Tired of store-bought protein bars with too much fat and too many mystery ingredients? These low fat protein bars are your homemade solution. Each one is packed with over 10 grams of protein and just 3 grams of fat, making them perfect for low-fat, high-protein eating. They’re soft, naturally sweetened, and made from simple ingredients you can feel good about. Whether you need a post-workout snack or a mid-afternoon energy boost, these bars deliver clean fuel with great flavor.
About This Recipe
Imagine a protein bar that actually tastes like a treat. These are soft with a slightly dense texture, thanks to the combination of protein powder and oats, and they’re naturally sweetened with applesauce and a hint of maple syrup. You can customize the flavor easily—vanilla, chocolate, peanut butter (powdered!), or cinnamon raisin.
These bars are ideal for meal prepping since they don’t require baking and hold up beautifully in the fridge. You can wrap them individually for a convenient snack throughout the week or bring them along as a gym bag essential.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Diet
Instead of using nut butters or oils, this recipe uses unsweetened applesauce and powdered peanut butter to lower fat while still providing structure and flavor. With over 10 grams of protein per bar, they help you stay full and energized without extra calories from fat.
What You’ll Need (Ingredients)
We’re using protein powder, oats, and smart low-fat binders to create a nutritious snack bar you’ll love.
- Vanilla or Chocolate Protein Powder (1 cup): The protein base—choose a flavor you like since it drives the taste.
- Oat Flour (1 cup): Provides structure and fiber while keeping it gluten-free if needed.
- Unsweetened Applesauce (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and natural sweetness without fat.
- Powdered Peanut Butter (1/4 cup): Gives that nutty taste with just a fraction of the fat of regular peanut butter.
- Maple Syrup or Honey (2 tbsp): Just enough to sweeten and help the bars hold together.
- Almond Milk or Skim Milk (2–4 tbsp): Adjust for consistency.
- Cinnamon (1/2 tsp): Optional, but adds a cozy flavor note.
How to Make Low-Fat Protein Bars
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the protein powder, oat flour, powdered peanut butter, and cinnamon.
- Stir in the wet ingredients: Add applesauce and maple syrup. Mix well.
- Adjust the consistency: Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture becomes a thick dough.
- Press into a pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment. Press the dough firmly and evenly into the pan.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm, then slice into 8 bars.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Add mini chocolate chips or raisins for variety, but note they may raise the fat slightly.
- For extra texture, stir in a few tablespoons of puffed rice cereal or chopped dried fruit.
- Want a chocolate version? Use chocolate protein powder and add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder.
- To make them gluten-free, use certified GF oat flour and protein powder.
How to Store Leftovers
Wrap each bar individually in plastic or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. They also freeze well—just thaw overnight before eating.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 1 bar (1/8 of recipe)
- Calories: 148 kcal
- Fat: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Protein: 11 g
- Sodium: 85 mg
Try More Recipes:
Low Fat Protein Bars
Description
These easy, chewy protein bars pack over 10g of protein with just 3g of fat—perfect for healthy snacking or post-workout fuel.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine protein powder, oat flour, powdered peanut butter, and cinnamon.
- Mix in applesauce and syrup.
- Add milk gradually to form dough.
- Press into lined 8×8-inch pan.
- Chill 2+ hours, then slice into bars.