Wild Chocolate Orange Protein Bars

Homemade wild protein bars combining the bright citrus notes of orange with rich chocolate and a blend of whey and casein proteins, sweetened naturally with dates and accented with orange essence.

Steps

1. Soak the dates in warm water for 10 minutes to soften, then drain. 2. In a food processor, blend soaked dates, orange juice, and orange essence until smooth to create a date paste. 3. Add oats, whey protein, casein protein, orange zest, and peanut butter to the date paste. Pulse until combined into a sticky dough. 4. Melt the dark chocolate gently in a microwave or double boiler. 5. Transfer the dough to a lined small tray or container and press firmly into an even layer. 6. Drizzle or spread the melted chocolate over the top. 7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm. 8. Cut into bars or squares and store in an airtight container in the fridge.

40g oats 30g whey protein 20g casein protein 50g pitted dates 1 tsp orange essence Zest of half an orange 30ml fresh orange juice 20g dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), chopped 1 tbsp peanut butter (optional for creaminess) 1 tbsp water or as needed