Have you ever had one of those days where you just need a snack that feels like a hug? These Easy Keto Low Carb Protein Bars are just like that—comforting yet healthy. Inspired by my recent obsession with quick, guilt-free treats (thanks to binge-watching cooking shows), these bars pack a punch without the carbs.
Steps
- Line an 8×8 inch pan with wax paper to prepare for the mixture. This will help in removing the bars easily once they are set.
- Combine nut or seed butter, collagen, acacia fiber, and sweeteners in a mixing bowl. Mix until the ingredients form a slightly crumbly texture; if it is too wet, add more collagen, acacia, or coconut flour to achieve the desired consistency.
- Press the mixture into the prepared pan, fold the excess wax paper over, and press down evenly to form the base of the bars.
- Melt chocolate and coconut oil together on low heat using a stovetop or microwave. Ensure the chocolate does not overheat to avoid clumping.
- Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the pressed base and place the pan in the fridge or freezer. Allow the chocolate to set and harden.
- Once firm, remove the bars from the pan and cut into 12 pieces or your preferred size. Enjoy your homemade low-carb keto protein bars!
Ingredients
- 1 cup nut or seed butter of choice (e.g., roasted almond butter or homemade sunbutter for a nut-free version)
- 1/2 cup collagen
- 1/4 cup acacia fiber (or 2 tablespoons coconut flour)
- 1/4 cup Lankanto Maple Syrup (or other sticky sweeteners like coconut nectar or honey if not following a keto diet)
- 1/4 cup Lankanto Monk Fruit Sweetener, powdered (you can powder your own sweetener if preferred)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 2412 kcal | Carbohydrates: 72g | Protein: 72g | Fat: 180g | Saturated Fat: 36g | Sodium: 144mg | Potassium: 1860mg | Fiber: 60g | Sugar: 24g | Calcium: 864mg | Iron: 18mg
FAQ
- What is collagen and why is it used in keto protein bars?
- Collagen is a vital protein in the body, providing structure to hair, skin, nails, and connective tissues. It is beneficial in keto protein bars as it enhances skin, hair, and nail health, reduces joint discomfort, supports gut health by repairing the intestinal lining, and is a high-protein ingredient that blends seamlessly into recipes.
- What is acacia fiber and what are its benefits?
- Acacia fiber is an organic, prebiotic soluble fiber that helps regulate bowel movements and promotes fullness, making it a valuable addition to a diet. It also supports gut health by nourishing beneficial gut bacteria and can alleviate digestive issues such as constipation or diarrhea.
- Can I make these protein bars non-low carb?
- Yes, you can easily modify the recipe for a non-low carb version. Substitute any sticky sweetener, such as honey, coconut nectar, or maple syrup, for the low carb syrup. Replace powdered erythritol with regular powdered sugar as needed.
- What is the preparation time for these keto protein bars?
- The preparation time for these no-bake keto protein bars is approximately 7 minutes, making them a quick and easy snack option.
- How can I achieve the right consistency when mixing ingredients?
- If the mixture appears too wet, it may be due to the oil content in the nut or seed butter used. To correct this, add a few more tablespoons of collagen, acacia fiber, or coconut flour to achieve the desired consistency.
Tips
- When mixing the ingredients for your protein bars, if the mixture appears too wet, it may be due to an oilier nut or seed butter. Simply add additional tablespoons of collagen, acacia fiber, or coconut flour to achieve the right consistency.
- To prevent the chocolate from seizing, melt it gently over low heat on the stovetop or use a microwave with caution, ensuring not to overheat it.
- For a non-keto version, substitute the low-carb syrup with your choice of sticky sweeteners like honey, coconut nectar, or maple syrup, and replace powdered erythritol with powdered sugar.
- To ensure even pressing of the mixture into the pan, use waxed paper to fold over the top and press down evenly before chilling.
Equipment
- Mixer – A stand mixer or hand mixer for blending the ingredients.
- Blendtec Blender – Specifically mentioned for powdering sweeteners, though any high-power blender could be used.
- 8 x 8 Pan – While common, not everyone may have this specific size for making bars.
- Waxed Paper – For lining the pan, which some people might not typically have in their kitchen supplies.
