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30 Minutes or Less

Meal Prep Protein Pancake Bars

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overhead image of protein pancake bars in a sheet pan.

As a new mom of two kids my motto is work smarter, not harder. And to me, working smarter means prepping a big batch of easy grab-and-go meals at the start of my week to help the rest of my week run smoothly. A few meal prep recipes I’ve been loving lately are my high-protein overnight oats (great for breakfast, but also snack!), high-protein breakfast biscuits (with ham & cheese – yum!), and now these protein pancake bars. And you know who else has been absolutely loving these pancake bars? My toddler! He gobbles these up for breakfast every single morning. And trust me, if my toddler loves these bars, you will too! Give ’em a try this weekend, and thank me later when you have a weeks worth of breakfast prepped and ready for whatever life throws at you. 🙂

Why You’ll Love These Meal Prep Protein Pancake Bars

  • Over 25 grams of protein and just 300 calories per serving
  • Great for meal prep and busy mornings
  • Naturally gluten-free and easily made dairy-free
  • Low sugar and lightly sweetened
  • Made entirely in the blender
  • Easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins

These bars taste like fluffy pancakes but are sturdy enough to grab, pack, and reheat throughout the week!

protein pancake bars in a storage container.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much protein does each pancake bar have?

Each bar contains 12+ grams of protein, depending on the protein powder and yogurt you use.

Can I freeze these pancake bars?

Yes! These protein pancake bars freeze very well. Let them cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or let thaw overnight in the fridge.

What kind of protein powder did you use?

I used Aloha plant-based vanilla protein powder (this link gets you 20% off aloha!), but I’ve also made these with Vital Farms unflavored collagen powder and they’re just as delicious. Any vanilla or unflavored protein powder will work.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • Dairy-free: Use dairy-free yogurt and plant-based protein powder
  • Egg-free: Use liquid egg substitute, I recommend the Bob’s Red Mill Egg Replacer
  • Lower fat: Swap coconut oil for melted butter or avocado oil
  • Add-ins: Blueberries, chocolate chips, sliced bananas, or chopped nuts
  • Extra flavor: Add cinnamon or a pinch of salt
overhead image of protein pancake bars in a sheet pan.
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Meal Prep Protein Pancake Bars

These protein pancake bars are a healthy, high-protein breakfast with over 25 grams of protein and just 300 calories per serving! Made in the blender with simple ingredients, they’re gluten-free, low sugar, and perfect for meal prep. If you love pancakes but need a quick grab-and-go option, these protein pancake bars are ideal for busy mornings all week long!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Equipment

  • 1 blender
  • 1 9×13-inch sheet pan

Ingredients

  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 cup protein powder
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or cottage cheese
  • 3 tablespoons melted coconut oil or butter
  • 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup to taste
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350° Fahrenheit and lightly grease a 9×13-inch sheet pan.
  • Add all ingredients to the blender, except for any mix-ins, and blend util smooth.
  • Pour the pancake batter into a grease 9×13-inch sheet pan, then top with any mix-ins you’d like. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pancake bars have puffed up and are lightly golden brown around the edges.
  • Remove the pancake bars from the oven, then lett hem cool before slicing into 12 bars and either enjoying right away or storing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 300kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 15g | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g
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30 Minutes or Less

High Protein Overnight Oats (35g protein!)

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high protein overnight oats in a jar with fresh berries on top.

My husband sat me down recently and admitted that he’s been starving in the mornings, and asked if I could help come up with a solution. And I gave it exactly half a second of thought before I said – overnight oats! So I wrote down a recipe for him and he started prepping this exact recipe of high protein overnight oats for himself every week. After the first week he circled back with me and was happy to report that not only were these oats delicious, but they really did keep him full all morning long (hard to do – he has the fastest metabolism of anyone I know, HA!). Ever since then I knew I needed to share this recipe with the world! It’s creamy, not too sweet, totally delicious, super easy to make (if my husband can make it, anyone can), and packed with 35 grams of protein.

And to top it all of? I love enjoying these oats with my protein coffee recipe for an extra 15 grams of protein to start my day!

