This Go Macro bar contains sunflower seed butter which, while not technically a seed oil, can contain added sunflower oil and may be inflammatory for some people. The bar also contains natural flavors of unknown origin. Our DIY version eliminates these concerns by using pure organic almond butter and real vanilla extract, creating a cleaner protein bar with identical nutrition.
Based on: heartwarming retreat oatmeal + chocolate chip
· Makes approximately 24 bars (65g each)
· Serving: 1 bar (65g)
Why This Recipe is Seed Oil Free
Commercial heartwarming retreat oatmeal + chocolate chip from go macro often contains inflammatory seed oils like canola, soybean, or sunflower oil. This homemade version replaces them with healthier fats like butter, ghee, coconut oil, or avocado oil — giving you the same great taste without the processed oils.
The original heartwarming retreat oatmeal + chocolate chip may also contain artificial dyes. Check it on DyeFreeCheck to find out.
Ingredients
Organic brown rice syrup
480g (about 1.5 cups) · Lundberg Family Farms Organic Sweet Dreams Brown Rice Syrup
Primary binder that creates the chewy texture and holds all ingredients together
Organic raw almond butter
360g (about 1.25 cups) · MaraNatha Organic Raw Almond Butter
Provides healthy fats and creamy texture while replacing potentially inflammatory sunflower seed butter
Organic sprouted brown rice protein powder
180g (about 1.5 cups) · Growing Naturals Organic Sprouted Brown Rice Protein
Clean, easily digestible plant protein that provides structure and nutritional density
Organic pea protein powder
120g (about 1 cup) · Anthony's Organic Pea Protein Powder
Complements rice protein to create complete amino acid profile and boost protein content
10ml (2 teaspoons) · Simply Organic Pure Vanilla Extract
Replaces ambiguous 'natural flavor' with clean, recognizable vanilla taste
Unrefined sea salt
3g (1/2 teaspoon) · Redmond Real Salt Fine Sea Salt
Enhances all flavors and balances sweetness while providing trace minerals
Instructions
Step 1. Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: 180g brown rice protein, 120g pea protein, 240g rolled oats, 60g maple sugar, 90g crispy rice, 60g puffed rice, and 3g sea salt. Whisk thoroughly for 2-3 minutes to ensure proteins are evenly distributed — protein powders tend to clump and create gritty spots if not properly mixed.
Step 2. In a medium saucepan over low heat, gently warm 480g brown rice syrup until it becomes pourable but not hot (about 2-3 minutes) — overheating will make it too sticky to work with. Remove from heat and immediately stir in 360g almond butter until completely smooth. The warmth helps create a uniform mixture. Add 10ml vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
Step 3. Pour the warm syrup mixture over the dry ingredients and mix vigorously with a wooden spoon until everything is evenly coated and the mixture holds together when pressed — this takes 3-4 minutes of active stirring. The mixture should be sticky but not wet. If too dry, add 1-2 tablespoons more brown rice syrup. If too wet, add more oats or protein powder in equal parts.
Step 4. Add 180g chocolate chips and fold in gently to distribute evenly without breaking them. Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan and press down firmly with clean hands or the back of a measuring cup, paying special attention to corners and edges — uneven pressing creates bars that fall apart. The surface should be level and compact.
Step 5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until completely firm. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire block out of the pan, then cut into 24 equal bars using a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts. For clean cuts, score first, then cut through in one motion. Store individually wrapped in parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking.
Storage
Store wrapped bars in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months. Let frozen bars thaw for 10-15 minutes before eating for optimal texture. Keep away from heat to prevent bars from becoming too soft.
Cost Comparison
Cost per serving (homemade)$1.15
Cost per serving (store-bought)$2.49
Savings54%
High upfront ingredient cost but substantial long-term savings. Many ingredients like protein powders and seasonings last for multiple batches, bringing down the per-serving cost significantly over time.