Nutrient-Rich Low GI Chocolate Soy Granola Bars
These delicious and wholesome Low Glycemic Index Granola Bars are specially designed for individuals managing diabetes and those recovering from bariatric surgery. Combining the protein power of soybeans with the rich taste of chocolate and the natural sweetness of honey, these bars are not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients to help stabilize blood sugar levels. Each bar is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making them a perfect grab-and-go breakfast or snack option. Enjoy them guilt-free, knowing they cater to your dietary needs without compromising on taste.
12
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Roasted soybeans (soy nuts)
2 cups (Lightly crushed or left whole)
Almond flour
1/2 cup (Sifted)
Chocolate whey protein powder
1/2 cup (Unflavored or lightly sweetened)
Cinnamon
3/4 teaspoon (Ground)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon (Kosher or sea salt)
Egg whites
2 large (Whisked until frothy)
Water
1/2 cup (Room temperature)
Rolled oats
1/2 cup (Old-fashioned)
Sugar-free chocolate chips
1/2 cup (Optional, for added sweetness)
Vanilla extract
1 tablespoon (Pure or imitation)
Splenda brown sugar blend
1/4 cup (Granulated)
Honey
1/4 cup (Pure, for sweetness and moisture)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 330°F (165°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and set aside.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: roasted soybeans, almond flour, chocolate whey protein powder, cinnamon, salt, rolled oats, and Splenda brown sugar blend. Stir until evenly mixed.
3
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg whites, vanilla extract, honey, and water until well combined.
4
Pour the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly with a wooden spoon until all components are combined and the mixture is sticky.
5
Fold in the sugar-free chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
6
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, pressing it firmly to create an even layer.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, checking for doneness. The almond flour tends to brown quickly; if necessary, add a few extra minutes until the edges are golden brown but not burnt.
8
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.
9
Once cooled, cut into 12 equal bars (approximately 2 oz each), and store them in an airtight container.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Nutrient-Rich Low GI Chocolate Soy Granola Bars?
These are wholesome granola bars designed for individuals managing diabetes or recovering from bariatric surgery, featuring a low glycemic index and high protein content.
Are these granola bars suitable for a diabetic diet?
Yes, they are specifically designed to help stabilize blood sugar levels using low GI ingredients like soybeans and almond flour.
Can individuals who had bariatric surgery eat these?
Absolutely, the recipe is formulated to meet the nutritional needs of those in bariatric recovery.
What is the main protein source in this recipe?
The primary protein sources are roasted soybeans (soy nuts) and chocolate whey protein powder.
How many bars does this recipe produce?
The recipe yields 12 equal bars, each weighing approximately 2 oz.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 330°F (165°C) for baking these bars.
What size baking dish should be used?
A 9x13 inch baking dish is required for this recipe.
How long do the bars need to bake?
The bars should bake for approximately 20 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
What type of flour is used in these granola bars?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of sifted almond flour.
Are there any specific preparation steps for the soybeans?
The 2 cups of roasted soybeans can be lightly crushed or left whole depending on your texture preference.
What type of oats should I use?
Old-fashioned rolled oats are recommended for this recipe.
Is the chocolate whey protein powder flavored?
You can use chocolate whey protein powder that is either unflavored or lightly sweetened.
What role do egg whites play in the recipe?
Two large egg whites, whisked until frothy, act as a binder for the ingredients.
Are the chocolate chips mandatory?
No, the sugar-free chocolate chips are optional and used for added sweetness.
What kind of sweetener is used?
The recipe uses a combination of Splenda brown sugar blend and pure honey.
How much honey is included in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of pure honey for sweetness and moisture.
Is there cinnamon in these bars?
Yes, 3/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon is included for flavor.
What kind of salt should I use?
You can use 1/4 teaspoon of either kosher or sea salt.
How much vanilla extract is needed?
The recipe requires 1 tablespoon of pure or imitation vanilla extract.
Why is water added to the mixture?
Half a cup of room temperature water is mixed with the wet ingredients to help achieve a sticky consistency for binding.
How should I combine the ingredients?
Mix the dry ingredients first, then whisk the wet ingredients separately before combining both and folding in chocolate chips.
What is the best way to store these bars?
Once cooled and cut, store the bars in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can I cut the bars immediately after baking?
No, it is important to allow the mixture to cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.
Why does the recipe use almond flour?
Almond flour is used to keep the glycemic index low while adding healthy fats and protein.
Are these bars a good breakfast option?
Yes, they are designed as a perfect grab-and-go breakfast or snack option.
Should the baking dish be greased?
Yes, grease the 9x13 inch baking dish before pouring in the batter to prevent sticking.
What should I look for to avoid overcooking?
Since almond flour browns quickly, check the bars at 20 minutes to ensure the edges are golden brown but not burnt.
Is this recipe considered vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat products.
What texture should the batter be before baking?
The batter should be thoroughly mixed and sticky before being pressed firmly into the baking dish.
Can I use regular brown sugar instead of Splenda?
Using regular brown sugar will increase the glycemic index and calorie count, making it less ideal for diabetic or bariatric diets.