Hey there, lemon lovers! Have you ever craved the tangy sweetness of lemon bars but hesitated because of sugar and calories? Well, fret no more! I’m Robert Kline, and I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Protein Lemon Bars that are not only incredibly delicious but also packed with protein and low in sugar.
These bars are a result of my numerous experiments in the kitchen to create a guilt-free version of a classic treat. They’re bursting with fresh lemon flavor, boast a perfectly crumbly crust, and offer a creamy, custard-like filling that will have you hooked from the first bite.
Why You’ll Love These Protein Lemon Bars
These bars are not your average lemon bars. They are:
- High in Protein: Each bar boasts an impressive 15 grams of protein, making them a satisfying and nutritious snack or dessert.
- Low in Sugar: With only 1 gram of sugar per serving, you can indulge in these tangy treats without the sugar rush.
- Gluten-Free and Easily Dairy-Free: These bars cater to various dietary needs.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be enjoying these protein-packed lemon bars in no time.
Ready to embark on a culinary adventure that’s both delicious and good for you? Let’s get started!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients for these irresistible Protein Lemon Bars:
For the Crust:
- Protein Powder: Opt for unflavored or vanilla whey blend, soy isolate, or even a vegan protein blend for a dairy-free version.
- Almond Flour: Almond flour creates a wonderfully crumbly crust, but you can substitute it with gluten-free baking flour if needed.
- Baking Soda and Salt: These ingredients work their magic to create the perfect texture and enhance the flavors.
- Buttery Spread: Vegan buttery spread or unsalted butter will add richness and bind the crust beautifully.
For the Filling:
- Protein Powder: The same type of protein powder you used for the crust will work wonders here, adding a protein punch to the creamy filling.
- Sweetener: I recommend a natural, calorie-free sweetener like Stevia. Powdered sugar, erythritol, or monk fruit are great alternatives.
- Greek Yogurt: Nonfat plain Greek yogurt lends a creamy texture, but you can easily swap it with dairy-free yogurt for a dairy-free alternative.
- Eggs: Eggs provide structure and richness to the filling.
- Lemon Juice and Zest: The stars of the show! Fresh lemon juice and zest deliver a burst of tangy, citrusy goodness.
- Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F. In a bowl, combine all the crust ingredients using a fork until a crumbly mixture forms. Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper and press the crust mixture evenly onto the bottom. Bake for 5 minutes.
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Create the Zesty Filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together the filling ingredients until frothy. Gently mix in the yogurt, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
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Assemble and Bake: Pour the luscious lemon filling over the pre-baked crust. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the center is just set.
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Chill and Serve: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool for 10-15 minutes. For the best texture and flavor, chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least an hour or, even better, overnight.
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Indulge and Enjoy: Once chilled, sprinkle the bars with powdered sweetener or sugar (if desired) and cut them into nine equal squares.
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Tips and Substitutions:
- Flour Power: If you’re using gluten-free baking flour instead of almond flour, you might need an extra tablespoon of buttery spread or butter to achieve that perfect crumbly texture.
- Sweetener Options: Feel free to experiment with different sweeteners according to your preference. Remember to adjust the quantity based on the sweetness level of your chosen sweetener.
- Get Creative: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a handful of blueberries or raspberries to the filling before baking.
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Robert Kline Art: Your Source for Creative Inspiration
These Protein Lemon Bars are just a glimpse into the world of delicious and healthy recipes that await you on “Robert Kline Art.” We’re passionate about sharing creative DIY projects, handmade crafts, and unique gift ideas.
So, roll up your sleeves, preheat those ovens, and treat yourself to these guilt-free Protein Lemon Bars. Don’t forget to share your culinary masterpieces and tag us on social media – we can’t wait to see your creations!