Name: Homemade Birthday Cake Protein Bars Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup vanilla protein powder (packed); ¼ cup coconut flour; Pinch of baking soda (optional); 2 tbsp confetti sprinkles; 3 tbsp unsweetened applesauce; 1 tbsp almond milk (or water); 1 tbsp butter-flavored coconut oil, melted; ¾ cup white chocolate chips (for coating); Optional: 1 tsp coconut oil (for thinning chocolate)

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Introduction

These Homemade Birthday Cake Protein Bars are a delightful, nutritious treat perfect for anyone craving a sweet snack with a protein boost. Brightened with colorful sprinkles and coated in creamy white chocolate, they offer a fun twist on traditional protein bars. Ready in just 20 minutes, they make an ideal homemade energy pick-me-up.

The image shows several rectangular cake bars with three layers placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a light brown cake mixed with colorful sprinkles inside, giving it a fun, textured look. The middle layer is thin and white, looking smooth, and the top layer is a thicker, creamy white frosting with more bright rainbow sprinkles scattered on top. One bar is tilted and leaning against another, showing the inside layers clearly. The whole scene is bright and clean. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

½ cup vanilla protein powder (packed)
¼ cup coconut flour
Pinch of baking soda (optional)
2 tbsp confetti sprinkles
3 tbsp unsweetened applesauce
1 tbsp almond milk (or water)
1 tbsp butter-flavored coconut oil, melted
¾ cup white chocolate chips (for coating)
Optional: 1 tsp coconut oil (for thinning chocolate)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together the vanilla protein powder, coconut flour, baking soda if using, and confetti sprinkles until evenly combined.
Step 2: Stir in the unsweetened applesauce, almond milk (or water), and melted butter-flavored coconut oil until a dough forms.
Step 3: Adjust the dough consistency as needed—if too soft, add more coconut flour one teaspoon at a time; if too dry, add more almond milk or water one teaspoon at a time.
Step 4: Shape the dough into a rectangular mound, then wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 5: Once firm, slice the chilled dough into 5 equal bars.
Step 6: Melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave using 20-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth. Add 1 teaspoon of coconut oil if a thinner, smoother coating is desired.
Step 7: Dip each bar into the melted white chocolate or drizzle the chocolate over the top, then place the bars on parchment paper to set.
Step 8: Let the chocolate coating harden completely before serving for the best texture and taste.

Tips & Variations

For a dairy-free version, use non-dairy white chocolate chips and ensure your protein powder is plant-based.
Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the wet ingredients for extra flavor depth.
Swap confetti sprinkles for mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts for different textures.
If you prefer a softer bar, reduce chill time slightly or add a bit more applesauce.

Storage

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To enjoy, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating. These bars also freeze well—wrap individually and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows several rectangular cake bars with a creamy white frosting on top, sprinkled with colorful small candy pieces. Each bar has two visible layers: the bottom layer is a light beige cake with tiny bits of colorful candy inside, while the top layer is smooth white frosting. The bars are placed on a white marbled surface, and one bar is slightly tilted, resting against another. The candies on the frosting add a bright contrast in red, yellow, blue, and orange colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different protein powder?

Yes, you can substitute any vanilla or unflavored protein powder, but be aware that the texture and flavor might vary slightly depending on the brand and type.

What can I use instead of coconut flour?

Coconut flour is absorbent and unique, so substitutions can be tricky. Almond flour can be tried, but you may need to adjust liquid amounts. It’s best to use coconut flour for the intended texture.