I wanted to share this simple recipe with you to show just how easy meal prep can be. These homemade protein bars are a family favorite. We use Kodiak Pancake Mix, but you can also substitute with protein powder. Our kids prefer the pancake mix version, while Jimmy and I like the added protein boost from the powder. The best part? This recipe only takes about 5 minutes to prepare before popping them into the freezer. They stay fresh for about a week, but honestly, they disappear long before that in our house!

Here’s the recipe for our go-to protein bars:

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups Kodiak Pancake Mix or protein powder
• 1 1/2 cups organic peanut butter
• 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
• Dash of salt

Topping:

• 4 oz chocolate
• 1 tbsp butter

Directions:

1. Mix the Kodiak Pancake Mix/protein powder, peanut butter, syrup, and salt together.
2. Line a 9″x9″ pan with parchment paper and press the mixture into the pan.
3. Place in the freezer for 30 minutes to set.
4. While the bars are in the freezer, melt the chocolate and butter together in the microwave.
5. Remove the pan from the freezer and slice the mixture into 12-16 bars.
6. Dip each bar into the melted chocolate and sprinkle with salt if desired.
7. Place the bars back in the fridge to firm up.

These bars are perfect for a quick snack during the week, and they fit right into our meal prep routine!