These bright and zesty lemon coconut protein bars are everything I want in a healthy snack—energizing, satisfying, and refreshingly citrusy. With no baking required and only wholesome ingredients, they’re perfect when I need something quick, nutritious, and delicious. Whether I’m refueling after a workout or looking for a sweet yet clean treat during the day, these bars hit the spot every time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup almond flour
2 tbsp coconut flour
1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
2 tbsp maple syrup
2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tbsp lemon zest
2 tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut
1/4 tsp turmeric (for color, optional)
2–4 tbsp water or almond milk, as needed
Optional Topping:
2 tbsp shredded coconut
1 tbsp lemon zest
Directions
I start by combining the almond flour, vanilla protein powder, coconut flour, shredded coconut, and turmeric (if I’m using it) in a large mixing bowl.
I stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and maple syrup until everything is well mixed and the dough begins to come together.
Then, I gradually add a tablespoon of water or almond milk at a time until the dough holds together without becoming sticky.
I press the dough evenly into a parchment-lined loaf pan or small square dish.
To finish, I sprinkle more shredded coconut and lemon zest on top, pressing lightly to help it stick.
I refrigerate the mixture for at least an hour until it’s firm enough to slice into bars or squares.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 6 bars.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Each bar contains approximately 150 kcal.
Variations
I sometimes add a tablespoon of chia seeds or hemp hearts for extra texture and nutrition.
If I’m out of maple syrup, I use agave or date syrup as an alternative sweetener.
For a tropical twist, I mix in a bit of pineapple juice in place of some of the lemon juice.
I like using different flavors of protein powder (like coconut or lemon) to change up the flavor profile.
A handful of finely chopped dried fruit like cranberries or apricots adds a chewy surprise.
Storage/Reheating
I store these bars in an airtight container in the fridge, where they stay fresh for up to one week. For longer storage, I freeze them in a single layer and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag—they keep well for up to 2 months. I let them thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before eating. Since they’re no-bake, there’s no reheating required.
FAQs
How much protein is in each bar?
It depends on the brand of protein powder I use, but typically each bar contains about 8–10 grams of protein.
Can I use chocolate protein powder instead of vanilla?
I’ve tried it, and while it changes the flavor quite a bit, it’s still tasty—more like a lemon-chocolate twist.
Are these bars good for meal prep?
Absolutely. I often make a batch at the beginning of the week and store them in the fridge or freezer for grab-and-go snacking.
Can I leave out the protein powder?
Yes, but I’d suggest increasing the almond flour slightly to maintain the right texture, and keep in mind they won’t have the same protein content.
What’s the purpose of turmeric in the recipe?
I like adding turmeric mainly for its vibrant color—it gives the bars a beautiful golden hue—but it also adds a tiny boost of anti-inflammatory properties.
Conclusion
These lemon coconut protein bars are a staple in my kitchen when I need something fast, healthy, and energizing. They’re simple to make, full of clean ingredients, and taste like a burst of sunshine in every bite. Whether I’m meal prepping or just craving something sweet without the guilt, this is a go-to recipe I keep coming back to.
Recipe:
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Lemon Coconut Protein Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 bars
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These bright and zesty lemon coconut protein bars are a no-bake, energizing snack made with wholesome ingredients like almond flour, protein powder, and lemon zest. Vegan, gluten-free, and naturally sweetened, they’re perfect for post-workout fuel or a clean treat any time of day.
Ingredients
1 cup almond flour
1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
2 tbsp coconut flour
2 tbsp maple syrup
2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tbsp lemon zest
2 tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut
1/4 tsp turmeric (optional, for color)
2–4 tbsp water or almond milk, as needed
Optional Topping:
2 tbsp shredded coconut
1 tbsp lemon zest
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine almond flour, vanilla protein powder, coconut flour, shredded coconut, and turmeric (if using).
- Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and maple syrup until well combined and the dough begins to come together.
- Gradually add water or almond milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough holds together without being sticky.
- Press the dough evenly into a parchment-lined loaf pan or small square dish.
- Sprinkle the optional shredded coconut and lemon zest on top, pressing lightly to help it stick.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm enough to slice into bars or squares.
Notes
Add chia seeds or hemp hearts for extra nutrition and texture.
Swap maple syrup with agave or date syrup as needed.
For a tropical twist, replace part of the lemon juice with pineapple juice.
Experiment with different flavors of protein powder like coconut or lemon.
Add finely chopped dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for variety.
Store in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
