protein powder. 

Step 2- Combine. Melt the nut butter with brown rice syrup, then pour it into the cereal mixture. Stir until just combined. Overmixing will crush the cereal.

Step 3- Refrigerate. Pour the bar mixture into the baking pan and press firmly into place. Top with chocolate chips if desired, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up (use the back of a spoon- it sets faster). Then, use a sharp knife to slice into bars.

Ways to change things up

I’ve made these for friends with nut allergies and my niece who won’t try anything remotely healthy. Here are some tested tweaks:

• Make them nut-free. Use seed butter like sunflower seed butter or tahini instead. I prefer sunbutter, as it adds a subtle caramel flavor.
• Cut the carbs. Use keto maple syrup, keto cereal, and sugar-free chocolate chips. 
• Experiment with other mix-ins, like mini marshmallows, chopped-up candy, nuts, or dried fruit.