Try making these quick and easy breakfast bars for a quick pick-me up in the mid morning or early afternoon. These easy-to-make protein-packed energy boosting snacks take only 5-10 minutes to prepare and 2 hours to freeze before they are ready to be gobbled up. The peanut or almost butter and oats provide lasting stamina, and the coffee and chocolate add caffeine for a quick energy boost. Try adding MCT oil, maca powder or chia seeds for extra protein.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quick oats ( I used regular oats and pulsed them in my food processor for 10 seconds
• 1/2 Cup creamy or crunchy peanut butter or almond butter
• 3 Tbs. honey
• 2 Tbs. instant espresso powder
• 2 Tbs. cocoa powder
• 2 Tbs. chocolate chips or cocoa nibs
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1 Tbs. shredded coconut (optional)

Directions:

• Cut sheet of parchment paper to fit on the bottom of an 8-inch square pan with edges hanging over the sides. Set aside
• In large bowl, combine all the ingredients, except the coconut ,and mix well.
• Press firmly into the bottom of the pan and freeze for 2 hours.
• Using the outer edges of the parchment paper, lift bars out of pan. Cut into squares. Serve immediately or pack into individual snack-sized bags and freeze for easy snacking.

Per Bar: Roughly 250 cal., 8 grams protein, 14 grams total fat (3-4 g. sat fat), 26 grams carbs, Omg chol., 190 mg. sodium, 4 grams fiber, 11 grams sugar