Energy/ protein bars make a huge dent in our grocery budget each month. I would hide my face in shame if I really kept track and admitted how many we go through in a month, but my kids love them and I need the simplicity of a grab and go snack.
We serve these more as a treat than a health food, but they are still favorite quick filler for all three of my kids, all of whom have very different palates. (VERY different.) We have messed with this recipe a lot and it’s very forgiving. My kids are always moaning, “I’m starvingggg” so these bars somehow took on the name “Starving Bars” and then were shortened to “Star Bars.”
2 C. Organic Creamy Peanut Butter
1 1/4 C. Honey (can increase to 1 & 3/4 C if you like a gooey bar)
2 1/4 cups Arbonne Vanilla Protein Shake Mix
2 & 3/4 C. Quick Cooking Oats
Optional:
Arbonne makes a Chocolate Flavor Protein Shake Mix, but I seldom have that. Sometimes I toss in a few TB of Cocoa Powder to cut the vanilla flavor. I also add some unsweetened shredded coconut, and have added chopped nuts. If you choose to omit these optional add-ins, you can increase the oats to 3 Cups.
Directions:
Melt peanut butter and honey. You can use the microwave or the stovetop. In a separate large bow, mix the protein shake mix and the oats together. Mix in the optional add-ins. Pour the melted peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients and mix well. With a spatula or greased hands, spread and press into a 9×13 pan. Place in fridge for 1 hour. Cut into squares. Store in the fridge. If you try this recipe, let me know what you think!
Yes, this Protein Shake Mix is expensive, but we often pay $1.50-$2.00 for a decent protein bar. This recipe makes 24 bars, and each Protein Mix bag includes 2 Lbs 12.4 oz. Making these instead of buying energy bars is a definite money saver.
(I highly suggest finding an Arbonne Consultant to work with. Deana and Holly Lesch have both hosted Norwex parties with me. I love Arbonne girls, they are educated women who are excited to find more ways to bring healthy choices in to their homes!)
