πŸ’ͺ Homemade Gluten-Free Protein Bars: Fuel Your Day Without the Bloat

 

πŸ’ͺ Homemade Gluten-Free Protein Bars: Fuel Your Day 

Without the Bloat

Last updated: [June 2025]
By: Heal & Glow with Gluten Free Foods

🌱 Why I Started Making My Own Gluten-Free Protein Bars

Before I discovered my gluten intolerance, I often grabbed protein bars as a "healthy" snack. But I’d always feel bloated, foggy, or even itchy afterward. Sound familiar?

Many store-bought bars—even the “healthy” ones—are packed with gluten, hidden sugars, and preservatives. So, I began experimenting with homemade, gluten-free protein bars that are simple, clean, and actually make me feel good.

These bars are now my go-to for:

  • Pre/post-workout fuel

  • Mid-day energy boosts

  • Travel snacks

  • Kid-friendly lunchbox treats

πŸ’‘ What to Look for in a Gluten-Free Protein Bar

Whether you're buying or making them, here's what matters:

  • Certified gluten-free oats or flour

  • Clean protein sources like nut butters, seeds, or plant protein

  • Natural sweeteners (dates, honey, jaggery, maple syrup)

  • No refined flours, wheat, or barley malt extract

  • No artificial flavors or fillers


πŸ₯œ My Favorite Gluten-Free Protein Bar Recipe (No Bake!)

🍫 Chocolate Almond Energy Bars

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats

  • ½ cup almond butter

  • ½ cup dates (soaked for 10 mins)

  • 2 tbsp cocoa powder

  • 2 tbsp chia seeds

  • 2 scoops plant-based protein powder (optional)

  • Pinch of salt

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 2 tbsp dark chocolate chips (gluten-free)

Instructions:

  1. Blend soaked dates in a food processor until sticky.

  2. Add all other ingredients and pulse until well combined.

  3. Press mixture into a lined tray.

  4. Refrigerate for 2–3 hours, then cut into bars.

  5. Store in fridge for up to 7 days!

Tips:
πŸ‘‰ Add chopped almonds, walnuts, or dried cranberries for crunch.
πŸ‘‰ You can replace almond butter with peanut butter or sunflower seed butter.


πŸ›’ Store-Bought Gluten-Free Protein Bars I Trust

If you're in a hurry, here are my go-to brands that make certified GF bars:

  • RXBAR (select flavors) – Clean label, egg white protein

  • GoMacro Bars – Vegan, gluten-free, and low-FODMAP options

  • LΓ„RABAR – Made with just a few ingredients

  • No Cow Bars – High in plant protein, low sugar

  • KIND Protein Bars (gluten-free labeled) – Great taste and texture

πŸ“¦ Pro Tip: You can find these at Whole Foods, Amazon, Thrive Market, Target, and sometimes even at local pharmacies.


🧠 Why Protein Bars Are Great on a Gluten-Free Diet

  • Help meet protein needs (especially if vegetarian/vegan)

  • Keep blood sugar stable

  • Prevent snack cravings

  • Easy to digest (if made with whole, clean ingredients)

  • Perfect grab-and-go for work, gym, or travel

πŸ“Œ Pin or Save This for Later

Feel like you’re always hungry or tired on a gluten-free diet? Try adding a homemade protein bar to your routine—it changed my energy levels and snacking habits for good.

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