Sugar cookies aren’t just for dessert. These homemade sugar cookie protein bars are easy to make and taste like a treat. Get the recipe now.
Based off of my On the Trail Protein Bars, this sugar cookie version is more dessert-like and softer.
If you’re looking for a crunchy or even chewy bar then this recipe is not for you.
These bars are for the cookie dough lovers who appreciate not having a surprise crunch from a nut or chew from a raisin. It also doesn’t hurt that they taste like a sugar cookie as well 😉
There are just 6 ingredients in these homemade bars:
Note: Do not substitute peanut butter for the cashew butter!
The key to the buttery sugar cookie flavor is the mild, slightly sweet cashew butter. As I’m allergic to macadamia nuts, I haven’t tried these bars using macadamia nut butter, but I think it could work well as a substitute!
If in a pinch you can use almond butter, but I still prefer the cashew butter flavor.
There are many types of protein powders and they all have different benefits and absorb liquid differently.
While I prefer whey protein for post-workout shakes (see this post on why), when it comes to making protein bars I prefer the flavor and texture that plant-based protein powders provide.
Specifically, I like Sun Warrior’s vanilla protein powder(no affiliate here, just personal preference) as it provides a great thickness to products and isn’t too sweet.
Other brands I like include:
Before using a vanilla protein powder in this recipe, make sure that you like the taste of it when mixed with your milk of choice as that’ll give you an idea of how these bars will taste (albeit they will still be a bit sweeter and more buttery thanks to the maple syrup and cashew butter).
These bars are best straight out of the fridge.
If bringing to work, I recommend keeping them in a lunchbox with an ice pack or storing in your work fridge.
With all the holiday baking going on, I hope you enjoy these simple protein-packed bars when those sweet cravings hit!
If you enjoy these bars or have tips for making them even better, let me know! Drop a comment below or message me on Instagram @TheHealthyToast_RD.
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