Strawberry Pistachio Cream Protein Bars
Sometimes the best recipes are the ones you throw together on a whim and they end up turning out way better than expected. These strawberry pistachio bars are that kind of recipe. They’ve got a crunchy, nutty base, a creamy coconut, pistachio and strawberry center. Top it all off with a simple chocolate shell that pulls it all together. They’re packed with healthy fats, plant-based protein, and fresh strawberries, which makes them equal parts nourishing and satisfying — basically everything I want in a snack bar.
This recipe is no-bake, gluten-free, dairy-free, refined sugar-free, and made with just a handful of pantry staples. It’s sweet without being too sweet, creamy without any dairy, and surprisingly filling thanks to the protein powder and nut butter. They’re perfect for a pre- or post-workout snack, a healthier dessert, or anytime you’re craving something with crunch, creaminess, and a little chocolate on top.
Watch Me Make Strawberry Pistachio Cream Protein Bars
These bars seriously taste like summer. The strawberries, pistachio butter, and coconut give them the perfect mix of fresh, fruity, and creamy. And since they’re totally no-bake, you don’t even have to turn on the oven, which is exactly what I want when it’s hot out. They’re the easiest sweet treat to keep in the fridge or to bring to a summer hangout.. They store really well in the fridge or freezer, so make a batch or two — just warning you now, they disappear fast.
Why You’ll Love These
Creamy, Crunchy, and Chocolatey – A chewy cereal and pistachio base layered with a creamy strawberry-pistachio filling and topped with rich dark chocolate. Texture lovers, this one’s for you.
Protein-Packed – With protein powder in the base and healthy fats in every layer, these bars are both satisfying and energizing.
No-Bake and Easy to Make – No oven needed and just a few simple steps. The hardest part is waiting for them to set in the freezer.
Totally Free From… – No gluten, no grains, no dairy, no refined sugar, and no weird stuff. Just real, whole ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Kid-Friendly and Snack-Approved – Naturally sweet and fun to eat. A great option to pack for school or work.
What You’ll Need
Strawberry Cereal – I used Lovebird’s Strawberry Cereal, which is sweetened only with honey. If you’re vegan, you can swap in a similar grain-free or gluten-free cereal of choice.
Pistachios – For crunch and flavor. Raw or roasted both work here.
Pistachio Butter – This is the real star of the show. Make sure it is creamy and only has pistachios and salt.
Unsweetened Coconut – Adds chew and subtle sweetness.
Honey or Maple Syrup – Either one works to sweeten the base and help it stick.
Vanilla Protein Powder – I used a clean vanilla plant-based protein powder (CODE: SARI) to bump up the protein content and help bind everything.
Evaporated Coconut Milk – Make sure it’s chilled. It adds richness and helps the filling set up beautifully.
Chopped Strawberries – Fresh or thawed frozen berries work. Dice them small for easier mixing.
Dark Chocolate + Coconut Oil – This simple ganache-style topping adds the perfect final layer. Melt together and pour on top.
How To Make
In a food processor, blend together the strawberry cereal, pistachios, coconut, pistachio butter, honey, and protein powder until a sticky dough forms. It should be crumbly but hold when pressed.
Line a loaf pan with parchment paper and press the base mixture into the bottom. Freeze while you make the filling.
In a bowl, whisk together the pistachio butter, chopped strawberries, and chilled evaporated coconut milk until smooth. Pour over the base and spread evenly.
Freeze for 2 hours or until set.
Melt the chocolate and coconut oil together until smooth, then pour over the frozen filling. Smooth it out, then freeze for another 30 minutes.
Slice into bars, sprinkle with extra pistachios or strawberries if you want, and enjoy! Store in the fridge or freezer.
Recommended Tools
Loaf Pan - I love Caraway for a nontoxic option (CODE: SARI)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different nut butter instead of pistachio?
Totally! Cashew butter or almond butter will work great here, or even Sunbutter would be phenomenal! Just keep in mind the flavor will shift slightly — pistachio gives it that extra “wow” factor (and a pretty color 💚).
Do I need to use protein powder?
Nope! It helps boost the flavor and texture, but you can leave it out or swap with collagen or coconut flour if needed.
How should I store them?
These bars need to be kept in the fridge or freezer. I like to keep them frozen and let one sit out for like 10 minutes before eating — like a creamy ice cream bar 🍓
Strawberry Pistachio Cream Protein Bars
A creamy, fruity, no-bake treat made with real strawberries, pistachio butter, and coconut. These gluten-free, dairy-free protein bars are packed with flavor and perfect for summer — no oven needed. Keep them in the fridge or freezer for an easy snack or dessert all week long.
Ingredients
Instructions
Like This Recipe?
💡 More no bake recipes you’ll love: [No Bake Pistachio Matcha Brownies] / [Vegan Snickers Ice Cream Bars] / [High Protein Edible Cookie Dough]