Protein bars can be a convenient and tasty way to increase protein intake and support muscle building and recovery, especially for individuals with busy lifestyles or who may have difficulty getting enough protein from their diet alone. Protein is an essential nutrient that plays several important roles in the body, including building and repairing tissue, enzyme and hormone production, transporting molecules, balancing fluids, strengthening immunity, and helping with metabolism. Consuming enough protein can help to support muscle building and recovery, maintain or improve muscle mass, and support weight management.
Protein bars have become a very popular and widely available product, with many different brands, tastes, and other variations to choose from. Among the flavors, peanut butter and chocolate have proven to be one of the most popular and well-received products across many protein bar brands. The number of options for consumers can appear overwhelming and a variety of factors can inform an individual’s choice. Here are the top 10 chocolate and peanut butter-flavored protein bars for 2023 for individuals that are focused on preserving their health, achieving fitness objectives, and/or adhering to a protein-rich diet.
1. Zentein Peanut Butter Cup Protein Bars
Zentein is a brand of protein products that specializes in protein-rich peanut butter cups, alongside its protein truffles. The company was founded in 2020 and is headquartered in London, Ontario, Canada. Ingredients in Zentein Peanut Butter Cup Protein Bars include:
Collagen protein
Peanut butter
Sugars (honey)
Belgian dark chocolate
Oats
Zentein Peanut Butter Cup Protein Bars contain 25 grams of protein per serving (1 bar). Collagen protein isolate is a dietary supplement that is made from collagen, a protein that is found in the connective tissue of animals. Collagen protein isolate is made by breaking down collagen into its individual amino acid building blocks and then purifying it to remove impurities and contaminants. Collagen protein isolate is a source of essential amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. It is generally well tolerated and has several potential health benefits, including supporting skin health, improving gut health, and helping to build and maintain muscle mass.
Since the launch of Zentein Peanut Butter Cups, the protein bars have been well-received. The protein content per serving is comparably greater than many products of a similar vein on the market. Many reviewers enjoy the taste of Zentein Peanut Butter Cups and state that they are convenient snacks or light meals. Furthermore, consumers have highlighted the small number of ingredients, which are naturally sourced, compared to most protein bars from other brands that feature over a dozen components (many of which are artificially produced).
2. MuscleTech Chocolate PB NitroTech Bars
MuscleTech is a brand of sports nutrition and performance products, including protein powders, protein bars, and pre-workout supplements. The company was founded in 1995 and is headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida. The ingredients in MuscleTech NitroTech Whey Protein Bar for the chocolate peanut butter flavor include:
Protein blend (whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, milk protein isolate)
Isomaltooligosaccharide
Peanut butter coating Glycerin
Water
Chocolate-flavored coating peanut flour
Coconut oil
Natural and artificial flavors
Salt
Sucralose
This protein bar contains 20 grams of protein per serving (1 bar) and is intended to support muscle building and recovery. The protein in this bar comes from a blend of whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, and milk protein isolate. Whey protein is a type of protein that is derived from milk. It is a complete protein, meaning that it contains all nine essential amino acids that the body needs but cannot produce on its own. It is often used in protein supplements and protein bars because it is easily digestible and has a high biological value, which means that it is efficiently used by the body for muscle building and repair. Milk protein isolate is a form of protein that is derived from milk and is made up of both casein and whey protein. It is a complete protein and is also easily digestible.
3. Quest Nutrition Peanut Butter Supreme Bars
Quest Nutrition is a brand of sports nutrition and wellness products, including protein powders, protein bars, and snacks. The company was founded in 2010 and is headquartered in El Segundo, California. The ingredients in Quest Nutrition Peanut Butter Supreme Bars include:
Protein blend (milk protein isolate, whey protein isolate)
Soluble corn fiber
Peanuts
Water
Erythritol
Peanut butter
Cocoa butter
Palm oil
Natural flavors
Sea salt
Sunflower lecithin
Baking soda
Sucralose
Quest Nutrition Peanut Butter Supreme Bars contain 20 grams of protein per serving (1 bar). The protein in this bar comes from a blend of milk protein isolate and whey protein isolate. Milk protein isolate is produced by separating the casein and whey proteins from milk through a process called ultrafiltration. The resulting protein isolate contains a higher proportion of protein compared to whole milk and is also lower in fat, lactose, and other milk components.
Quest Nutrition Peanut Butter Supreme Bars contain great benefits for the number of calories in each bar, packing in a high amount of protein and fiber content. Consumers have been split on how well the bars hold up against heat, with some reviewers claiming they melt easily while others see them as durable. Furthermore, opinions on how good the bars taste vary greatly and the brand’s fruity flavors have more favourable reviews.
