Oat Protein Breakfast Bars

Contrary to popular belief there is a thing as too much protein. In fact the amount most people need is quite small. So when foods have protein added to them it's a little bit silly. When we were in the shop the other day we walked past oats with added protein. Really? Oats are already a great source of protein naturally and more than that they have wonderful slow release energy which is fantastic for these early January mornings. Of course I'm not a nutritionist so speak to your doctor about any changes to diet and lifestyle. 

I made these bars because mornings can be pretty tough. I have never been a morning person. My husband has a photograph of me and Edith sitting on the sofa with the same grumpy face. It's hilarious. Poor guy. He has to put up with a lot of my morning grump! I've never been a breakfast person so something that can be prepared in advance is wonderful and something that Edith will eat too. I thought about flapjacks but they can be too sweet sometimes with tons of added sugar. Not something I want to be pumping into my toddler.

These bars are the answer. 4 simple ingredients, well 5 if you add a little dark chocolate. All of the ingredients are affordable and easy to find so no messing around. These don't have to just be for breakfast, they would make a great lunchbox treat or snack. There's really no excuse to not give them a go.

Oat Protein Breakfast Bars

 - Makes 12 ( 30p per serving) - 

280g no added sugar peanut butter

300g porridge oats

3 tbsp honey

200ml coconut milk

35g 70% dark chocolate

Pour the coconut milk into a bowl and whisk with an electric whisk until thickened slightly.

Add the honey and peanut butter and mix well with a wooden spoon.

Add the oats to the bowl and mix until the oats are well coated.

Line a 33cm baking tray with cling film and then add a layer of baking parchment. 

Spoon the mixture into the tray and flatten down with a spoon. Take another sheet of baking paper and place on top. Smooth down the mixture with your hands until even and refrigerate for at least 3 hours. 

Once set drizzle over the melted chocolate. Leave the chocolate to set.

Store in the fridge in a airtight container, they will keep for up to a week if they hang around that long that is.

Will you be giving these a go?