No-Bake Gluten Free Protein Bar Recipe

I'd mentioned in my previous post that I wanted to try my recipe with protein powder and make my own protein bars at home.  Well, I did, and they are awesome!

They went together fast and easy, and they taste great.  I did change my recipe a little bit to make more so I could send some bars with my hubby.

These bars will make a great treat after I finish my workouts.  Just like my other bars, these are packed with a bunch of super-foods that will offer a high level of nutrition.  Each bar has over 11 grams of protein. 

Before I share the recipe, I'd like to state that I do not have an intolerance to gluten.  But I know many people that do, and many that are trying to limit their consumption.  So, I figured that I'd tweak this recipe to accommodate that dietary need.  There are 2 ingredients that you need to make sure are labeled Gluten Free to have these bars be just that: Rice Cereal and Steel Cut Oats.  Rice cereal that is not labeled gluten free typically has barely malt in it, and that's the ingredient that contains gluten.  Steel cut oats are naturally gluten free, however if they are manufactured in a plant that also processes wheat, barely, and rye, they can become contaminated.  So, if you need to avoid gluten, make sure you get the gluten free option when purchasing the rice cereal and oats.  The other ingredients will not pose an issue. 

Dry Ingredients waiting to be stirred.

Pressed and set.

Packaged and ready to grab and go.

No-Bake Gluten Free Protein Bars

Dry ingredients:
2 cups rice cereal (gluten free)
1/2 c steel cut oats (gluten free)
1/2 c unsweetened shredded coconut
1 Tbs hemp seeds
1 Tbs chia seeds
4 scoops Vanilla ProFit Protein powder 
2 Tbs cacao nibs
1/2 c goji berries
1/2 c dried pineapple, diced
1/4 c raw, unsalted almonds, chopped

Wet mix:
1 c almond butter (or natural peanut butter)
2/3 c raw honey
1 tsp cinnamon

1. In a mixing bowl, combine all dry ingredients, and set aside. 
2. In a microwave safe bowl, combine all wet ingredients. Microwave on High for 30 seconds. Stir until combined and smooth. 
3. Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients.  Combine thoroughly (I used my hands...you may want to wear gloves because it's sticky). 
4. Transfer mixture into a wax paper-lined 9x13" dish and press to evenly pack into dish. Press firmly and pack down into the dish to prevent the bars from crumbling after cutting.
5. Chill for 30-60 minutes in refrigerator, or until firm and set. 
6. Cut into 12 bars. Wrap individually and store in refrigerator for up to 1 week.