Homemade Peanut Butter Protein Bars

Happy Monday! I totally disconnected from my technology over the weekend and it was amazing. I watched three movies with the hubby (see Side Effects!), went to "the beach" (post coming soon), and knitted some drink koozies for my sister (and a possible giveaway... stay tuned).

How are you feeling after your weekend? This morning I went into work at 9a (I usually don't start until 12:30p)  so I definitely needed a boost! I was in great shape after eating a PB Protein Bar.

These homemade bars have only five ingredients and require no baking. Store bought proteins bars often have a laundry list of ingredients. How do you know what you are actually ingesting?  The bars are sweet and packed with a great peanut butter taste and lots of protein. I found the original recipe here, whipped up a batch, and haven't looked back!

Homemade Peanut Butter Protein Bars

Ingredients

• 1 cup reduced fat peanut butter or allergy-friendly substitute
• 1/2 cup protein powder (your choice of flavor)
• 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 cup zero calorie sugar substitute or brown sugar or 1/4 cup brown sugar blend (your choice)
• 4 Tbsp no sugar added applesauce

  Directions

1. If your peanut butter is in the fridge, remove it. Let it warm at room temperature until it is a stirable consistency.
2. In a bowl, mix the peanut butter and applesauce until they form a smooth paste.
3. In a separate bowl, combine remaining ingredients. Mix well.
4. Pour dry ingredients over peanut butter mixture a little at a time. Mix well until all ingredients are blended.
5. Section mixture into the number of protein bars you want.
6. Shape sectioned mixture into bar shapes with your hands.
7. Place bars into individual Ziplock bags and place in freezer.
8. Enjoy as a snack or meal replacement!