Macadamia Nut Granola Protein Bars Recipe: A Nutty, Nourishing Snack!

Looking for a delicious, healthy snack that’s packed with protein and a rich, nutty flavour? Look no further! These Macadamia Nut Granola Protein Bars are the perfect combination of crunch, creaminess, and energy-boosting ingredients. Whether you’re running errands, hitting the gym, or just need a quick pick-me-up, these bars are an excellent choice for a wholesome snack.

Why Macadamia Nuts?

Macadamia nuts aren’t just delicious—they're also packed with essential nutrients. They are an excellent source of healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which are great for heart health. They're also rich in fibre, antioxidants, and important minerals like magnesium and manganese. With their buttery texture and mild, slightly sweet flavour, macadamia nuts are a fantastic addition to these granola protein bars, giving them a satisfying crunch and a nutritional boost!

Ingredients:

For the Bars:

• 1 cup of unsalted macadamia nuts, chopped
• 1 cup of rolled oats (preferably gluten-free)
• ½ cup of protein powder (whey or plant-based, your choice)
• ¼ cup of honey or maple syrup (for a vegan version)
• ¼ cup of almond butter (or peanut butter, depending on your preference)
• ½ cup of dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, or apricots are great choices)
• 2 tablespoons of chia seeds or flaxseeds (for extra fibre)
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 2-4 tablespoons of water (adjust depending on consistency)

Optional Add-ins:

• Dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs (for a chocolatey touch!)
• Coconut flakes for added texture
• Cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavour

Instructions:

1. Prep the Nuts and Oats:
   1. Start by roughly chopping the macadamia nuts into smaller pieces to make them easier to incorporate into the bars. If you prefer a finer texture, you can pulse them in a food processor for a few seconds.
   2. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped macadamia nuts, and protein powder.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
   1. In a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop, gently heat the almond butter and honey (or maple syrup) until melted and smooth. This will help everything bind together better.
   2. Once melted, stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. If you’re using any optional add-ins like cinnamon or chocolate chips, you can mix them in now.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   1. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated. You should have a dough-like consistency. If it feels too dry, add a tablespoon or two of water until the mixture sticks together well.
4. Add the Dried Fruit and Seeds:
   1. Gently fold in the dried fruit and chia or flaxseeds, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. Press and Set:
   1. Line a baking dish (8x8 or 9x9 inches works well) with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour the mixture into the dish and use a spatula or your hands to press it down evenly.
   2. To make sure your bars hold together, press them firmly!
6. Chill and Slice:
   1. Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are firm and set. This helps the flavours meld together and ensures the bars hold their shape when sliced.
   2. Once chilled, remove from the fridge, lift out of the dish using the parchment paper, and slice into bars or squares.

Storage:

These Macadamia Nut Granola Protein Bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week at room temperature or up to two weeks in the fridge. They also freeze well for up to 3 months—just wrap them individually in wax paper or plastic wrap for an easy grab-and-go snack!

Why You’ll Love These Protein Bars:

Nutrient-Rich – With a combination of healthy fats from macadamia nuts, fiber from oats and seeds, and protein from the protein powder, these bars offer a well-rounded, nourishing snack.

Customizable – Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences. You can add more dried fruit, use a different nut butter, or even sprinkle in some spices.

Perfect for Meal Prep – These bars are ideal for making in advance and keeping on hand for busy days. Whether you’re packing them in your bag for an afternoon snack or tossing one into your gym bag for a post-workout treat, they’re super convenient.

Satisfying and Delicious – The buttery crunch of macadamia nuts paired with the sweet honey or maple syrup makes these protein bars feel indulgent while still being wholesome. You won’t miss that mid-afternoon chocolate bar after munching on one of these!

Conclusion:

• These Macadamia Nut Granola Protein Bars are a delightful, nutritious, and easy-to-make snack that checks all the boxes. Whether you need an energy boost before a workout or a satisfying treat between meals, they’ll hit the spot every time. So, gather your ingredients, get baking, and enjoy these crunchy, protein-packed treats on the go!
• Have you tried making these protein bars or any other macadamia nut-based snacks? Let me know your favourite variations in the comments!