Why You’ll Love These High Protein Overnight Oats

  • They contain a whopping 35 grams of protein per serving!
  • These oats are a healthy, balanced breakfast that keeps you full for hours.
  • Perfect for meal prep – make once, and enjoy them all week long.
  • Ready in just a few minutes!
  • These high protein overnight oats are naturally gluten-free (use certified gluten-free oats).
  • They’re ideal for a quick grab-and-go breakfast!

These oats are thick, creamy, lightly sweetened, and easy to customize based on what you have on hand!

high protein overnight oats in jars on a table.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much protein is in these overnight oats?

Each serving contains about 35 grams of protein, depending on the protein powder, yogurt, and milk you use.

What kind of protein powder did you use?

I used Aloha’s vanilla plant-based protein powder (use this link for 20% off!) because I love the taste and texture, but any vanilla or unsweetened protein powder will work. Even collagen powder is a great option!

How long do these oats last in the fridge?

These overnight oats last up to 1 week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, making them perfect for meal prep.

What jars did you use?

I used this pack of jars from Amazon – 16-ounce jars work perfectly for single servings and are easy to grab on busy mornings.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • Make it dairy-free: Use dairy-free yogurt and plant-based milk.
  • Lower sugar: Skip the maple syrup or use a sugar-free sweetener instead.
  • Extra thick oats: Add another teaspoon of chia seeds for super thick overnight oats.
  • More flavor: Stir in cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra flavor.
  • Add toppings: Fresh berries, nut butter, chocolate chips, nuts, or granola are some of my favorite toppings!
high protein overnight oats in a jar with fresh berries on top.
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High Protein Overnight Oats (35g protein!)

These high protein overnight oats are creamy, filling, and packed with 35 grams of protein, making them a perfect healthy breakfast! They come together in just a few minutes, are great for meal prep, and make an easy grab-and-go option for busy mornings. Naturally gluten-free and endlessly customizable, these overnight oats will keep you full and satisfied all week long!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 serving

Equipment

  • 1 16-ounce jar or container

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 scoop (or 1 serving) protein powder
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or sweetener of your choice
  • 3/4 cup milk I used almond milk

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to an 8-ounce jar, then stir to combine and secure with a lid.
  • Store the oats in the fridge for at least 6 hours and up to 1 week. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 430kcal | Carbohydrates: 53g | Protein: 35g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 10g | Sugar: 17g
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30 Minutes or Less

5 Ingredient Cookie Dough Protein Balls

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cookie dough protein balls on a plate

Why You’ll Love These Protein Balls

Easy, No-Bake Snack: Made with just 5 simple ingredients and ready in minutes – no oven required!

Packed with Protein: Each ball contains 7 grams of protein, making them a perfect post-workout or midday snack.

Healthy & Dietary-Friendly: Gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and naturally sweetened with maple syrup.

Recipe Variations

  • Mix in Superfoods: Add chia seeds, flaxseeds, or hemp hearts for extra fiber and omega-3s.
  • Swap the Nut Butter: Use almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor. For nut-free, use sunflower seed butter.
  • Boost the Chocolate: Dip the balls in melted dark chocolate and let them harden in the fridge for a chocolate-covered protein treat!

The Mixture is Too Dry, What Do I Do?

If the mixture is dry or crumbly, simply:

  • Add 1 tablespoon of water or almond milk at a time until the dough comes together.
  • Alternatively, add an extra tablespoon of peanut butter for more moisture and flavor.
Hand holding a cookie dough protein ball.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make it Nut-Free: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter and use oat flour instead of almond flour.
  • Make it Keto: Use almond flour instead of oats and a sugar-free maple syrup alternative.
  • Make it Grain-Free/Paleo: Skip the oats and use almond flour for a smooth, doughy texture.

Storage Instructions

  • Fridge: Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Let thaw for a few minutes before enjoying.

More Healthy Snack Recipes

If you love these no-bake protein balls, check out my other snack recipes like:

Enjoy these 5-ingredient cookie dough protein balls as a nutritious snack or dessert! 😋

cookie dough protein balls on a plate
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Cookie Dough Protein Balls

Satisfy your sweet tooth with these 5-ingredient cookie dough protein balls – the perfect no-bake snack! Packed with 7 grams of protein per ball, they’re gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, making them ideal for a healthy energy boost. Ready in minutes, they’re a delicious and nutritious way to fuel your day!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Equipment

  • 1 medium bowl

Ingredients

  • 1 cup rolled oats or almond flour
  • 1/4 cup vanilla protein powder
  • 1/4 cup peanut butter
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to a medium bowl and stir until thoroughly combined.
  • Roll mixture into 1-inch balls.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 145kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 6g | Sugar: 7g
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30 Minutes or Less

5-Ingredient Healthy Homemade Granola Recipe

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Homemade granola being scooped off a baking sheet with a measuring scoop.

