So, picture this: you’ve just crushed your workout and you’re feeling like a superhero who’s ready to conquer the world. But wait, you’re actually starving and you know from experience you’re either going to reach for some quickie meal that isn’t so healthy or crash hard. See, after all that sweat and effort, your muscles are basically screaming for some love, and what better way to show them you care than with a delicious treat? Refueling with some tasty protein-packed snacks is actually a super crucial step before you can officially claim post-workout victory. Not only does protein help rebuild and repair your hard-working muscles, but let’s be real, who wants to munch on something bland and boring after all that hard work? Certainly not me! To help you go from starving to satiated, here’s some of our favorite post-workout snacks that not only pack a protein punch but also leave your taste buds flying high. And don’t forget to hydrate!
Ok, so first off, this Aloha bar is my ultimate favorite combo of peanut butter and chocolate, I mean, you really can’t go wrong there. But add in the fact that it’s rocking a whopping 14 grams of plant-powered protein? Score. Aloha’s bars are a great choice for any vegetarians, vegans, celiacs or paleo-friendly folks and they’re USDA organic, so they’re pretty guilt-free. Their chewy but not gooey texture hits just right.
You don’t have to be following the Atkins diet to indulge in these double fudge brownie bars. And indulgent they are. Both crispy and creamy, and sprinkled with nuts, these protein bars are a chocolate lover’s dream. They’re also loaded with protein and fiber, low in carbs, and a keto-friendly choice if that’s your thing.
While some folks always reach for the sweets when a craving hits, I tend to lean salty. But reaching for a big bag of potato chips isn’t going to do my workout gains any good, so instead I grab a perfectly-sized pack of these Bada Bean Bada Boom fava bean snacks. Think, old-school Corn Nuts meets new-school, plant-based protein perfection. Not only do these tasty little beans come in a ton of savory flavors that are great on their own, but I love throwing them on a big salad for some extra crunch.
If you’re tired of protein bars that taste like cardboard and don’t want all the hidden added sugars found in other snacks, then Barebells are for you. They roll up with a whopping 20 grams of protein that leaves most other protein bars in the dust, and have no added sugar so I never end up with a bellyache after chowing down. My advice? Go for the variety pack, which comes with four of their thirteen flavors, so you get a good sampling of the classics.
Want all the yumminess of your favorite candy bar without any of the guilt? Get your hands on these hazelnut and nougat Barebells protein bars. They come in both regular and plant-based versions, and I’m trying to lean into the veg these days so I go for the vegan version. But either way, you get a super yummy, nougaty bar that has absolutely no added sugar. This flavor is a go-to for making my way from the gym to work without stopping at a vending machine.
I’m all about products that tick more than just one box, and honestly this Chobani Greek yogurt drink does a pretty great job of that. If you’re into yogurt at all, and want something you can grab on the go, check these out. They’ve got a ton of protein (20 grams!), are lactose-free (won’t upset the tummy), no added sugar, and all those good probiotics that help build your gut health at the same time. Sure, you might not want it in your gym bag for hours on end, but if you’re doing a quick workout or have somewhere chill you can keep a stash, these are a great choice.
All right y’all, this one is a classic and it never disappoints. The good ‘ol CLIF BAR. I love that these bars are made with whole food, plant-based ingredients like organic rolled oats in tasty flavors that don’t get too trendy (think classic chocolate chip or crunchy peanut butter, which is my personal favorite). They’re great for post-workout and for things like a long hike, camping trip, or rush hour traffic, keeping your blood sugar in order and your stomach quiet.
If you want to up your CLIF BAR game with a bar specially formulated for post-workout refueling, check out their Builders protein bars. Again, I gotta fall back on my favorite flavor combo with the chocolate peanut butter, but they also have plain chocolate and chocolate mint if that’s not your jam. Builders bars are also gluten-free and low glycemic, which means they’ll digest more slowly for prolonged levels of energy instead of a quick spike and crash. They’re less chewy than the classic bar, too, so you get a crunchier bite that’s both tasty and filling.
Not everyone loves the idea of a big glass of milk, especially after a workout, but hear me out: these Core Power shakes? Worth a try. First of all, they tip the scales with 26 grams of complete protein. But they also taste like childhood. You know, that chocolate milk you got on special occasions? Yeah, that’s the one. Plus, they contain all nine essential amino acids, calcium, vitamin D, and electrolytes. Great for refueling but I also grab one as a meal replacement if I’m in a jam and don’t have time to chow down.
