Save to Pins Bring a high-protein boost to a nostalgic childhood treat with these High-Protein PB&J Rice Krispie Bars. Combining the classic crunch of rice cereal with the creamy richness of peanut butter and vibrant jelly swirls, this no-bake snack is designed for both flavor and function. Whether you need a quick breakfast on-the-go or a satisfying post-workout treat, these bars offer a perfect balance of chewy texture and sweet-salty satisfaction.
Save to Pins By incorporating protein powder directly into the peanut butter base and the decorative drizzle, these bars transform a simple dessert into a more nutritious option. The result is a satisfyingly dense and chewy bar that keeps you fueled without the sugar crash associated with traditional cereal treats.
Ingredients
- Base
- 4 cups crisped rice cereal
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Toppings
- 1/3 cup peanut butter (for drizzle)
- 2 tbsp vanilla or unflavored protein powder (for drizzle)
- 2 tbsp milk (dairy or plant-based, as needed for consistency)
- 1/3 cup strawberry or grape jelly (or jam), slightly warmed
Instructions
- Step 1
- Line an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- Step 2
- In a large saucepan, gently heat 1 cup peanut butter and honey (or maple syrup) over low heat, stirring until smooth and combined. Remove from heat.
- Step 3
- Stir in vanilla extract, salt, and 1/4 cup protein powder until fully incorporated.
- Step 4
- Add crisped rice cereal and mix until evenly coated.
- Step 5
- Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Step 6
- In a small bowl, mix 1/3 cup peanut butter with 2 tbsp protein powder and enough milk to create a thick, pourable drizzle.
- Step 7
- Drizzle the peanut butter protein mixture over the pressed base.
- Step 8
- Warm the jelly slightly to loosen, then drop spoonfuls over the top. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the jelly and peanut butter drizzle decoratively.
- Step 9
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 40 minutes, or until set.
- Step 10
- Lift out of the pan using parchment, cut into 12 bars, and enjoy.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best results, use a large saucepan and a spatula for even mixing. The use of parchment paper in an 8x8-inch baking pan is essential for easy removal. These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, maintaining their crispy texture and fudgy topping.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly adaptable; you can substitute almond or sunflower seed butter for the peanut butter if desired. For a vegan version, use maple syrup and a plant-based protein powder. Experiment with different jelly flavors like raspberry, blueberry, or apricot to customize the fruit swirls to your liking.
Serviervorschläge
Once set, slice the block into 12 even bars. Each bar provides approximately 185 calories, 8g of fat, 22g of carbohydrates, and 7g of protein. Always check the labels of your crisped rice cereal and protein powder for hidden allergens, particularly regarding gluten and dairy, to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.
Save to Pins These High-Protein PB&J Rice Krispie Bars offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will satisfy any sweet craving while providing a useful protein boost. Enjoy them cold from the fridge for the best experience and a perfectly chewy bite.
Questions & Answers
- → Can I use different nut butters?
Absolutely. Almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or cashew butter work well as substitutes for peanut butter. Keep in mind the flavor profile will shift slightly depending on your choice.
- → What type of protein powder works best?
Vanilla or unflavored whey or plant-based protein powder both work beautifully. Avoid heavily flavored varieties that might clash with the peanut butter and jelly combination.
- → How long do these bars stay fresh?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The chilled texture actually enhances the chewy, satisfying crunch of the cereal base.
- → Can I make these vegan?
Yes. Use maple syrup instead of honey and choose a plant-based protein powder. The texture and flavor remain virtually identical to the original version.
- → What jelly flavors work best?
Strawberry and grape are classic choices, but raspberry, blueberry, apricot, or even mixed berry jam create delicious variations. Warm slightly for easier swirling.
- → Why chill the bars before cutting?
Chilling allows the peanut butter drizzle and jelly to set completely, ensuring clean cuts and preventing the toppings from smearing. Thirty to forty minutes in the refrigerator does the trick.