4. CLIF Chocolate Chip Peanut Crunch Bars
CLIF Bar is a brand of energy and nutrition bars that are formulated to provide sustained energy and support overall health and wellness. The company was founded in 1992 by Gary Erickson and is headquartered in Emeryville, California. The ingredients in CLIF Chocolate Chip Peanut Crunch Bars include:
Soy protein isolate
Rolled oats
Brown rice syrup
Peanut butter
Vegetable glycerin
Peanuts
Rice flour
Inulin
Semi-sweet chocolate chips Salt
Soy lecithin
Mixed tocopherols
CLIF Chocolate Chip Peanut Crunch Bars contain 10 grams of protein per serving (1 bar). The protein in this bar comes from soy protein isolate. Soy protein isolate is a type of protein that is derived from soybeans. It is a complete protein and it is often used in protein supplements and protein bars because it is easily digestible, meaning that it is efficiently used by the body for muscle building and repair.
CLIF Bars are portable and easy to carry with consumers, making them a convenient option for those with busy schedules or on the go. They can be a good morning meal or mid-day snack for those looking for a treat with a low-calorie count. CLIF Bars may contain ingredients that can trigger allergies in some individuals, such as peanuts, nuts, and soy. It is important to read the label and consider any potential allergies or dietary restrictions you may have before consuming a CLIF Bar.
5. Vega Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars
Vega is a brand of plant-based nutrition and wellness products, including protein powders, protein bars, and snacks. The company was founded in 2004 and is headquartered in Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada. The ingredients in Vega Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars include:
Pea protein isolate
Chicory root fiber
Peanuts
Cacao
Peanut butter
Coconut oil
Brown rice protein concentrate
Natural flavors
Sunflower lecithin
Sea salt
Vega Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars contain 15 grams of protein per serving (1 bar). The protein in this bar comes from pea protein isolate and brown rice protein concentrate. Pea protein isolate is a type of protein that is derived from peas. It is easily digestible and has a high biological value, which means that it is efficiently used by the body for muscle building and repair. Brown rice protein concentrate is often used in protein supplements and protein bars because it is a plant-based protein source that is suitable for many different dietary lifestyles, including vegan and vegetarian.
Vega Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars are plant-based protein bars that are formulated to support muscle building and recovery. They may be suitable for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet. Reviewers praise the taste of Vega bars, but they note that their price is higher than some other brands in the market. Plant-based ingredients, such as those used in Vega bars, may be more expensive than some other types of protein sources, such as whey or soy.
6. ONE Brands PB Chocolate Chip Protein Bars
ONE Brands is a brand of protein bars, protein powders, and snacks. The company was founded in 2004 and is headquartered in Quincy, Massachusetts. ONE Brands products are formulated with high-quality protein sources, such as whey and milk protein. The ingredients in ONE Brands Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Protein Bars include:
Milk protein isolate
Soluble corn fiber
Peanuts
Almonds
Coconut oil
Chocolate chips
Salt
Sunflower lecithin
ONE Brands Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Protein Bars contain 20 grams of protein per serving (1 bar). The protein in this bar comes from milk protein isolate. Consuming milk protein isolate before or after a workout can help to support muscle building and recovery. Milk protein isolate can also be a convenient and effective way to increase protein intake for those who may not be getting enough protein from their diet. Adequate protein intake is important for maintaining good health and supporting physical activity and exercise.
ONE Brands Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Protein Bars may also be a good option for those looking for a snack that is high in protein and relatively low in calories. Reviewers claim these protein bars satisfy their sweet tooth cravings without intaking high amounts of sugar. This flavor is distinct from ONE Brands Peanut Butter Cup Protein Bars, which are a different flavor of protein bars from the same brand. They have similar ingredients and nutritional content but differ in taste.
7. Larabar Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars
Larabar is a brand of protein bars that are made with whole-food ingredients and are intended to support a healthy lifestyle. The company was founded in 2000 and is headquartered in Denver, Colorado. Larabar protein bars come in a variety of flavors and are made with whole-food ingredients that are minimally processed. The ingredients in Larabar Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Protein Bars include:
Chocolate chips
Peanuts
Dates
Cocoa
Larabar Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Protein Bars do not contain added protein sources such as milk protein isolate or whey protein. Larabar protein bars are formulated with a variety of ingredients, including nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, and are designed to be a convenient and tasty way to increase protein intake. They are a good source of protein and fiber, and also contain added vitamins and minerals to support overall health and wellness. The protein content of Larabar Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Protein Bars may vary depending on the size of the bar and the specific ingredients used.
Consumers give praise to the taste of Larabar Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Protein Bars. They are notably made with whole food, protein-rich ingredients. At the same time, the comparatively low amount of protein in each bar (on top of varying from serving-to-serving and being unspecific) may make Larabar Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Protein Bars unsuitable for consumers looking to precisely track their servings or trying to substantially increase their protein intake.