This homemade granola recipe has been a staple in my home for over 3 years! In fact, it’s one of the first recipes I ever developed as a food blogger, along with my almond flour brownies and gluten-free blueberry muffins. I also can’t stress enough how incredibly EASY this recipe is to make. I was on TikTok last week and I watched a fellow food blogger make a homemade granola with like 12 ingredients and I was like… NO no, no need for that. So I finally carved out the time to share this 5-ingredient granola recipe with you!

I should also note that this is one of those recipes that is super easy to customize. Need to make it nut-free? Replace the chopped nuts with additional oats and unsalted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds (also, check out the nut-free section on my blog for more nut-free recipes!). Craving something more chocolate-y? Toss in some dark chocolate chunks once the granola has cooled. Or, if you need a sugar-free granola recipe, replace the maple syrup with your favorite sugar-free liquid sweetener – it’s that simple!

Happy homemade granola making, friends! And if you give this recipe a try, I’d really love it if you left a comment and a 5 STAR review on this post. Your support means the world to me!

Homemade granola on a baking sheet with a serving spoon.

What You’ll Need to Make this Homemade Granola Recipe

Peanut Butter: For a personalized touch, opt for almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or any nut or seed butter of your choice. To keep it health-conscious, go for a natural, unsweetened variety.

Melted Coconut Oil: Customize your granola with melted butter, olive oil, or any vegetable oil as alternatives to coconut oil.

Maple Syrup or Honey: Tailor the sweetness to your liking by choosing between agave nectar, brown rice syrup, or a sugar-free syrup for a low-sugar twist. The decision between maple syrup and honey is entirely based on your flavor preference.

Rolled Oats: For a gluten-free recipe, ensure the oats you buy are entirely gluten-free, like these ones from Bob’s Red Mill! Opt for old-fashioned oats to achieve a hearty and satisfying texture in your granola.

Chopped Unsalted Nuts: Make your granola uniquely yours by selecting nuts that align with your taste or dietary preferences. I used almonds and cashews in my granola, but really any unsalted nuts will do! For a nut-free alternative, consider using seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

Homemade granola served with yogurt and fresh raspberries in a bowl.

Is this Homemade Granola Recipe Healthy?

Yes, this homemade granola recipe is relatively healthy. It incorporates nutrient-rich ingredients like oats, nuts, and coconut oil, providing a good balance of essential fats, fiber, and protein. Additionally, the recipe allows for customization, making it adaptable to various dietary preferences and ensuring a wholesome breakfast or snack!

Homemade granola pouring out of a glass jar.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Mix It Up: Experiment with different nut and seed combinations to tailor the granola to your taste buds.
  • Watch Closely: Keep a close eye on the granola during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
  • More Clusters: For delightfully big granola chunks, press the mixture firmly onto the baking sheet before baking.
5 from 2 votes

5-Ingredient Healthy Homemade Granola Recipe

Elevate your breakfast with this super easy homemade granola recipe! It comes together with just 5-ingredients, one bowl, and in under 30 minutes. This healthy granola recipe is sweetened with maple syrup, and a delicious addition to yogurt parfaits, oatmeal, or smoothie bowls!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup peanut butter or any nut/seed butter
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 1 cup chopped unsalted nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans, and/or cashews)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, mix together the peanut butter, melted coconut oil, and maple syrup or honey.
  • Add in the rolled oats and chopped nuts, then mix to combine.
  • Transfer the granola mixture to your prepared baking sheet and spread the granola into an even layer across the baking sheet.
  • Bake the granola for 15 minutes, then remove it from the oven and use a spatula to flip and toss the granola. Put it back in the oven for an additional 5 minutes, then turn off the oven and leave the granola in the turned-off oven for 30 minutes.
  • Remove granola from the oven and let it cool completely before serving or storing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 200kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 14g | Sugar: 4g
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30 Minutes or Less

Healthy Apple Pie Protein Smoothie

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Apple pie protein smoothie in a glass with whipped cream and cinnamon on top.