If you want a quick, portable protein fix that feels like you’re actually eating real food instead of gnawing on yet another protein bar, EPIC’s 100% grass-fed bison bars are great. They’re kind of like beef jerky, but in a sort of compressed meat bar form, and also keto-friendly and gluten-free. Since you know bacon makes everything better, I prefer this bacon and cranberry flavor, with the fruit adding a bit of tart sweetness that tickles the tastebuds. A bit pricier than other options? Sure. But for something different once in a while, it’s worth the splurge.
Ok, so I wouldn’t really call this one a snack, per se, but Frog Fuel’s collagen protein shots definitely fit the refueling requirements. If you don’t feel like a full meal, these liquid shot packets are a perfect stow-and-go option. Developed by Navy SEALS, these berry-flavored shots rock 15 grams of protein along with being 100% gluten free, sugar free, fat free, and lactose free. They’re everything I need when I’m on the run and while not my highest rated for flavor, it’s such a quick fix that I’m not docking them any points.
If you fancy yourself an athlete on par with the major leagues, Gatorade’s whey protein bars are probably going to float your boat. The protein bar used by the pros in the NFL, NHL, NBA and MLB, these post-workout bars are made with 20 grams of protein and 43 grams of carbs — all of which will help you rebuild muscle and recover in time to do it all over again tomorrow. They definitely have more carbs and calories than other protein bar options, but they’re great if you’re super active and need to sustain that energy. Plus their taste and texture are a decent middle-of-the-pack choice.
For a bit of extra protein that doesn’t taste like it (none of the dreaded chalky protein powder taste or texture), reach for GoMacro’s organic vegan MacroBars. There are 17 flavors to choose from, so there’s something for everyone. I also love that they’re gluten-free, FODMAP-friendly, and great for counting macros or getting that instant fix when you’re breaking an intermittent fast. I love the banana and almond butter or mocha chocolate chip, but you do you.
A good-for-you waffle without syrup dripping everywhere? Count me in. Ok, so Honey Stinger’s stroopwafel cookie isn’t really a waffle, and it doesn’t actually have much protein. But what it lacks in those areas it makes up for in a great tasting carb fix that’s easy to throw in your pocket for a boost of energy. The honey flavor is super unique when it comes to workout snacks (which I think is a good thing), but it also comes in chocolate, vanilla, and some other more standard cookie flavors.
If you want a high-protein post-workout snack bar with ingredients you can actually pronounce, IQBAR’s plant-based protein bars are my fave. And talk about trendy — the matcha chai flavor is really good! IQBARs aren’t just good for your body though, they’re also great for your brain! With magnesium, lion’s mane, vitamin E, MCTs and flavonoids, they’re designed to keep you energized and focused throughout the day.
Sometimes I need to satisfy a crunchy craving but I don’t want to fall into the “once you pop” trap, so instead I reach for Kibo’s chickpea chips. These crispy little triangles have 6 grams of protein per pack, along with dietary fiber and no added sugar, so they’re surprisingly good for you and they have some great flavor as well. I like the pico de gallo for a bit of bite but I’m down with all the flavors because they really are that good.
Speaking of crunchy, enter KIND’s grab-and-go granola packets. These are my ultimate favorite multi-purpose snack, whether it’s post-gym, breakfast mode, or late night snack. I love the versatility of having a mini pack of granola clusters on hand for dumping directly into my mouth, throwing on a bowl of yogurt or ice cream, or snacking on between Zoom calls. Their peanut butter clusters feature five super grains — oats, buckwheat, millet, amaranth, and quinoa — and provide both 7 grams of protein and plenty of fiber to keep things moving in the right direction.
Gluten-free and keto-friendly, these aren’t your mama’s toaster pastries. In fact, they don’t really go in the toaster at all! But they sure do taste fantastic. I love the Legendary Foods branding and the idea of turning everyone’s favorite childhood indulgences into good-for-you protein snacks. Their chocolate-cake flavored protein pastry hits hard with 20 grams of protein, a third of your daily fiber, less than 1g of sugar and only 5g net carbs! You can eat it right out of the super portable package but I prefer them warmed for a few seconds in the microwave for added gooeyness.
Gooey, chewy and shockingly delicious, Legendary Foods’ cinnamon sweet rolls are also a staple in my pantry. Like, literally never not on hand. If you’re tired of bland diet foods, need a quick meal replacement, or have a sweet tooth craving, this is the one for you. With 20g of premium protein, only 5g net carbs and less than 1g sugar, this protein sweet roll is a perfect partner for your morning coffee or an ideal late night snack. Warm it up in the microwave for a few seconds and you’re good to go.