8. PowerBar Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars
PowerBar is a brand of sports nutrition products, including protein bars, that are designed to support athletic performance and recovery. The company was founded in 1986 and is headquartered in California. The ingredients in PowerBar Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars include:
Milk protein isolate
Soy protein isolate
Peanuts
Sugar
Cocoa powder
Natural flavors
Dextrose
Tapioca syrup
Vegetable oil (palm kernel and palm oil)
Peanut flour
Salt
Caramel color
Soy lecithin
Carrageenan
Sucralose
The protein content of PowerBar Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars is 20 grams per serving (1 bar). The protein in these bars comes from milk protein isolate and soy protein isolate. Both are high-quality sources of complete protein. Soy protein isolate is made by removing most of the fat and carbohydrates from soybeans and then separating the protein from the remaining soybean meal. It is a highly concentrated source of protein and is typically lower in fat and calories compared to other protein sources, such as meat and dairy.
PowerBar Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars have been well generally received, with many consumers praising their texture and moisture. Reviewers’ opinions on the quality of the flavor have varied and the brand’s Cookies And Cream appear to be the more popular option. The comparably high price of PowerBar Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars to some other counterparts in the market has also been noted by consumers.
9. THINK! Chocolate PB Pie Keto Protein
THINK! is a brand of protein bars and other sports nutrition products that are formulated with high-quality ingredients. THINK! is a company that is headquartered in Austin, Texas, and dedicated to creating high-quality products that are formulated with the best ingredients to support healthy and active lifestyles. The ingredients in THINK! Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie Keto Protein includes:
Protein blend (whey protein isolate, milk protein isolate)
Soluble corn fiber
Peanuts
Erythritol
Palm oil
Natural flavors
Cocoa
Salt
Sunflower lecithin
Gum acacia
Sucralose
THINK! Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie Keto Protein is formulated with a blend of whey protein isolate and milk protein isolate, which are high-quality sources of protein that are easily digestible and absorbable by the body. It is also formulated with peanuts, cocoa, and natural flavors, which give it a chocolate peanut butter flavor. THINK! Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie Keto Protein is formulated to be low in carbs and high in fat, making it suitable for individuals following a ketogenic diet. It is sweetened with erythritol and sucralose, which are low-calorie artificial sweeteners.
The taste of THINK! Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie Keto Protein products have been widely commended, with many consumers drawing comparisons to non-protein chocolate bars. Some reviewers have claimed that the pies are prone to melting, which may be a concern if they are purchased online and later delivered. However, other consumers have noted that these products are fridge and freezer friendly.
10. Gatorade Chocolate PB Whey Protein Bars
Gatorade is a brand of sports drinks, energy bars, and other sports nutrition products that was created in 1965 by a team of scientists at the University of Florida. The brand is owned by PepsiCo and is widely known for its sports drinks, although the company also offers other sports nutrition products, such as protein shakes and bars. Ingredients in Gatorade Chocolate Peanut Butter Whey Protein Bars include:
Soy protein isolate
Hydrolyzed whey protein isolate
Sugar
Corn syrup
Vegetable oil
Chocolate flavor coating
Non-fat milk
Fructose
Salt
Peanut flavor coating
Soy lecithin
Gum arabic
Natural and artificial flavors
Carrageenan
Gatorade Chocolate Peanut Butter Whey Protein Bars are formulated with soy protein isolate and hydrolyzed whey protein isolate, which are the main sources of protein in the bars. Hydrolyzed whey protein isolate is a type of protein that is derived from whey, which is a byproduct of cheese production. It is a high-quality source of protein that is easily digestible and absorbable by the body. The protein content of Gatorade Chocolate Peanut Butter Whey Protein Bars may vary depending on the specific product, but many bars contain around 10-20 grams of protein per bar.
Gatorade Chocolate Peanut Butter Whey Protein Bars are a widely recognizable product given the popularity of its parent brand. The flavor is praised among reviewers, with many enjoying their sweet taste and how filling they are. The high calorie count may make Gatorade Chocolate Peanut Butter Whey Protein Bars unsuitable for consumers trying to cut weight, but it makes them great for those looking for a substantial amount of protein in a tasty snack.
There are many quality brands of chocolate and peanut butter protein bars to choose from in 2023. When it comes to making a choice on what product to use, every individual must consider their personal health, dietary, and preference factors. It is always a good idea to read the label and understand the ingredients and nutritional content of any protein bar before consuming it, and to consider your specific nutrition needs and goals. Protein bars are not intended to replace a balanced diet and should be consumed as part of a healthy lifestyle.