Red Velvet Protein Bars

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups almond flour
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
• 3 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup coconut flour
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar substitute
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)
• 3 tbsp almond milk
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1-2 drops red food coloring (natural beet powder preferred)
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened) or cashew cream
• 1/4 cup vanilla protein powder
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar substitute
• 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder (for dusting)
• Red velvet cake crumbs (optional decoration)

Instructions

1. 1

   Line 8x8 pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal

2. 2

   For red velvet base, whisk together almond flour, protein powder, cocoa powder, coconut flour, powdered sugar substitute, and salt

3. 3

   In another bowl, combine melted coconut oil, almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla, and red food coloring

4. 4

   Mix wet ingredients into dry until well combined and holds together when pressed

5. 5

   Press mixture firmly into prepared pan to form even base layer

6. 6

   Refrigerate base while preparing frosting

7. 7

   For cream cheese layer, beat softened cream cheese until light and fluffy

8. 8

   Add protein powder, powdered sugar substitute, Greek yogurt, vanilla, and salt

9. 9

   Beat until smooth and spreadable, about 2-3 minutes

10. 10

    Spread frosting evenly over chilled red velvet base

11. 11

    Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until completely set

12. 12

    Remove from pan using parchment overhang

13. 13

    Lightly dust with cocoa powder before cutting into 12 bars

14. 14

    Garnish with red velvet crumbs if desired