If your post-workout self really wants to celebrate, you can do so with this plant-based protein-loaded birthday cake-flavored cookie treat from Lenny & Larry’s. I know, that’s a mouthful. But once you get a bite of this vegan protein cookie, you may just kick off the party yourself. It’s packed with fiber, tastes great, and isn’t too sweet despite appearances. Does it come in other flavors? Absolutely, but I’ll take sprinkles any day.
Ok so if you prefer bite-sized treats instead of giant cookies or bars, Lenny & Larry’s also makes these super crispy sandwich cookies that are actually good for you. Unlike their overly sweet name brand cousins, these snack-sized cream-filled cookies are certified Vegan and made with 5 grams of plant-based protein and 3 grams of prebiotic fiber per serving. They have way less sugar than regular sandwich cookies, so you can munch ’em down post-workout without feeling heavy or experiencing a sugar crash.
I love regular beef jerky, and it’s a go-to in my snack routine, but Lorissa’s Kitchen kicks things up a notch with their Korean barbecue steak strips. We’re talking 8 grams of protein per serving, gluten-free, keto-friendly and have no preservatives and no added nitrites or MSG. Oh, and did I mention the flavor? A little sweet, a little spicy — it’s a chef’s kiss from me.
Not to reveal my age, but I clearly remember when LUNA Bars were first launched because they were all the rage with the college crowd who couldn’t be bothered with real meals, of course. I’m not actually a huge fan of all the flavors but there’s something about this lemon zest bar that gets it right. This one is gluten free, light, crispy, and even kind of refreshing. Which is great after a heavy sweat sesh. Plus it’s got 8 grams of complete plant protein and is low-glycemic so you stay nourished throughout a busy day.
If fun, worldly flavors are your jam, then look no further than Mexcla’s vegan protein bars. Made with pea crisps and quinoa to pack a plant-based punch, these bars have 10 grams of protein and are totally soy, dairy, and gluten-free. They source ingredients from all over the globe for their awesome flavors like Japanese matcha vanilla or Mexican hot chocolate (a personal fave). But I also love that the brand has partnered with The Hunger Project, a global non-profit committed to ending world hunger by 2030, donating a portion of bar sales to support their efforts. Good for you, your tastebuds, and the world!
While we certainly want post-workout snacks that nourish the body, there’s nothing wrong with nourishing the brain too. And MINDRIGHT’s superfood bars do just that. Formulated with their special blend of brain-boosting antioxidants and adaptogens to support a happy and healthy mind, MINDRIGHT bars were recommended to me by an actual doctor! But they also have 10 grams of protein in their plant-based recipe so you can get the best for your bod too.
Speaking of superfoods, MOSH is also a brain-fuel-packed protein bar that does a body really good. They’re loaded with protein, gut-friendly fiber, superfoods including lion’s mane, ashwagandha, omega 3’s, collagen, flaxseed, vitamin B12, and D3 — and only 1 gram of sugar. These bars aren’t vegan, but they are keto-friendly, low carb, and truly delicious. Seriously, though. All the flavors are pretty tasty so go for the variety pack to find your favorite.
By any account, 25 grams of protein is a lot. But that’s what we’re going for when we’re worked out hard. It’s hard to beat Muscle Milk when it comes to post-gym refueling in an easy-to-grab bottle that goes anywhere you go. This is the one for those of you who don’t desire any extra fluff, just a good ‘ol shake that’s reliable in getting you the protein you need, when you need it.
Somewhere between a protein shake and a little shot of goo lies the promised land of Noka superfood smoothies. Seriously, these fruity little pouches don’t even require refrigeration, which is great for tossing them in your gym bag (even if you forget it’s there for a couple days) or taking out on the trail. The pineapple makes these pouches super refreshing, and each one has 5 grams of plant protein, 5 grams of prebiotic fiber, and a bunch of other good-for-you stuff you won’t regret.
In general, yogurt is a great protein snack, but most brands have a lot of hidden sugar that isn’t doing your workout any favors. But I found this Oikos Triple Zero to be a real yogurt hero if there ever was one. It’s thick, delicious, packed with protein, and doesn’t have any fat or added sugar, so you’re getting all the good stuff and none of the guilt. Whether you eat it plain or add your favorite fresh fruit or granola for crunch, this Greek style yogurt is a winner for post-gym grub.
If you’re looking for an ooey, gooey sweet fix sans all the sugar, then One’s maple glazed doughnut protein bars are for you. A gluten-free bar with 20 grams of protein and only 1 gram of sugar, this protein-heavy treat makes a great post-gym snack that fuels your muscles and tickles your tastebuds. I mean, it truly tastes like a doughnut, you guys. You can’t argue with that.
