These hemp and cacao protein bars combine two nutrient-packed foods together to make a tasty, nutritious treat that everyone can enjoy, including vegetarians and vegans.

Hemp is one of the most nutritious plants on the earth, and cacao isn’t left behind either. With these simple hemp and cacao protein bar snacks, you get to enjoy the best of both foods in a single treat. And the best part? It takes less than an hour to make!

Why We Love It

Hemp seeds are a great source of plant protein. They include all nine essential amino acids. The proteins

in hemp, edestin and albumin, are also believed to be readily absorbed by human bodies.

Apart from quick absorption, hemp is a plant-based source of protein. Due to the fact that many vegetarians and vegans do not get the rich proteins provided by animal products, they need to find alternatives. Hemp becomes an exceptional option.

Hemp seeds are especially high in beneficial lipids as well. This includes omega-3 fatty acids, which are linked to better heart health by lowering cholesterol, blood pressure, and triglycerides.

Cacao powder, on the other hand, is high in protein as well as magnesium and iron. Cacao powder is also high in flavonoids. These nutrients can help decrease high blood pressure and enhance blood flow to the brain and heart, and aid in blood clot prevention.

This recipe uses 1 tablespoon of our very own Hemp Shack Hemp Seeds. It also includes hemp in various forms, so you will be sure to get all the benefits of this wonderful food.

This recipe is super easy, super healthy, and super tasty. It takes around 30 minutes to prepare and then 30 minutes to serve. And the bars can be preserved in the refrigerator for several days.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp hemp seeds
• 1 tbsp + 1/4 cup cacao powder
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 1 tbsp desiccated coconut
• 1/2 cup hemp flour
• 2 tbsp hemp protein
• 2 tbsp coconut oil
• 1/4 cup of any nut butter of choice 2 tbsp maple syrup

The cacao powder, chia seeds, hemp seeds, and desiccated coconut are all for decorating the bars once they are done. These embellishments pack in extra nutrients and flavour, so don’t forget to add them!

Method

1. Add the hemp flour, hemp protein, cacao powder (1/4 cup), coconut oil, and nut butter in a processor and process until smooth and blended. Add the maple syrup for sweetness.

2. In a separate small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon each of cacao powder, chia seeds, desiccated coconut, and hemp seeds.

3. Mould the protein mixture into a rectangular block, lay it down on your cutting surface, then cut it into bars. Aim for dimensions that are roughly 4.5 × 1.5 × 15 centimetres  for the best result.

4. Coat the bars generously with the decorative mixture.

5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Explore more of our hemp-based recipes.