As the holiday season approaches, my kitchen becomes a hive of activity, filled with the delightful scents of spices and sweetness. It reminds me of cozy gatherings and laughter shared over delicious treats. This year, I wanted to add a unique twist to my traditional holiday baking, and that’s when I stumbled upon the idea of Christmas Protein Sugar Cookie Bars. Imagine indulgent, soft bars infused with the rich flavors of vanilla and a touch of coziness from almond flour—perfect for holiday celebrations yet remarkably healthy!
These easy-to-make bars blend the joy of sugar cookie traditions with the nutritional boost of protein, making them a guilt-free treat to share with family and friends. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a festive dessert that impresses but doesn’t stress. Whether you’re looking for a post-workout snack or a holiday party favorite, these protein sugar cookie bars are sure to satisfy cravings while keeping you energized. Let’s dive into this festive recipe that’s as delightful to eat as it is to share!
Why are Christmas Protein Sugar Cookie Bars special?
Decadent yet Nutritious: These bars blend the rich flavors of traditional sugar cookies with a protein boost, allowing you to indulge guilt-free.
Festive Flavor: Infused with warm vanilla and almond notes, these bars evoke the cozy essence of the holiday season.
Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal time, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing treat ready in no time.
Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect for holiday gatherings, as a post-workout snack, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Healthy Twist: Using almond flour and monk fruit makes them a fantastic alternative to typical sugary treats.
Christmas Protein Sugar Cookie Bars Ingredients
For the Bars
- 2 cups almond flour – a gluten-free base that adds a nutty flavor and texture.
- 30g organic vanilla protein powder – enhances the nutritional value with a delightful vanilla taste.
- 1/3 cup monk fruit – a natural sweetener that keeps these bars guilt-free while delivering sweetness.
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder – ensures a lovely rise and soft texture in your bars.
- 1/4 tsp salt – balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 4 tbsp organic coconut oil (softened) – adds healthy fats and moisture to the bars.
- 4 tbsp Greek yogurt (plain, nonfat) – provides creaminess and contributes to the protein content.
- 2 organic eggs – binds the ingredients together, creating a rich texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – infuses a warm vanilla aroma, enhancing the festive flavor.
For the Frosting
- 4 oz. organic cream cheese (softened) – gives the frosting a rich and creamy base.
- 15g organic vanilla protein – boosts the protein content of the frosting, making it even more delightful.
- Sprinkle of monk fruit sweetener – sweetens the frosting perfectly without added sugar.
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract – adds a hint of vanilla to the frosting, matching the bars’ flavor.
- 2-3 tsp unsweetened almond milk – helps achieve the desired consistency for spreading.
How to Make Christmas Protein Sugar Cookie Bars
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Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare a square baking dish by lining it with parchment paper. This ensures an easy release and makes cutting the bars a breeze.
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Whisk together your dry ingredients: almond flour, protein powder, monk fruit, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl. Combine well until everything is evenly distributed and the mixture is slightly fluffy.
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Mix in the wet ingredients: add the eggs, softened coconut oil, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract. Stir until the batter is smooth and thick, with a lovely blend of colors and textures coming together.
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Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top for an even bake. Pop it in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the center is puffed up and edges are golden brown. Allow to cool completely.
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Prepare your frosting by combining the softened cream cheese, protein powder, vanilla extract, and almond milk in a small bowl. Mix until creamy and spreadable, adjusting the almond milk for your preferred consistency. Optionally, mix in a little monk fruit sweetener to enhance sweetness.
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Frost the cooled bars with your delightful frosting. Once covered, slice them into 16 squares for perfect bite-sized treats. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set before serving.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of crushed nuts for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Christmas Protein Sugar Cookie Bars?
These delightful bars are perfect for any holiday gathering, bringing warmth and sweet nostalgia to your table.
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Festive Fruit Salad: A mix of bright seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast and vibrant colors to your dessert spread.
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Spiced Herbal Tea: The warmth of spiced tea complements the sweet vanilla notes of the bars, creating a cozy experience.
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Creamy Hot Cocoa: Rich and chocolatey hot cocoa brings a comforting warmth that pairs beautifully with these protein-packed treats.
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Nuts and Dried Fruits: A crunchy mix provides texture alongside the soft bars, balancing flavors with hearty goodness in every bite.
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Vanilla Yogurt Dip: A smooth dip enhances the flavors of the bars and adds a creamy element that feels indulgent yet light.
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Gingerbread Cookies: These classic treats evoke holiday cheer, and their spices harmonize fabulously with the festive flavor of the bars.
