Blueberry Lemon Protein Bar

Ingredients

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 cups whole oats (I like using Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free Oat Flour)
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 3 scoops vanilla or unflavored protein powder
• 2 TB almond flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 cup Fairlife fat-free protein milk (or unsweetened vanilla Almond milk)
• 1/2 cup Greek plain non-fat yogurt
• 2 tsp lemon zest (from 1-2 lemons)
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 cup fresh blueberries (divided, 3/4 cup in the batter, 1/4 cup on top)
• 1-2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional for extra sweetness)

Instructions

Directions:

• Preheat your oven: to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×11 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly coat it with non-stick spray. I’ve also made this as a loaf and it was great in this format too!
• Make Oat Flour (if using oats): If you’re using whole oats, blend them in a food processor or blender until they reach a fine, flour-like consistency. Skip this step if you’re using oat flour.
• Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the oat flour, baking powder, protein powder, salt, and cinnamon. Stir until well mixed.
• Blend wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, applesauce, vanilla extract, and honey/maple syrup (if using).
• Combine and fold: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in 3/4 cup of the blueberries.
• Pour and top: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of blueberries on top.
• Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Cool and serve: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into 12 bars and enjoy!
• Store: Keep the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for 4-5 days, or freeze them for longer storage. Enjoy them chilled or warmed up for a quick, satisfying snack.
• Optional Frosting: For an extra boost of flavor, mix protein powder with a small amount of water until it reaches a frosting-like consistency. Once the bars have cooled completely, drizzle the frosting over the top for a delicious finishing touch.