Chocolate Nut-Free Protein Bar Recipe (Gluten & Dairy Free)

Ready to fuel your body with an on-the-go breakfast or snack that's not only delicious but nut-free, gluten-free, and dairy-free? Then, you are in luck! This homemade double chocolate nut-free protein bar recipe made with rice cereal is the perfect go-to snack for people who don't want to compromise taste for diet restrictions. 

Not only is this recipe nutritious, easy to make, and budget-friendly but it's one that can be enjoyed by everyone in the family! 

In this article, we'll give you a step-by-step guide on how to make these delicious protein bars, as well as the nutritional breakdown of what you'll be eating.

So, read on to learn how to make this protein-packed treat that will satisfy your sweet-tooth without straining your wallet!

The gluten-free guide below is based on personal experience and research.  Always be sure to discuss any medical changes with your doctor for your personal medical needs. Additionally, this post contains affiliate links.  As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. My full disclosure isn’t that interesting, but you can find it here. 

Why You'll love this Delicious Double Chocolate No-Bake Nut-Free Protein Bar Recipe

Making your own protein bars that are gluten-free, nut-free, and dairy-free doesn’t have to be difficult. You'll absolutely love that:

• This easy recipe for protein bars without nuts is the perfect way to get a protein boost without any of the common allergens.
• These no-bake bars are made with cereal for a boost of iron and folate due to fortification. 
• These peanut free granola bars are also made without oats which is perfect for individuals with celiac disease who also have oats intolerance.

This is sure to become one of your favorite high protein dairy free snacks.

Is it cheaper to make your own protein bars?

Yes, it can be cheaper to make your own protein bars at home. On average, nut-free protein bars that are also gluten free and dairy free range from $2.08-$3.50 per bar.  

By contrast, this recipe will range from $1.25-$1.80 depending on ingredients used.

Looking for premade protein bars? Check out my review of 10 popular gluten free protein bars here.

What is a good binder for protein bars?

When making protein bars, it is important to use a good binder. A binder helps hold all the ingredients together and gives the protein bar shape. Without a binder, the bar would be crumbly and break apart easily.

In this recipe, we use sun butter and honey.  If you're looking to make these bars vegan there are some substitutions listed below in the ingredients list.

Equipment for Gluten Free Nut Free Cereal Bars

To make these easy gluten free cereal bars without oats, you’ll need just a few pieces of equipment:

• Measuring cups and spoons.
• Medium mixing bowl.
• Spatula.
• Parchment paper.
• An 8x8in pan

Ingredients to Make Homemade Protein Bars without Peanut Butter

It only takes 5 ingredients to make these super simple homemade bars–some of which you may already have on hand!

You should be able to find most of these ingredients at your local grocery store (you can use the instacart button in the recipe card to add them to your grocery delivery easily), but you can also find great deals on allergen free ingredients online through Thrive Market.

Learn more about why I love Thrive Market here, or you can snag a promotional link to receive up to 25% off your first order plus a free gift by clicking here!

To make this double chocolate nut-free protein bar recipe you’ll need:

• Cocoa Rice Cereal. There are a few great brands! I used Cocoa Pebbles, but if you want an organic option you can use One Degree Sprouted Rice Cacao Crisps! Find them on Amazon here. Want your bars to be less chocolatey? Check out the best brands of gluten free Rice Krispy cereal here.
• Sunflower butter.  There are quite a few brands available, but the SunButter brand is so smooth and creamy!
• Honey. See below for vegan substitution ideas.
• Protein powder. Choose the brand & flavor of your choice! We used Orgain Strawberries & Cream.  Looking for a good protein powder? I review all of my favorite protein brands in this post by taste and cost!
• Chocolate chips. I used Nestle's Toll House allergen-free semi-sweet morsels.  You can find them here. There are so many good allergy-friendly varieties.  Check out my favorite chocolate chip brands in this post.

Ingredient Substitutions for Vegan Protein Bars

To make these peanut free protein bars vegan, you'll need to swap out the honey. 

Here are some great ideas for swaps (using equal measurements to the honey):

• Maple Syrup
• Date Honey
• Agave

Additionally, you’ll need to double check the other ingredients (such as the protein powder and chocolate chips) to ensure that you are using vegan options!

How to make Nut Free No Bake Protein Bars

These bars could not be easier!

To prep, line your baking pan with parchment and set aside.

Then simply add all the cocoa rice cereal, sunflower seed butter, honey, and protein powder into a medium mixing bowl and mix until well combined. Then add ½ cup of the chocolate chips (reserving the rest for topping).

Transfer the entire mixture into the parchment lined baking pan spreading it across evenly. Top with the remaining chips and press down firmly until the mixture is uniform.

Chill in the fridge for 2 hours until firm. Do not skimp on the chilling time!

Remove the bars from the fridge, lift using the parchment, and cut into 8 even bars.

How to Store these No Bake Protein Bars

For those looking to make some homemade no-bake protein bars, it is important to consider the best way to store them for extended life.

An ideal way to store no bake protein bars is to wrap each bar separately in plastic wrap, wax paper or parchment paper before storing them all together in an airtight container in the freezer. Doing this double-layer of storage will prevent sticking and help maintain flavor and texture.

Additionally, this protein bar recipe will last a few months if stored correctly.

On the day you plan on consuming a bar, move it from the freezer to the refrigerator so that it can thaw out prior to eating--or just throw it into your lunch bag and it will be defrosted by lunch!

With proper techniques and even longer shelf-life, you can enjoy delicious no-bake protein bars any time you like without having to worry about them going bad too quickly!

Try this Recipe for No-Oat Gluten Free Granola Bars Today!

By following this easy Homemade Double Chocolate Nut-Free Protein Bar Recipe, anyone can make a healthy and delicious snack that is gluten free, dairy free, and full of protein. Perfect for those with dietary restrictions, the natural sweetness of the cocoa and honey makes this a satisfying treat for all. 

The crunch of the rice cereal gives it a texture not found in other protein bars. It's an enjoyable and convenient way to fuel your body and satisfy your sweet tooth. So, why not make your own protein bars and experience their great taste and health benefits? 

Give it a try and see for yourself!

Did you love this nut free energy bar recipe?

If so, be sure to rate the recipe below and share this to your gluten free snacks board on Pinterest!

Scroll down for the printable recipe for peanut free breakfast bars

Looking for some other delicious gluten free recipes?

Then check out these:

• The Best Easy No-Bake Gluten Free Treats
• Peanut Butter No Bake Protein Bars
• Banana Pancake Dippers
• Gluten Free Foods Kids Love

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