Name: Cranberry Almond Protein Bars Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups Blue Diamond Almonds; ⅔ cup puffed rice cereal; ⅔ cup dried cranberries; ½ cup unsweetened coconut flakes; 1 hemp seeds; ⅓ cup brown rice syrup; 2 tbsp honey; 1 tsp vanilla extract

These cranberry almond protein bars are the perfect blend of sweet and healthy. Packed with nutritious almonds and dried cranberries, they make for an excellent on-the-go snack or a post-workout treat. The combination of honey, brown rice syrup, and vanilla extract adds a delightful sweetness without being overpowering. Plus, the addition of hemp seeds and puffed rice cereal provides a satisfying crunch.

Photos of Cranberry Almond Protein Bars Recipe

Brown rice syrup and hemp seeds may not be common pantry staples, so you might need to visit the health food section of your supermarket. Brown rice syrup is a natural sweetener often used in healthier recipes, while hemp seeds are packed with protein and healthy fats, making them a nutritious addition to these bars.

Ingredients for Cranberry Almond Protein Bars

almonds: Whole almonds provide a crunchy texture and are rich in protein and healthy fats.

puffed rice cereal: Adds a light and crispy texture to the bars.

dried cranberries: These add a sweet and tart flavor, creating a delightful contrast.

unsweetened coconut flakes: Adds a mild sweetness and a chewy texture.

hemp seeds: Packed with protein, these seeds add a nutritional boost.

brown rice syrup: A thick, natural sweetener that helps bind the ingredients together.

honey: Adds sweetness and helps hold the bars together.

vanilla extract: Adds a rich, aromatic flavor.

One reader, Artie Herring says:

These cranberry almond protein bars are fantastic! The combination of almonds, cranberries, and coconut is delicious, and the bars hold together perfectly. They make a great snack or quick breakfast. Highly recommend!

Artie Herring

Key Techniques for Making Cranberry Almond Protein Bars

How to line a baking dish: Use parchment paper to cover the bottom and sides of the dish to prevent sticking. How to combine ingredients: Mix the dry ingredients together in a bowl until they are evenly distributed. How to heat syrup mixture: Stir the brown rice syrup, honey, and vanilla in a saucepan over medium-high heat until it boils. How to measure temperature: Use a candy thermometer to ensure the syrup mixture reaches 260 degrees F. How to press mixture into dish: Transfer the coated mixture to the lined baking dish and press it firmly to create an even layer. How to cool and cut bars: Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then lift it out using the parchment paper and cut into desired shapes and sizes.

How To Make Cranberry Almond Protein Bars

Satiate yourself with a delicious batch of protein bars in the afternoon! These bars are loaded with sweet fruits, crunchy nuts, and tasteful cereal.

Preparation: 25 minutes

Cooking: 5 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2cupsBlue Diamond Almonds
⅔cuppuffed rice cereal
⅔cupdried cranberries
½cupunsweetened coconut flakes
1hemp seedsoptional
⅓cupbrown rice syrup
2tbsphoney
1tspvanilla extractstore-bought or homemade

Instructions

Line an 8 x 8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, add the almonds, puffed rice cereal, cranberries, coconut, and hemp seeds, then toss to combine. Set aside.
Stir the brown rice syrup, honey and vanilla together in a small saucepan.
Heat over medium-high heat until boiling, stirring occasionally.
Let the sauce boil for 4 to 5 minutes, or until it reaches about 260 degrees F, stirring occasionally.
Pour the syrup mixture evenly over the almond mixture, then very quickly stir until everything is evenly coated.
Quickly transfer the mixture to the lined baking dish, and press it firmly into the dish in an even layer.
Let the bars cool for 30 minutes or until they reach room temperature.
Carefully lift up the parchment paper from the baking dish and transfer it to a cutting board.
Cut the bars into desired shapes and sizes.
Serve, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

The bars will last up to 10 days. Or if you freeze them, they will last up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 345.33kcal
Fat: 21.42g
Saturated Fat: 4.41g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.45g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.51g
Carbohydrates: 34.72g
Fiber: 5.94g
Sugar: 12.89g
Protein: 8.02g
Sodium: 26.25mg
Calcium: 99.00mg
Potassium: 299.76mg
Iron: 1.95mg
Vitamin C: 0.13mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Cranberry Almond Protein Bars

To ensure your protein bars hold together well, make sure to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the baking dish. Using a flat-bottomed object like a measuring cup can help achieve a compact and uniform layer, which will result in bars that are less likely to crumble when cut.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Cranberry Almond Protein Bars

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set aside all ingredients before starting. This ensures a smooth and quick assembly.

Use a food processor: Quickly chop almonds and mix dry ingredients using a food processor to save time.

Microwave syrup mixture: Heat the brown rice syrup and honey in the microwave instead of on the stove to speed up the process.

Line the dish efficiently: Use pre-cut parchment paper to line the baking dish quickly and neatly.

