These No Bake Oreo Protein Bars are a tasty treat that you can whip up in no time! With crushed Oreos, protein powder, and creamy peanut butter, they’re both yummy and filling.
Who wouldn’t want a snack that tastes like dessert but packs a protein punch? I love keeping these bars in the fridge for a quick pick-me-up after a workout. They’re perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Oreo Cookies: These are your star ingredient! The classic chocolate and cream flavor provides a tasty base. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use a generic chocolate sandwich cookie or even a gluten-free version.
Chocolate Protein Powder: I love using chocolate-flavored protein powder for richness. If you want to switch it up, vanilla protein powder works too, while adding a bit more cocoa powder for flavor.
Almond Milk: Almond milk is great for moisture. Feel free to swap it for any milk you prefer, like soy, oat, or dairy milk. Each brings a slightly different flavor, so choose according to your taste!
Nut Butter: Peanut butter gives a lovely creaminess. You can use almond butter, cashew butter, or sun butter for a nut-free option. Just keep in mind that flavor profiles will vary slightly with different nut butters.
Cream Cheese: This adds a delightful creaminess to your bars. For a lighter option, you could use Neufchâtel cheese or Greek yogurt. It might change the flavor a little, but they’re yummy alternatives!
What’s the Best Way to Layer the Bars?
Layering your bars is key to a good texture and flavor mix! Start with the chocolate layer, pressing it firmly into the pan. This helps it hold its shape later. Make sure it’s level for an even top layer.
- Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to pack the chocolate layer tight.
- Let it cool in the fridge until it’s firm, which can take around 30 minutes.
- When spreading the cream cheese layer, do it gently to avoid mixing it into the chocolate layer.
- After layering, always refrigerate for a few hours or overnight. This makes cutting easier and keeps everything together.
No Bake Oreo Protein Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Bars:
- 20 Oreo cookies, divided (12 crushed, 8 halved for topping)
- 1 cup chocolate protein powder
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/4 cups almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter (or almond butter)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust for sweetness)
For The Cream Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup Greek yogurt or cottage cheese (for creaminess and protein)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 4 hours of chilling in the refrigerator. You’ll spend just a little bit of time mixing and spreading the layers, and then you simply wait for them to set. It’s a delicious and easy treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pan:
Start by lining an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper. Remember to leave some overhang on the sides; this will make it easier to lift the bars out later!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate protein powder, unsweetened cocoa powder, and 12 crushed Oreo cookies. Mix them together until well combined.
3. Heat the Wet Ingredients:
In a small saucepan over low heat, gently warm the almond milk, peanut butter, vanilla extract, and honey or maple syrup. Stir until everything is smooth and blended together. Be sure not to bring it to a boil!
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the warm liquid mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir nicely until everything is well mixed. The mixture should be thick but still pourable.
5. Form the Bottom Layer:
Press the chocolate mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer. Make sure it’s packed down well to hold the shape. Place the pan in the fridge while you prepare the cream layer.
6. Prepare the Cream Layer:
In a separate bowl, whip together the softened cream cheese and Greek yogurt until they are smooth and fluffy. This step gives your bars that creamy texture!
7. Add Crushed Oreos:
Crush a few more Oreos into small pieces and gently fold them into the cream cheese mixture. This adds some fun texture to the cream layer.
8. Create the Cream Cheese Layer:
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled chocolate base. Make sure it covers the entire surface for a nice finish!
9. Garnish:
Garnish the top with the halved Oreos and some additional crushed Oreos to make them look extra delicious.
10. Chill Until Firm:
Cover the prepared bars and refrigerate them for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you have the time. They need to set well so they cut easily!
11. Cut and Serve:
Once set, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or rectangles, whichever you prefer.
12. Store:
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They make a great snack or a post-workout treat!
Enjoy your delicious, protein-packed Oreo bars without any baking required! Perfect for satisfying that sweet tooth while keeping it healthy!
Can I Use Different Types of Protein Powder?
Absolutely! While chocolate protein powder gives the best flavor for this recipe, you can substitute with vanilla protein powder if that’s what you have. Just consider adding an extra tablespoon of cocoa powder to maintain the chocolate taste.
Can I Substitute the Oreos?
Yes, you can substitute Oreos with any chocolate sandwich cookie, or use a gluten-free version if needed. For a healthier twist, try using dark chocolate cookies or homemade chocolate cookies.
How Long Do These Bars Last in the Refrigerator?
These No Bake Oreo Protein Bars can last up to a week in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly over time, so enjoy them fresh if you can!
Can I Freeze These Bars?
Yes! You can freeze the bars for longer storage. Just slice them into pieces, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container. They should last for about 2-3 months. Thaw them in the fridge before enjoying!
