Low Fat Cranberry Oatmeal Protein Bars

Low Fat Cranberry Oatmeal Protein Bars

I really didn't know what to expect when I made these. Generally speaking, most protein bars taste gross to me (not to mention they're loaded with sugar and fat). But, I've heard several recommendations from personal trainers and chefs alike, that you should really make your own protein bars - they're far healthier and much more delicious. 

So, I gave it a shot - and they were really, really good! I'm excited to play with this recipe a bit and make some variations. But these make the perfect post workout or midday snack.  

Ingredients 

• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar 
• 1/4 cup Agave Nectar
• 6 ounce fat free Greek yogurt 
• 2 egg whites 
• 2 tablespoons skim milk 
• 1 teaspoons vanilla 
• 2 tablespoons canola oil 
• 1 1/2 cup all purpose flour 
• 1 teaspoons baking soda 
• 1 teaspoons ground cinnamon 
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder (I used Whey Protein)
• 1/2 teaspoons salt 
• 2 1/2 cups quick oats 
• 1 cup fresh cranberries 
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips

Directions 

Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Whisk together the sugar, agave, yogurt, milk, vanilla, oil, and egg whites in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, add flour, baking soda, cinnamon, protein powder and salt. In a food processor, pulse the cranberries until coarsely chopped, about 10 pulses.

Add yogurt mixture to flour mixture and mix well. 

Once incorporated, add oats, chocolate chips and cranberries. 

Pour into a greased 13x9 baking pan.  Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool to room temperature before slicing. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.