Press with a flat tool: Use a flat-bottomed glass or spatula to press the mixture firmly into the dish for even bars.

Substitute Ingredients For Cranberry Almond Protein Bars Recipe

blue diamond almonds - Substitute with cashews: Cashews provide a similar crunch and creamy texture, making them a good alternative for almonds.
puffed rice cereal - Substitute with puffed quinoa: Puffed quinoa offers a similar light and crispy texture while adding a bit more protein and nutrients.
dried cranberries - Substitute with dried cherries: Dried cherries have a similar tartness and chewy texture, making them a great replacement for dried cranberries.
unsweetened coconut flakes - Substitute with chopped nuts: Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add a similar texture and a different but complementary flavor.
hemp seeds - Substitute with chia seeds: Chia seeds provide a similar nutritional profile with added fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
brown rice syrup - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a similar consistency and sweetness, though it may impart a slightly different flavor.
honey - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar has a similar sweetness and viscosity, making it a good alternative for honey.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can provide a different but pleasant flavor that complements the other ingredients well.

Creative Ways to Serve Cranberry Almond Protein Bars

Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the cranberry almond protein bars into elegant, bite-sized pieces to ensure a refined presentation. This allows each guest to savor the flavors without feeling overwhelmed.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a light dusting of unsweetened coconut flakes and a few whole dried cranberries for a pop of color and texture. This adds visual appeal and hints at the ingredients within the bars.
Add a sauce: Drizzle a thin line of honey or a brown rice syrup reduction on the plate. This not only enhances the presentation but also complements the sweetness of the bars.
Incorporate texture: Place a small mound of puffed rice cereal on the side of the plate to add a crunchy element. This creates a contrast with the chewy texture of the bars.
Use elegant plating: Arrange the bars on a sleek, white plate to make the colors of the cranberries and coconut flakes stand out. The simplicity of the plate will highlight the sophistication of the dish.
Highlight the ingredients: Place a few whole Blue Diamond almonds and a sprinkle of hemp seeds around the bars. This not only adds a decorative touch but also showcases the premium ingredients used in the recipe.
Add a fresh element: Include a small sprig of fresh mint or a few edible flowers on the plate. This adds a touch of freshness and elevates the overall presentation.
Create height: Stack a couple of bars slightly askew to add dimension and height to the presentation. This creates a more dynamic and visually interesting plate.
Use a contrasting background: Place the plate on a dark or wooden surface to make the colors of the cranberry almond protein bars pop. The contrast will draw attention to the dish and make it more visually appealing.
Serve with a beverage: Pair the bars with a small glass of almond milk or a light herbal tea. This not only complements the flavors but also adds an element of sophistication to the presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Protein Bars

Baking dish: An 8 x 8-inch dish lined with parchment paper to shape and cool the bars.
Parchment paper: Used to line the baking dish for easy removal of the bars.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl to combine the almonds, puffed rice cereal, cranberries, coconut, and hemp seeds.
Small saucepan: Used to heat and boil the brown rice syrup, honey, and vanilla extract.
Stirring spoon: For stirring the syrup mixture and the almond mixture.
Thermometer: To measure the temperature of the syrup mixture, ensuring it reaches about 260 degrees Fahrenheit.
Spatula: To quickly transfer and press the mixture into the baking dish.
Cutting board: To place the cooled mixture for cutting into bars.
Knife: For cutting the bars into desired shapes and sizes.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Cranberry Almond Protein Bars

Once the cranberry almond protein bars have cooled completely, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help prevent them from sticking together and will also maintain their freshness.
Place the wrapped bars in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. This will protect them from moisture and prevent them from absorbing any odors from other foods in your pantry or refrigerator.
If you plan to consume the bars within a week, you can store them at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. However, if you live in a warm or humid environment, it's best to store them in the refrigerator to prevent them from becoming too soft or sticky.
To keep the bars fresh for an extended period, you can store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Simply place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, and label it with the date.
When you're ready to enjoy a frozen bar, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about an hour. Alternatively, you can microwave the bar for 10-15 seconds to soften it slightly before consuming.
If you find that the bars have become too hard after storing them in the refrigerator or freezer, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying them. This will allow them to soften and become more pliable.

Interesting Trivia About Cranberry Almond Protein Bars

A random fact about this recipe is that hemp seeds are a great source of plant-based protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. This makes these cranberry almond protein bars not only delicious but also a nutritious snack option.

Budget-Friendly Homemade Protein Bars: Is This Recipe Economical?

This cranberry almond protein bars recipe is moderately cost-effective. The primary ingredients like blue diamond almonds, dried cranberries, and brown rice syrup can be a bit pricey, but they offer high nutritional value. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $15-$20. Considering the health benefits and the homemade factor, it's a worthwhile investment. Overall Verdict: 7/10.

Are Cranberry Almond Protein Bars Healthy?