My second favorite flavor protein bar from ONE is the peanut butter and jelly. Because childhood cravings are the loudest, especially when I’m burnt out and have busted my butt in the gym. If you want a bar that packs 20 grams of protein, only 1 gram of sugar, and hits the mark for a quick flavor fix, grab this one. Does it taste like an actual PB&J? Maybe not. But it more than makes up for it in health benefits and crushes my craving just right.
Don’t worry, these bars don’t actually taste like mushrooms! But Balanced Tiger has made delicious snacks with beautiful packaging and a full dose of cordyceps mushrooms, setting them apart from the protein pack. The adaptogens in these also support your immune system and brain function, and they’re gluten-free and vegan so they work for most folks’ dietary restrictions. I’m into the banana chocolate chip flavor, but the variety pack is a good place to start if you want to give them a try.
Ok, so you have to keep these perfectly-portioned snack size protein bars in the fridge, but trust me, it’s worth it. Made with quality ingredients including 20+ superfoods and 6g of whole food protein, these cookie-dough textured bars are one I reach for time and again. They’re smaller than most full-sized bars so are great if you need a quick post-gym pick-me-up but know you’re going to have a full meal soon. The dark chocolate chip peanut butter is my favorite, as it’s perfectly nutty and not too sweet.
A light, crispy, wafer-style snack, Power Crunch’s cookies and creme protein bar is a great alternative to heavier, gooey bars that have a lot of chew. I like the lighter texture sometimes, and they have 13 grams of protein and only 6 grams of sugar. If you’re into wafer-style dessert cookies (very European of you), give these a try, as they definitely hit that spot for me. Their other flavors are just as good if you’re into them, too.
Whether you’re watching your weight, want to eat heart-healthy, want a good, crunchy, all-natural post-gym snack or all of the above, Power Up’s premium protein-packed trail mix is a good go-to. And this is coming from someone who usually makes her own trail mix because I’m picky about too much added sugar and salt. This one is a blend of crunchy almonds, creamy cashews, jumbo raisins, and nutritious pumpkin seeds. It has 7 grams of protein in a little 1/4 cup serving size, and it’s easy for your body to digest because there’s nothing weird or fake in here.
It’s water, it’s protein, it’s both! Seriously, I don’t know how the scientists do it but I’m glad they did. They actually managed to make water infused with 15 grams (whoa!) of whey protein isolate in fun, fruity flavors. As someone who has trouble staying hydrated because I find plain water kind of boring, these waters pull double duty for me. Just make sure you shake them up well, as the protein kind of tends to settle at the bottom. Think of it like a little extra workout after your workout.
If you’re looking for a classic high protein bar that’s great pre- or post-workout for fueling your biggest gains, Pure Protein’s chocolate deluxe is a solid pick. It’s one of the more affordable options on the market, offering a great price point for the budget-conscious. And it packs 21 grams of protein, which is definitely at the high end. They taste like a brownie (use your imagination), are super consistent, and a good no-frills option if you just don’t want to fuss.
I’m a no-fuss kind of girl, and my all-time favorite dessert is none other than a classic chocolate chip cookie. But you and I both know those aren’t really so healthy. So when I found these Quest protein cookies, I was intrigued. It’s a keto-friendly, high-protein, low-carb, low-sugar treat, all baked into a soft chocolate chip biscuit that crushes my dessert cravings. It’s certainly not rocking the buttery depth of a “real” chocolate chip cookie, but it’s a lot better for the bod and works well when I need a sugar fix to trick myself into thinking I’ve had an indulgent treat.
Ok, ok, so my second favorite sweet treat is a classic peanut butter cup. We all know them well. But they’re usually loaded with fake, processed ingredients and tons of sugar. Quest has gone above and beyond with their take, coming up with a protein-packed peanut butter cup that has 11 grams of dairy-based proteins, 4 grams of fiber, less than 1 gram of sugar and 1 gram of net carbs per pack. What does all that mean? It means you can basically eat these delightful snacks anytime you like, as they’ll get you all the protein your body needs to recover and refuel without any of the sugar that would spoil your gains.
Quest is kind of a leader in the protein-packed snack category with tons of options including powders, bars, cookies, and candy. But they’ve upped their game with these iced coffees y’all. I love an iced coffee more than most things in life, so this is a win win for me with only 1 gram of sugar and 10 grams of protein per serving. Plus, it has 200mg of caffeine, which is great after a morning workout to really keep my energy going for the day. Some folks are adding extra shots to them, but that can get a bit buzzy. Try them over ice or just throw one in your gym bag and go!
