Copycat Homemade Perfect Bars

Save money and make your favorite protein bars at home! These Copycat Homemade Perfect Bars are made with simple ingredients and satisfy just like the real deal.

Let's face it, there is a time and a place for protein bars. They are quick, convenient, and go wherever you go! A handy option when time is limited and you need something FAST. Something we don't love? The price tag. Coming in at over $2-3 a pop, those bars can add up fast! That's why we started making our own Copycat Homemade Perfect Bars. Delicious and satisfying, these bars are made with a handful of everyday ingredients and come together in minutes. They offer the taste and texture you love for a fraction of the price.

WHAT YOU NEED TO MAKE THIS RECIPE

Oat flour
While it sounds fancy, oat flour is simply rolled oats that have been put through the blender until soft and fluffy. We ALWAYS make our own at home because it's quick, easy, and costs way less than store bought.

Almond Flour
Almond flour adds protein, healthy fat, and stability to the bars. It is a gluten and dairy-free alternative to wheat flour and milk powder and is a core ingredient in our Fudgy Almond Flour Brownies.

Collagen Peptides
While not essential for making these bars, collagen adds protein and that filling factor to keep you satisfied longer. You can swap collagen out for your favorite protein powder or omit altogether.

Peanut (or Almond) Butter
You can't have copycat Perfect Bars without nut butters! Peanut Butter is a common base but we switch up the butters each time we make them! You can use creamy or crunchy depending on preference and swap with seed butters for a fun twist!

Flaxseed
Ground flaxseed is our favorite sneaky add-in. We don't intentionally seek to trick anyone but love that ground flax can be tossed into just about ANY recipe without changing the flavor or texture. What is DOES add is fiber, protective phytochemicals and healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids.

Honey
Honey adds the perfect sweetness and binds ours bars together. Agave or maple syrups can be substituted in its place with only mild change in flavor.

Vanilla & Salt
Touches of vanilla and salt add flavor. If using a salted nut butter you can feel free to omit.

Add-Ins
Our favorite part! Chocolate chips are a classic go-to but don't let the fun end there! Freeze-dried fruit, sprinkles, nuts, and puffed rice cereal can all add texture and flavor to your bars.

HOW TO MAKE THESE BARS

These bars are SO easy to make that once you make them a few times, you'll know it like the back of your hand!

Step 1
To start, prepare your oat flour. (If using store bought skip right to step 2!) Simply add dry rolled oats to a blender and process for 1-2 minutes, or until light, fluffy, and fully ground.

Step 2
Add all the dry ingredients to a large mixing bowl and stir together to combine.

Step 3
Next, add the wet ingredients to the same mixing bowl. Stir very well until mixture is completely incorporated (note: it may take a little elbow grease to full mix).

The mixture should be slightly tacky and not overly dry.

Step 4
Add in chocolate chips and fold together to incorporate.

Step 5
Firmly press mixture into an 8x6 or similar pan. Using a spoon or, our favorite, a smooth can, press or roll the mixture into shape.

Make sure to press mixture down firmly so your bars stay together when sliced.

Step 6
Chill bars for 30 minutes prior to slicing. Enjoy!

WHY WE LOVE THESE BARS

From a nutrition standpoint, these bars pack a punch. They have a great breakdown of macronutrients (carbs, protein, and fat) and dietary fiber which helps them satisfy longer than your average snack. They make a great anytime snack, post workout recovery bar, and even fuel for pregnant and post-partum mommas. These bars are also free from gluten and dairy for those than need it and can be made nut-free for school or travel.