This cranberry almond protein bar recipe is a healthier alternative to store-bought snack bars. It contains several nutritious ingredients, such as:

Almonds: Rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber
Puffed rice cereal: Low in calories and provides a light, crispy texture
Dried cranberries: Offer a natural sweetness and are a good source of antioxidants
Unsweetened coconut flakes: Provide healthy fats and fiber
Hemp seeds: High in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and minerals

However, the recipe also includes brown rice syrup and honey, which are sources of added sugars. While these sweeteners help bind the ingredients together, they can also increase the overall sugar content of the bars.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of brown rice syrup and honey, or replace them with natural sweeteners like dates or pure maple syrup, which offer more nutrients and fiber
Increase the proportion of nuts and seeds to boost the protein and healthy fat content
Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the mixture for an extra protein boost
Experiment with different dried fruits, such as goji berries or mulberries, for variety and additional antioxidants
Include a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavors and provide trace minerals

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutrient-dense snack that will keep you feeling satisfied and energized throughout the day.

Editor's Opinion on This Protein Bar Recipe

This cranberry almond protein bar recipe is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The combination of almonds, puffed rice cereal, and dried cranberries provides a satisfying crunch and natural sweetness. The unsweetened coconut flakes and hemp seeds add a nutritious boost. The brown rice syrup and honey mixture binds everything together perfectly, ensuring the bars hold their shape. The recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it ideal for a quick, healthy snack. Overall, it's a well-balanced, tasty, and nutritious option for anyone looking to make homemade protein bars.

Enhance Your Cranberry Almond Protein Bars Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Pair your Cranberry Almond Protein Bars with a velvety Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness of the squash will complement the nutty crunch of the bars, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Add a sprinkle of nutmeg and a dollop of Greek yogurt for an extra touch of luxury.

Grilled Chicken Salad: For a protein-packed meal, serve the bars alongside a vibrant Grilled Chicken Salad. The smoky, savory notes of the grilled chicken will contrast beautifully with the sweet and tart cranberries in the bars. Toss in some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light balsamic vinaigrette to tie it all together.

Mango Avocado Salsa: Brighten up your snack time with a refreshing Mango Avocado Salsa. The creamy avocado and juicy mango chunks will add a tropical twist to your Cranberry Almond Protein Bars. Serve it with whole grain crackers or tortilla chips for a delightful crunch.

Spiced Sweet Potato Fries: Add a touch of warmth to your meal with Spiced Sweet Potato Fries. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes and the kick from the cayenne pepper will enhance the flavors of the bars. Serve them hot with a side of garlic aioli for dipping.

Berry Yogurt Parfait: End your meal on a sweet note with a Berry Yogurt Parfait. Layer Greek yogurt with fresh berries and a drizzle of honey. The creamy, tangy yogurt and the burst of berry flavors will perfectly complement the nutty, fruity goodness of the Cranberry Almond Protein Bars.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Like Cranberry Almond Protein Bars

Chocolate Chip Protein Bars: Indulge in these delicious chocolate chip protein bars that are perfect for a quick snack or post-workout treat. Packed with protein and a hint of sweetness, these bars will keep you energized throughout the day.

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars: Satisfy your cravings with these peanut butter oatmeal bars. They are chewy, nutty, and loaded with wholesome ingredients that make for a perfect breakfast or snack option.

Blueberry Almond Energy Bites: Boost your energy with these blueberry almond energy bites. These bite-sized treats are easy to make and are filled with nutritious ingredients to keep you going strong.

Pumpkin Spice Protein Bars: Embrace the flavors of fall with these pumpkin spice protein bars. They are not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber, making them a great choice for a healthy snack.

Apple Cinnamon Granola Bars: Enjoy the classic combination of apple and cinnamon in these homemade granola bars. They are perfect for a quick breakfast on the go or a tasty afternoon snack.

Why trust this Cranberry Almond Protein Bars Recipe:

This recipe combines the wholesome goodness of blue diamond almonds, puffed rice cereal, and dried cranberries to create a delicious and nutritious snack. The use of unsweetened coconut flakes and hemp seeds adds a unique texture and flavor, while the brown rice syrup and honey provide natural sweetness. With a simple preparation process and high-quality ingredients, these bars are perfect for a quick energy boost. Trust this recipe for its balance of taste and health benefits.

Want to share your experience making these Cranberry Almond Protein Bars or have your own favorite protein bar recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing forum and join the discussion!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of nut instead of almonds?

Absolutely! You can substitute almonds with any other nut you prefer, like cashews, walnuts, or pecans. Just make sure to keep the measurements the same.

What can I use instead of brown rice syrup?

If you don't have brown rice syrup, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute. Keep in mind that the texture and sweetness might vary slightly.

How do I store these protein bars?

You can store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks or freeze them for up to three months.

Can I add chocolate to these bars?

Definitely! You can mix in some chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the top before letting them cool. It adds a delicious twist to the bars.

Are these bars gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free puffed rice cereal, these bars are gluten-free. Just double-check all your ingredients to make sure they don't contain any hidden gluten.