Name: Chocolate Workout Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed); 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 cup nut butter of choice (or oil); 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (or honey, agave, or date syrup); 3 tbsp cocoa powder; 2/3 cup oat flour (or almond flour, or 1 cup rolled oats); 1/2 cup chocolate chips; as needed optional chocolate coating

Let’s be honest: who doesn’t love chocolate? Now, what if I told you that you could enjoy it guilt-free, packed with nutrients, and perfect for fueling your workouts? Enter the Chocolate Workout Bars. These bars are not only delicious but also loaded with wholesome ingredients that will keep you energized and satisfied. Whether you’re heading to the gym or need a quick snack on the go, these bars are a fantastic option.

Why Chocolate Workout Bars is Worth Your Time

These Chocolate Workout Bars are a blend of taste and nutrition. With black beans as the base ingredient, they offer a fantastic source of fiber and protein while keeping the carbohydrate count low. The combination of nut butter and pure maple syrup provides healthy fats and natural sweetness, making these bars a perfect post-workout treat or a midday snack. Plus, they’re so easy to make that you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried them sooner!

What to Buy

1 can black beans: The star ingredient, providing protein and fiber.
1/4 tsp salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
1/4 cup nut butter of choice or oil: Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
1/2 cup pure maple syrup, honey, agave, or date syrup: Natural sweetener to bind the bars.
3 tbsp cocoa powder: For that rich chocolate flavor.
2/3 cup oat flour or almond flour, or 1 cup rolled oats: The base of the bars providing texture and bulk.
1/2 cup chocolate chips: Because who can resist extra chocolate?
Optional chocolate coating: For those who want an extra indulgent treat.

Prep & Cook Tools

Food processor: To blend the black beans and create a smooth mixture.
Mixing bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
Spatula: To fold in the chocolate chips and transfer the batter.
Baking dish: A square or rectangular dish to shape the bars.

Build Chocolate Workout Bars Step by Step

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the bars will bake evenly once you’re ready to pop them in.

2. Prepare the Black Beans

Drain and rinse the can of black beans thoroughly. This step is crucial to remove excess sodium and improve flavor.

3. Blend the Ingredients

In a food processor, combine the black beans, salt, nut butter, and maple syrup. Blend until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. You may need to scrape down the sides a couple of times to ensure everything is well incorporated.

4. Mix in Dry Ingredients

Transfer the blended mixture to a mixing bowl. Add the cocoa powder and oat flour (or almond flour). Stir until combined. If you’re using rolled oats, fold them in gently for added texture.

5. Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

6. Bake the Bars

Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Let Them Cool

Allow the bars to cool in the baking dish for about 10 minutes. Once slightly cooled, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting.

How to Make It Lighter

Use natural sweeteners: Opt for less syrup or replace it with mashed bananas for natural sweetness.
Substitute almond flour with oat flour to lower fat content while still keeping it gluten-free.
Reduce chocolate chips: Cut down on the amount of chocolate chips for fewer calories.
Use light nut butter or substitute with unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat content.

Behind the Recipe

These Chocolate Workout Bars were inspired by the need for a convenient, nutritious snack that could sustain energy levels during workouts. The use of black beans not only offers a unique twist but also enhances the nutritional profile, providing a great source of plant-based protein. The combination of chocolate and nut butter makes these bars irresistible, ensuring that you’ll never feel deprived when trying to maintain a healthy diet.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

These bars store beautifully! Once completely cooled, cut them into squares or rectangles and store them in an airtight container. They can last up to a week in the fridge or can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to layer parchment paper between the bars if stacking them to prevent sticking.

Ask & Learn

Can I substitute black beans with another type of bean?

Yes, you can use other beans like chickpeas or kidney beans, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

What can I use instead of maple syrup?

You can replace maple syrup with honey, agave, or even date syrup, depending on your preference for sweetness and dietary needs.

Are these bars gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free oats or almond flour, these bars will be gluten-free. Always check the labels to ensure the products are certified gluten-free.

Can I add other ingredients like nuts or seeds?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Chocolate Workout Bars by adding nuts, seeds, or even dried fruits for a different texture and additional nutrients.

Cook This Next

See You at the Table

These Chocolate Workout Bars are more than just a snack; they are a delightful way to fuel your body with the nutrients it needs while indulging your taste buds with rich chocolate goodness. Perfect for meal prep, a post-workout boost, or even an afternoon pick-me-up, you’ll find yourself reaching for these bars time and time again. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s get baking! You won’t regret it!