These Birthday Cake Protein Bars are a fun, high-protein, and no-bake treat that satisfies your sweet tooth while fueling your body. Packed with vanilla protein, creamy cashew butter, and a hint of almond, these bars deliver a nostalgic birthday cake flavor with every bite. Plus, they’re gluten-free, dairy-free, and perfect for meal prep!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-bake & easy – Quick to mix and set in just minutes.
- High in protein – A nutritious post-workout snack or energy boost.
- Gluten-free & dairy-free – Great for special diets and clean eating.
- Tastes like cake – A sweet, nostalgic flavor without the guilt.
- Meal prep friendly – Store in the fridge for a grab-and-go snack all week!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- ¾ cup creamy cashew butter (192 grams) – For a smooth, nutty texture.
- ¼ cup + 1 tablespoon almond milk – Keeps the bars soft and chewy.
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup – Natural sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Essential for that cake-like flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract – Adds a subtle sweetness.
- 1 cup vanilla protein powder (100 grams) – The protein-packed base.
- Pinch of sea salt – Enhances flavors.
- 2 tablespoons rainbow sprinkles – For a fun, celebratory touch!
Directions
1. Prepare the Pan
- Line a bread pan with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together cashew butter, almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth.
3. Add Dry Ingredients
- Stir in vanilla protein powder and a pinch of sea salt until a dough forms.
- If the mixture is too dry, add a little more almond milk, one teaspoon at a time.
4. Fold in Sprinkles
- Gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
5. Shape & Chill
- Press the mixture firmly into the prepared bread pan, smoothing the top.
- Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes for a firmer texture.
6. Slice & Serve
- Once set, cut into 6 equal-sized bars.
- Sprinkle extra rainbow sprinkles on top for decoration.
- Enjoy immediately or store in the fridge for up to one week.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6 bars
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Calories: 293 kcal per bar
Variations
- Swap the nut butter – Use almond butter or peanut butter for a different taste.
- Chocolate version – Add mini chocolate chips for a chocolate birthday cake twist.
- Keto-friendly – Use a sugar-free syrup and low-carb protein powder.
- Extra crunch – Add crushed nuts or coconut flakes.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 2 months.
FAQs
Can I use a different protein powder?
Yes! Use plant-based or whey protein, but adjust the liquid if needed for the right texture.
Can I make this nut-free?
Yes! Swap cashew butter for sunflower seed butter and use oat milk instead of almond milk.
How do I make them even softer?
Add extra almond milk or a little Greek yogurt for a more fudgy texture.
Are these bars kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love the fun sprinkles and sweet vanilla flavor.
Conclusion
These Birthday Cake Protein Bars are the perfect high-protein snack that tastes like dessert but keeps you fueled throughout the day. Whether you need a pre-workout boost, a post-gym recovery snack, or a fun sweet treat, these bars deliver on flavor, texture, and nutrition. Make a batch today and enjoy the birthday cake goodness anytime!
Print
Birthday Cake Protein Bars
These Birthday Cake Protein Bars are a fun, no-bake, high-protein snack that tastes like a sweet celebration! Made with vanilla protein, creamy cashew butter, and colorful sprinkles, these gluten-free and dairy-free bars are perfect for meal prep, post-workout fuel, or a guilt-free treat.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 bars
Ingredients
- ¾ cup creamy cashew butter (192g) – Smooth and nutty base
- ¼ cup + 1 tbsp almond milk – Keeps the bars soft and chewy
- 1 tbsp maple syrup – Adds natural sweetness
- 2 tsp vanilla extract – Essential for the cake-like flavor
- ¼ tsp almond extract – Enhances the sweetness
- 1 cup vanilla protein powder (100g) – Protein-packed base
- Pinch of sea salt – Enhances flavors
- 2 tbsp rainbow sprinkles – For a fun, festive touch
Instructions
-
Prepare the Pan:
- Line a bread pan with parchment paper and set aside.
-
Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together cashew butter, almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth.
-
Add Dry Ingredients:
- Stir in vanilla protein powder and a pinch of sea salt until a dough forms.
- If the mixture is too dry, add more almond milk, one teaspoon at a time.
-
Fold in Sprinkles:
- Gently mix in the rainbow sprinkles.
-
Shape & Chill:
- Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top.
- Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes for a firmer texture.
-
Slice & Serve:
- Once set, cut into 6 bars and enjoy!
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Notes
- Swap the Nut Butter: Use almond or peanut butter for a different flavor.
- Chocolate Version: Add mini chocolate chips for a birthday cake twist.
- Keto-Friendly: Use sugar-free syrup and low-carb protein powder.
- Extra Crunch: Add crushed nuts or coconut flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack, Protein Bar
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free