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Mulled Wine: The warm spices and fruity notes of mulled wine create an elegant pairing that feels perfect for festive celebrations.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of dark chocolate over the bars can elevate their sweetness, giving an extra layer of joy to every bite.
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Peppermint Bark: The refreshing minty crunch contrasts well with the richness of the bars, providing a delightful holiday touch.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Protein Sugar Cookie Bars are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the bars up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the batter and spreading it in the baking dish without baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap in the fridge to keep it fresh. You can also make the frosting ahead of time; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, just take the batter out, bake it as directed, and once cooled, frost your bars. This way, you’ll have delicious treats ready with minimal last-minute effort!
Christmas Protein Sugar Cookie Bars Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your Christmas Protein Sugar Cookie Bars with these fun and tasty swaps!
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Nut-Free: Substitute almond flour with oat flour or sunflower seed flour for a nut-free version that’s just as delightful.
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Sweetener Swap: Use agave syrup or honey instead of monk fruit for a sweeter, more traditional flavor profile. Just remember to adjust the dry ingredients accordingly!
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Chocolatey Delight: Mix in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips before baking to add a rich, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate flavor that complements the sweetness.
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Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of pumpkin spice or cinnamon to the batter for a warm, festive touch that enhances the holiday spirit.
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Fruity Twist: Top your frosting with fresh berries or sliced bananas for a refreshing burst of flavor, bringing a delightful contrast to the sweet bars.
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Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water for each egg) and use coconut yogurt for a vegan-friendly treat everyone can enjoy.
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Add Some Crunch: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or granola for added texture and a delightful crunch that brings each bite to life.
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Gluten-Free Flour Mix: For those who need strict gluten-free options, use a gluten-free flour blend—adjust the liquid slightly to keep the consistency right.
Each variation offers a delightful new experience, inviting you to savor the holiday season in your own unique way!
Tips for the Best Christmas Protein Sugar Cookie Bars
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Proper Measurements: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for protein powder, to ensure the perfect texture in your bars.
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Ingredient Temp: Make sure your coconut oil and cream cheese are softened at room temperature; this helps create a smooth batter and frosting.
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Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your bars while they bake. Overbaking can dry them out, so look for that golden edge and a puffed center!
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Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting for the best results. A warm bar can cause the frosting to melt and slide off.
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Customize Your Frosting: Feel free to mix in your favorite flavored protein powders or add cocoa powder for a chocolate version of these Christmas Protein Sugar Cookie Bars!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Protein Sugar Cookie Bars
Room Temperature: Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and flavor.
Fridge: For longer storage, place the bars in the fridge, where they can last for up to a week. Just make sure they are covered to prevent drying out.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing their delicious taste.
Reheating: If you prefer them warm, simply microwave a frozen bar for 15-30 seconds or until heated through. Enjoy the guilt-free indulgence of Christmas Protein Sugar Cookie Bars!
Christmas Protein Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best almond flour?
Absolutely! When selecting almond flour, look for finely ground versions without any added ingredients. A light color indicates freshness. Avoid bags with dark spots, as they can signal rancidity.
How should I store these bars?
For room temperature storage, keep the bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure to cover them well to keep that delightful flavor intact!
Can I freeze Christmas Protein Sugar Cookie Bars?
Very! To freeze, wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring all air is removed to prevent freezer burn. They’ll be good for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, just microwave a frozen bar for 15-30 seconds until warmed through.
What can I do if my frosting is too thick?
If your frosting turns out too thick, don’t fret! Simply add an additional teaspoon of unsweetened almond milk and mix well until you reach your desired consistency. This way, you’ll have the perfect spreading frosting!
Are these bars suitable for people with nut allergies?
Unfortunately, these bars contain almond flour, which is a no-go for those with nut allergies. If you’re looking for a nut-free alternative, consider using oat flour instead, but keep in mind that this may change the texture slightly.
Can I substitute monk fruit with another sweetener?
Yes, you can certainly substitute monk fruit with another sweetener! Options like erythritol or stevia can work as alternatives. Just make sure to adjust the amount according to the sweetness level, as some are sweeter than others. Enjoy experimenting!
Delicious Christmas Protein Sugar Cookie Bars You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare a square baking dish by lining it with parchment paper.
- Whisk together your dry ingredients: almond flour, protein powder, monk fruit, baking powder, and salt.
- Mix in the wet ingredients: add the eggs, softened coconut oil, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract.
- Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Prepare your frosting by combining the softened cream cheese, protein powder, vanilla extract, and almond milk.
- Frost the cooled bars and slice them into 16 squares. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.