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Homemade Protein Bars for Kids (No Weird Ingredients) - Easy, Tasty, and Kid-Approved

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 12 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned; quick oats also work)
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter (or almond butter, sunflower seed butter for nut-free)
  • 1/3 cup honey (or pure maple syrup)
  • 1/4 cup milk (dairy or unsweetened plant milk)
  • 1/4 cup ground flaxseed (or chia seeds)
  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (or raisins)
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt (optional, but it boosts flavor)

Instructions
 

  • Prep the pan: Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment, leaving a little overhang for easy lifting.
  • Warm the wet ingredients: In a medium bowl, stir peanut butter, honey, milk, and vanilla until smooth. If stiff, microwave the bowl for 15–20 seconds to loosen.
  • Add the dry mix: Stir in oats, ground flaxseed, salt, coconut (if using), and chocolate chips or raisins.
  • Adjust texture: The mixture should be thick and slightly sticky. If too dry, add 1 tablespoon milk. If too wet, sprinkle in more oats.
  • Press into the pan: Transfer mixture to the lined dish. Press firmly with a spatula or the back of a measuring cup to compact evenly into the corners.
  • Chill to set: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or 20 minutes in the freezer for a quick set.
  • Slice: Lift out using the parchment and cut into 12 bars or 16 small squares for younger kids.
  • Serve: Enjoy as-is, or drizzle with a tiny bit of melted chocolate for a treat.