Why You’ll Love Chocolate Workout Bars Recipe
-
No-Bake Convenience: No oven required; simply blend, freeze, and enjoy.
-
Nutrient-Dense: Packed with protein and fiber from black beans and nut butter.
-
Diet-Friendly: Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and can be made nut-free.
-
Customizable: Easily adaptable with different nut butters, sweeteners, or add-ins.
-
Perfect Texture: Fudgy and rich, satisfying chocolate cravings healthily.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 can black beans (drained and rinsed)
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup nut butter of choice or oil
1/2 cup pure maple syrup, honey, agave, or date syrup
3 tbsp cocoa powder
2/3 cup oat flour or almond flour, or 1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup chocolate chips (not optional)
Optional chocolate coating (see directions)
Directions
-
Line an 8-inch pan with parchment or wax paper.
-
Drain and rinse the black beans thoroughly.
-
In a food processor, blend all ingredients except the chocolate chips until smooth.
-
Stir in the chocolate chips.
-
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
-
Freeze until set.
For the optional chocolate coating:
-
Chill bars for at least 30 minutes.
-
Melt 1/2 cup chocolate chips with 2 tsp oil to form a thin sauce, or
-
Whisk together 1/4 cup cocoa powder, 2 tbsp melted coconut oil, and 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or agave.
-
Spread over the bars and freeze to set the chocolate.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes (plus freezing time)
Yield: 8–12 bars
Variations
-
Nut-Free: Use sunbutter, wow butter, or coconut butter instead of nut butter.
-
Flavor Twists: Add 1/2 tsp instant coffee or pure vanilla extract for a different flavor profile.
-
Chip Choices: Swap chocolate chips with peanut butter chips or white chocolate chips.
Storage/Reheating
-
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
-
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months.
-
Serving: No reheating necessary; enjoy straight from the fridge or after a brief thaw from the freezer.
FAQs
How do I make these bars nut-free?
Replace the nut butter with sunbutter, wow butter, or coconut butter.
Can I use a blender instead of a food processor?
Yes, but you may need to stir frequently to ensure even blending.
Are these bars suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, just use certified gluten-free oats or oat flour.
What can I use instead of black beans?
You can try other beans, though texture and color may vary.
How long do these bars last in the freezer?
They keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Can I add protein powder to this recipe?
Yes, substitute part of the flour with your preferred protein powder.
Is the chocolate coating necessary?
It’s optional—great for an extra layer of indulgence, but not required.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, just use a larger pan and adjust the setting time as needed.
Are these bars kid-friendly?
Yes, they’re a healthy, sweet snack that kids tend to enjoy.
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Yes, honey, agave, or date syrup all work as alternatives.
Conclusion
Chocolate Workout Bars are an easy, satisfying snack that checks all the boxes for health-conscious chocolate lovers. They’re quick to make, freezer-friendly, and packed with plant-based nutrients. Whether you need a post-gym boost or a healthy dessert, these bars are a perfect fit.
Would you like me to turn this into a downloadable format or a blog post draft?
Chocolate Workout Bars
5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star
No reviews
Indulge in these fudgy, no-bake Chocolate Workout Bars that are packed with protein and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for a healthy snack or breakfast, they’re vegan, gluten-free, and taste like a chocolate brownie!
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: no-bake
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 8–12 bars
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup nut butter of choice or oil
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup, honey, agave, or date syrup
- 3 tbsp cocoa powder
- 2/3 cup oat flour or almond flour, or 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (not optional)
- Optional Chocolate Coating:
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips with 2 tsp oil
OR - 1/4 cup cocoa powder, 2 tbsp melted coconut oil, and 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or agave
Instructions
- Line an 8-inch pan with parchment or wax paper.
- In a food processor, blend all ingredients except the chocolate chips until smooth.
- Stir in the chocolate chips.
- Spread the mixture into the prepared pan and freeze to set.
- For the optional chocolate coating, chill the bars for at least 30 minutes.
- Melt the chocolate chips with oil, or whisk together cocoa powder, melted coconut oil, and sweetener to make the sauce.
- Spread the sauce over the bars and freeze again to set the chocolate.
Notes
- Use sunbutter, wow butter, or coconut butter for a nut-free version.
- Enhance flavor with 1/2 tsp of instant coffee or vanilla extract.
- Swap in peanut butter or white chocolate chips for a twist.