We brought our toddler apple picking last weekend and I currently swimming in apples over here! Just SO many apples. We of course made my healthy gluten-free apple crisp as soon as we got home. I’ve also been making caramelized apples to go over yogurt and oatmeal bowls (so good OMG!). But we still have more apples than we know what to do with! *Enter the apple pie smoothie.*

It’s true what they say… an apple a day keeps the doctor away! This smoothie starts with one whole apple, plain yogurt, and a scoop of protein powder for extra protein. The end results is a creamy and perfectly sweet high protein smoothie that tastes just like apple pie. It’s nutritious, deeply satisfying, and guaranteed to keep you full until your next meal!

apple pie smoothie in a glass with whipped cream.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This healthy apple pie protein smoothie is the perfect blend of flavors for a cozy, yet refreshing treat. It’s packed with protein, naturally sweetened, and full of fall flavors that make you feel like you’re enjoying a slice of apple pie. Plus, it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and takes just a few minutes to whip up!

What You Need to Make This Healthy Apple Pie Smoothie

Apple: A fresh apple adds natural sweetness, fiber, and a classic apple pie flavor.

Plain Yogurt (Non-Dairy): This adds creaminess and a boost of protein while keeping the smoothie dairy-free. I recommend Cocojune organic plain unsweetened coconut yogurt, it’s perfectly thick and creamy! Though you can use regular yogurt if preferred.

Milk (Almond Milk): This helps to blend the smoothie and adds a touch of nuttiness from the almond milk. Any milk can work depending on your dietary needs.

Unflavored Protein Powder or Collagen Peptides: Boosts protein content to keep you full longer. Unflavored protein powder blends seamlessly with the apple pie flavors. I use and love the Garden of Live vegan protein powder in most of my protein smoothies!

Rolled Oats or Almond Butter: Adds creaminess and thickness to the smoothie. You can swap with almond butter for extra creaminess or keep it grain-free.

Cinnamon: The spice that gives this smoothie its signature apple pie flavor.

Honey or Maple Syrup (Optional): For a little extra sweetness if needed, especially if your apple isn’t very sweet.

apple pie smoothie with a straw.

Can I Prep This Apple Pie Smoothie Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prep the ingredients the night before by chopping the apple and measuring out the other ingredients. Store them in the fridge, then blend them together in the morning. If you want to make the smoothie ahead of time, blend it and store it in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good shake before drinking!

Tips and Tricks For the Best Smoothie

  • For a thicker, creamier smoothie either use a frozen apple instead of a fresh one, or add half of a frozen banana to the blender along with all of the other ingredients.
  • Blend your smoothie for longer to ensure a smooth texture without any lumps.
  • Add ice cubes if you like your smoothie extra cold, or freeze the almond milk into cubes for added creaminess!

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make it Vegan: Use non-dairy yogurt and plant-based protein powder to make this smoothie 100% vegan.
  • Grain-Free: Skip the oats and use almond butter for added creaminess and healthy fats.
  • Make it Nut-Free: Substitute almond milk with oat milk, and use oats instead of almond butter. It’s that easy!
Apple pie protein smoothie in a glass with whipped cream and cinnamon on top.
5 from 1 vote

Apple Pie Protein Smoothie

This healthy apple pie protein smoothie is just what you need for a delicious, protein-packed, fall-inspired treat. It’s made with 7 simple ingredients, is gluten-free, dairy-free, high in protein, and can easily be adapted to fit any dietary needs!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 serving

Equipment

  • blender

Ingredients

  • 1 medium apple cored and cut
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt (I used non-dairy coconut yogurt)
  • 1/4 cup milk (I used almond milk)
  • 1 scoop unflavored protein powder or collagen peptides
  • 1 tablespoon rolled oats or 1/2 tablespoon almond butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 tablespoon honey or maple syrup optional

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth, then enjoy immediately!

Nutrition

Serving: 1smoothie | Calories: 313kcal | Carbohydrates: 47g | Protein: 22.5g | Fat: 6g | Sugar: 28g
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