Espresso Protein Bars

Espresso Protein Bars

These chocolate hazelnut espresso protein bars combine dates, espresso, Cacao Balance, nut butter, and dark chocolate for a rich snack.

Craving something rich and chocolatey with a little coffeehouse energy? These chocolate hazelnut espresso protein bars combine chewy Medjool dates, bold espresso, creamy nut butter, and Glim Cacao Balance into a satisfying homemade treat that feels indulgent while packing in protein and nourishing ingredients.

Medjool dates provide natural sweetness and a soft, chewy texture, while almond flour and vanilla protein powder create a more satisfying base. Nut butter adds creamy healthy fats, and Cacao Balance brings a deep chocolate flavor with functional ingredients. Finish everything with dark chocolate and roasted hazelnuts for an irresistible crunch. For a high protein snack, use your favorite protein powder, and easily make these gluten free by choosing certified gluten free ingredients.

Start by soaking the dates with espresso powder and boiling water for 10 minutes. Blend the softened dates with the almond flour, protein powder, Cacao Balance, nut butter, coconut oil, and sea salt until a soft, moldable dough forms. Press firmly into a lined loaf pan and freeze for 20 to 30 minutes before cutting into 6 bars. Dip each bar into melted dark chocolate mixed with chopped roasted hazelnuts, then freeze again until set. Store the finished bars in the refrigerator or freezer for an easy healthy meal prep snack whenever a chocolate craving hits.

The combination of espresso, dark chocolate, and toasted hazelnuts makes these bars taste like a coffee shop treat in snack form. Make a batch ahead of time, keep them chilled, and enjoy one whenever your sweet tooth calls. If you try them, rate the recipe and share your creation with us!

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Espresso Protein Bars

Espresso Protein Bars

Varsha Chawla

Servings

6 Bars

Your afternoon coffee craving just met your chocolate craving in one rich, chewy protein bar packed with espresso, dark chocolate, and toasted hazelnuts. But how do these coffeehouse inspired bars deliver that indulgent flavor while still fitting ...

Ingredients

  • 1 Cup Medjool dates, pitted

  • 1 Tbsp instant espresso powder (or decaf espresso powder)

  • 1/3 Cup boiling water

  • 1 Cup almond flour

  • 1/2 Cup vanilla protein powder

  • 3 Tbsp Glim Cacao Balance

  • 1/4 Cup peanut butter or cashew butter

  • 2 Tbsp melted coconut oil

  • Pinch of sea salt

  • Chocolate Coating

  • 1/2 Cup dark chocolate, chopped

  • 1 Tsp coconut oil

  • 1/4 Cup chopped roasted hazelnuts

Directions

  1. Add the dates, espresso powder, and boiling water to a bowl. Let soak for 10 minutes.

  2. Transfer the soaked dates and any remaining liquid to a food processor. Add the almond flour, protein powder, Cacao Balance, nut butter, coconut oil, and sea salt. Blend until a soft, moldable dough forms. If needed, add a splash of water or spoonful of almond flour to get a achieve a sticky but pliable dough.

  3. Press the mixture firmly into a parchment-lined loaf pan, creating an even layer. Freeze for 20 to 30 minutes until firm.

  4. Cut into 6 bars.

  5. Melt the dark chocolate with the coconut oil until smooth. Stir in the chopped hazelnuts. Dip each bar into the chocolate and lay onto a parchment line plate.

  6. Chill in the freezer until the chocolate has set. Store in the fridge or freezer.