Spicy, crunchy chips are all the rage these days so why not make them good for you? Quest did just that with their tortilla-style protein chips. These delicious snacks, perfect for post-gym snacking or keeping in the car for hunger emergencies, have 18-20 grams of protein and 3-4 grams of net carbs per serving. They also have tons of flavor. So much so that I have to keep plenty of water on hand when I’m digging into the chili lime flavor. They’re great for a salty craving and you can crunch them into cottage cheese or over a salad (my favorite trick) to add crunch and a bit of bite.
They’re smooth, creamy, a little bit sweet, and thankfully shelf-stable because I never have enough room in the fridge. Meet Ripple’s plant-based protein shake. Made from pea protein, these gluten- and lactose-free shakes have 20 grams of protein and lots of extra vitamins to keep you going post-workout. They’re not chalky, and make a good post-workout refreshment if you don’t want anything too heavy. You can pour over ice on a hot day, or even add a shot of espresso to make your own iced mocha if you’re feeling frisky.
RXBAR is known for making bars with simple ingredients, and as they say, no b.s., and their A.M. protein breakfast bar is no exception to the rule. Crafted from good whole foods in a perfect morning flavor combo that tastes really good, this is a go-to morning treat when I’m running out the door. The honey, cinnamon and peanut butter combo just tastes like a perfect breakfast cereal yet this bar also has 10 grams of protein in a tiny package. No chemicals, no filler, great chewy texture. What’s to argue with?
Outside of their breakfast bars, RXBAR makes a bunch of great protein bar flavors all with simple ingredients that are high in protein for a post-gym refuel. I go against my own grain here though and really dig their blueberry bar instead of my typical chocolate and peanut butter fixes. It’s loaded with actual blueberries, sweetened with dates, and has a super chewy texture that I dig with my morning coffee. Whether you’re having one as a snack or a meal replacement, the RXBAR will keep you going for hours.
Hear me out — you might not think of pickled beans as a great post-gym go-to. But these Brami lupini beans will change your mind. Kind of like edamame, lupini beans have been a snacking bean in the Mediterranean for centuries, and they’re packed with good fiber and protein. They’re vegan, keto-friendly, and you can eat them on their own or toss them onto a salad, grain bowl or stir-fry for some added post-workout nutrition. The variety comes with fun flavors like chili lime and garlic rosemary and they fill me up without weighing me down at all, which is great for anytime snacking.
We all know that almonds are one of the healthiest sources of good fats and proteins when it comes to natural sources. But can I tell you a secret? I don’t love them. That’s where SkinnyDipped’s coated almonds come in to save the day. These on-the-go snack packs of whole roasted almonds make even the healthiest nut delish with a light coating of maple sugar and sea salt, a thin layer of rich dark chocolate or yogurt, and a finishing hint of cocoa, peanut butter or lemon for good measure. Are they bursting at the seams with protein? No. But they’re a better choice than a lot of other snacks and they taste amazing.
Save yourself from gas station beef sticks, folks. Seriously. The New Primal is killing it with these buffalo-style chicken snack sticks from both a flavor and protein front. Keto-friendly, gluten-free and sugar-free, these chicken sticks will punch you in the mouth with their taste and each one has 9 grams of protein and just 60 calories. This one is juicy (chicken sticks usually tend to be too dry for me), has a ton of crunch, and isn’t too spicy, so don’t chicken out. Pun intended.
If you’re more into classic meat sticks without all the fancy new flavors, give The New Primal’s grass-fed beef sticks a shot. With zero sugar, 6 grams of protein and just 80 calories per stick, they’re a healthful protein fix for your post-workout haze. They’re a bit on the salty side, but what beef stick isn’t, and they have a good flavor and texture.
They’re keto-friendly, gluten-free, sugar-free, low-carb and rock with 7 grams of protein in each stick. And at only 45 calories, they’re a lighter option than other meat sticks if you’re counting. Who are they? The New Primal’s free-range turkey sticks, of course. Light and crunchy, these turkey sticks are flavored with classic seasonings like garlic, onion, ginger, paprika, and white pepper for a quick protein bite that hits the spot.
Last but certainly not least, we’ve got The Only Bean’s crunchy roasted edamame. Now, I love a bean snack, if you haven’t noticed, because they’re loaded with natural protein and fiber and are totally gluten-free and vegan- and keto-friendly. Add some fanciful flavors to these magic beans, tho, and I’m hooked. In the variety pack you get their sea salt sort of “au natural” beans, plus packs of both their buffalo and sriracha flavors, which hit my flavor meter pretty high. I love throwing them on a salad for an extra kick, but you can crunch away straight out of the bag too!
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