High-Protein PB&J Bars (Printable Version)

Nutty, protein-packed bars with peanut butter drizzle and fruity jelly swirls, perfect for any snack.

# What You'll Need:

→ Cereal Base

01 - 4 cups crisp rice cereal
02 - 1.5 cups mini marshmallows
03 - 0.25 cup unsalted butter
04 - 0.25 cup creamy peanut butter
05 - 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 - Pinch of salt

→ Protein Drizzle

07 - 0.5 cup vanilla protein powder
08 - 0.33 cup creamy peanut butter
09 - 2 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk
10 - 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey

→ Jelly Swirl

11 - 0.33 cup fruit jelly or jam

# How To Make It:

01 - Line an 8x8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and peanut butter together. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
03 - Add the crisp rice cereal to the melted mixture and fold until evenly coated.
04 - Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared baking pan.
05 - In a small bowl, whisk together protein powder, peanut butter, almond milk, and maple syrup until smooth and pourable. Adjust milk for consistency if needed.
06 - Drizzle the protein mixture evenly over the pressed cereal layer.
07 - Spoon small dollops of jelly over the protein drizzle. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the jelly and protein drizzle together for a marbled effect.
08 - Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until set.
09 - Lift the bars out using the parchment overhang and cut into 12 equal squares.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and easy to prepare in just 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
  • Protein-packed upgrade to traditional Rice Krispie treats
  • Perfect balance of creamy peanut butter and sweet fruit jelly
  • Great for meal prep - make once, enjoy all week
  • Kid-friendly but sophisticated enough for adults
02 -
  • For cleaner cuts, chill the bars thoroughly and use a knife dipped in hot water (and wiped dry) between slices.
  • If your protein powder tends to clump, sift it before mixing to ensure a smooth drizzle.
  • For more vibrant swirls, warm your jelly slightly before dolloping it on top of the bars.
  • Work quickly when mixing the cereal with the marshmallow mixture - it firms up fast!
  • Store in single layers with parchment between if stacking to prevent sticking.
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