High-Protein PB&J Rice Krispie Bars

Enjoy a nutritious upgrade to a classic childhood favorite with these High-Protein PB&J Rice Krispie Bars. These crispy, chewy treats are elevated with a creamy peanut butter protein drizzle and luscious jelly swirls, providing 7 grams of protein and approximately 185 calories per bar for a satisfying snack or breakfast on-the-go.

Pin it

Making these bars is straightforward and requires only a few kitchen essentials like an 8x8-inch baking pan and a large saucepan. By swirling warmed jelly into a thick peanut butter drizzle, you create a beautiful, decorative finish that looks as good as it tastes.

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

Get hot or cold water instantly for cooking, tea, coffee, and quick meal prep.

Check price on Amazon

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 bars are structurally sound, press the cereal mixture firmly into the pan with a spatula. Don't forget to use parchment paper with an overhang, which makes lifting the set bars out for cutting much easier. For the best results, ensure you chill the bars for the full 40 minutes to let the topping set.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is highly versatile; you can substitute almond or sunflower seed butter for peanut butter and experiment with different jelly flavors like raspberry, blueberry, or apricot. For a vegan-friendly version, simply use maple syrup and a plant-based protein powder.

Serviervorschläge

These bars are perfect for meal prep and keep well for up to one week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They make a fantastic on-the-go breakfast or a guilt-free dessert after a long day.

Pin it

With their perfect balance of sweet jelly and salty peanut butter, these High-Protein PB&J Rice Krispie Bars are sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the nostalgic crunch of this easy-to-make, vegetarian snack that fits seamlessly into a healthy lifestyle.

Transfer liquids, oils, and dry ingredients cleanly into bottles and jars while cooking or baking.

Check price on Amazon

Recipe FAQs

→ How long do these bars keep?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The bars maintain their texture and flavor best when kept chilled.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.

→ What protein powder works best?

Vanilla or unflavored whey or plant-based protein powder both work well. Choose one that mixes smoothly without grit.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Absolutely. Use maple syrup instead of honey and select a plant-based protein powder to make these completely vegan-friendly.

→ Can I substitute the peanut butter?

Almond butter or sunflower seed butter make excellent alternatives if you need to avoid peanuts or prefer a different flavor profile.

→ Why warm the jelly before swirling?

Warming the jelly slightly makes it more pourable and easier to swirl decoratively with the peanut butter drizzle without tearing the base.