These Paleo Maple Sea Salt Protein Bars are a copycat version of the popular store bought bar. They are made with just a few simple, real ingredients. Gluten free, egg free, dairy free, and so easy to make!
It's been a while since I've shared a copycat recipe for these store bought bars. I have Chocolate Sea Salt, Pumpkin, Apple Cinnamon Raisin and SunButter (Peanut Butter) already. Maple is definitely a favorite of mine and I know of others. I have gotten requests to recreate it, but until now I have had a hard time finding a good maple flavoring (don't but it on Amazon, that one has soy). I finally found one and the result is just as good as expected.
Egg Whites vs Collagen
In the original bar, egg whites are used for the protein source. There is nothing wrong with egg whites, but why not use something with added health benefits like collagen? It's still tasteless and adds protein, but with the additional health benefits like being great for your skin, hair and joints. I used collagen powder that has only one ingredient, no sweeteners or fillers added. Using collagen also makes them egg free which is great for anyone working around an allergy or sensitivity.
Baked or No-Bake
These are easily a no-bake snack, just blend and refrigerate. But I've had people comment on the other flavors how they are too sticky for on the go, so I tried baking them and was amazed at the flavor and texture. They hold together better, and chewy and soft and so good! I didn't get any pictures of what they look like, but I highly recommend it. I wrote the instructions in the notes of the recipe.
If you like the original then I know you will love this copycat version. Easy to make and so delicious!
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Paleo Maple Sea Salt Protein Bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups (224g) raw pecans*
- 1 cup (60g) pitted dates
- 1 heaping cup (95g) collagen powder
- 2 ½ tablespoons maple flavor
- ¾ teaspoon large grain salt**
- water if needed, 2-3 tablespoons
Instructions
- Soak the dates in warm water for 5 minutes if needed. This isn't necessary, but if your dates are older then it's a good idea. Drain before using.
- Combine the pecans, dates, collagen, and maple flavoring in a food processor or high powered blender. Blend until mixed. Stop and scrape down the sides as needed. Add a little water if needed, but make sure to blend good first. Adding too much water will make them sticky. Press into pan and sprinkle the salt on top. Place in the fridge to chill. Cut into 10 bars, 5x2.
Notes:
Nutrition Information
MS says
Would this work with the egg white protein? Although it is a great supplement, and love that you use it in a recipe, collagen is an incomplete protein so I don’t count it towards total protein intake, so I’d like to use something else.
Jessica DeMay says
Hi- yeah, of course that will work. Also, here is a good article why you can count collagen into your protein intake. Basically, if you're consuming meat and/or eggs throughout the day then you're getting the amino acids you need to digest the collagen protein. https://nakednutrition.com/blogs/protein/collagen-protein-vs-whey-protein
Kristen Tivadar says
Why maple flavor? Could you just use maple
Syrup instead??
Jessica DeMay says
Hi! Because maple flavor is a lot stronger whereas maple syrup is very mild. Just a little flavoring is needed for that strong maple taste.
Cari says
Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Jessica DeMay says
Of course!
Denise says
Oh My goodness! I made these today using maple syrup instead of flavoring because that is what I had on hand and they are delicious! My collagen has vanilla and coconut in it because I was trying to use ingredients I already had. They are wonderful! I will be making these again!
Jessica DeMay says
Thanks, Denise! I'm so glad you like them and thanks for the great feedback!
Allison says
I just saw the photo above where you have these listed as Whole 30. The maple flavoring contains sugar syrup, so these are not Whole 30. Pretty sure maple syrup isn’t either.
Jessica DeMay says
Hi Allison- the one I listed, at the time, didn't have sugar. Maybe they changed their formula. I'm very careful to not mislabel recipes. 🙂
Allison says
I was so excited to try this until I saw that the maple flavoring contains sugar syrup, so this isn’t actually paleo. I’m going to give this a try with maple water or just a bit of maple syrup. Thanks for the recipe!
Jessica DeMay says
Hope you love them!
Julie says
I noticed that the maple flavoring contain sugar syrup. Is that factored in to your 10g of sugar?
Kassie says
These are delicious! If you bake them, do they still need to be refrigerated? Thank you for a great recipe!
Jessica DeMay says
Thanks, Kassie! They should be good at room temperature for 5-7 days if baked. Then place them in the fridge if longer. Thanks for trying them!
Kimberly says
Do you think it would still work if real maple syrup was used instead of the flavoring? The consistency is different so it may be too sticky.
Jessica DeMay says
Hi Kimberly, I think that may work. You won't need the water and maybe try 1/4 cup syrup. Hope you love them!
Addison says
I love the maple flavored RX bars so I'm excited to give these a go!