I’ve been enjoying reading over at Anna Sward’s ProteinPow – the girl who created a whole cookbook of recipes using protein powder, who makes Triple Chocolate Layer Protein Cakes and Lemon Meringue Protein Pie, where basically every element includes a form of powdered protein. I know how crazy difficult certain protein powders can be to bake with (gummy! dry!) so I am certainly inspired.

Although I’m happy to consume my powder in a simple shake or stirred through yogurt, sometimes a more decadent bar is in order – to stop me eying up those CLIF Builders Bars at the health food aisle of the supermarket…

Matcha Green Tea Protein Bars
Inspired by ProteinPow’s Strawberry Protein Bars
Makes 6 – 8 small bars

Ingredients
1 – 2 Tbsp matcha (green tea powder), depending on preferred taste
3 tbsp coconut flour
2 scoops of whey protein powder (I like Whey Gourmet Naturalle) OR Pumpkin Seed Protein powder (I used half of each)
1/4 cup milk (almond or regular)
1 tbsp coconut oil

Chocolate Topping
2 Tbsp coconut oil
1 Tbsp dark chocolate, chopped
1 Tbsp dark cocoa powder
1 x 30g scoop whey protein powder, chocolate
cacao nibs

In a food processor, blend together matcha powder, coconut flour, protein powder, milk and coconut oil until it comes togeher. Add a little more coconut flour if mixture is too sticky. Tip mixture out onto baking paper and, using wet hands, press into a rectangular block. Refrigerate until firm. Using a warm, sharp knife slice the block into 6 or 8 bars. Place in freezer until firm.

Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, warm coconut oil and chocolate until melted. Remove from the heat and whisk in the cocoa and chocolate protein powder. While topping is still warm, dip the cold bars in, turning all over until bar is completely covered. Repeat with remaining bars and top with cacao nibs. Store in the fridge or freezer and enjoy as a mid-afternoon snack.