Sprouted Oat Protein Bars
🕒 Prep Time: 10 min | 🕒 Total Time: 38 min
🍽️ Servings: Depends on how you cut them up.
Ingredients:
½ cup vanilla protein powder*
2 cups sprouted oats
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp sea salt
½ ripe banana
½ cup pumpkin puree
½ cup milk alternative
¼ cup peanut or almond butter**
¼ cup agave nectar
½ tsp vanilla extract
⅓ cup + 1 tablespoon dark chocolate chips
1 tsp coconut oil
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Mix all dry ingredients in a mixing bowl. Set aside.
In another bowl, smash the banana and then mix in wet ingredients till fully incorporated.
Add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix thoroughly.
Press the mixture firmly into a parchment lined, 9x9 baking dish.
Bake for 25-28 minutes. The edges should start browning. Let cool completely.
Melt chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30 second intervals, stirring between intervals. Spread evenly over the cooled bars.
Chill in the fridge for at least 20 minutes then slice into bars.
*I prefer a vegan protein source and so use Orgain Protein Powder.
** I prefer to use PB Fit Peanut Butter but you could also use organic peanut or almond butter.
💚The Healthy Bit: Sprouted Oats 💚
Sprouted oats are whole-grain oat seeds that have been allowed to germinate (sprout) briefly before being harvested and dried, which can lead to increased nutrient bioavailability and easier digestion. They offer several potential benefits over rolled oats, including enhanced nutrient bioavailability, increased enzyme content, and improved digestibility.
Sprouting breaks down antinutrients like phytic acid, which can hinder the absorption of minerals like iron, zinc, and magnesium. This can be especially important for menopause-age women. The hormonal shifts associated with menopause, particularly the decline in estrogen, can impact the absorption and utilization of various nutrients, including iron, zinc, and magnesium.
The sprouting process can also increase the levels of antioxidants and GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in calming and inhibiting nerve cell activity in the central nervous system. Sprouting can also reduce the amount of starch in oats and reduce allergenicity.
This oatmeal blend is a nourishing way to start your day. It is packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber to keep you full and energized. Sprouted oats support digestion and nutrient absorption, while pumpkin, banana, and agave offer natural sweetness and steady energy. Warm spices and a touch of dark chocolate make it both comforting and functional—fueling your morning with intention and yumminess!
