# What You'll Need:
→ Cookie Bar Base
01 - 2 cups almond flour, preferably organic
02 - 1/3 cup monk fruit sweetener
03 - 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 4 tablespoons coconut oil, softened
06 - 4 tablespoons plain nonfat Greek yogurt
07 - 2 large eggs
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
09 - 30 g protein powder, optional for high-protein version
→ Cream Cheese Frosting
10 - 4 oz cream cheese, softened
11 - 15 g protein powder, optional
12 - monk fruit sweetener, to taste
13 - 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
14 - 2 teaspoons unsweetened almond milk, or as needed for consistency
# Directions:
01 - Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line an 8x8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring enough overhang on sides to easily lift the bars out later.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, monk fruit sweetener, baking powder, salt, and protein powder if using, until thoroughly combined.
03 - Add the eggs, softened coconut oil, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Mix with a spatula or hand mixer until a thick, smooth batter forms with no visible flour pockets.
04 - Transfer the batter to your prepared baking dish. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly into all corners, creating a smooth surface.
05 - Place the dish in the center of the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. The bars are done when the center is puffed and set, and the edges have turned a light golden color.
06 - Remove from the oven and let the bars cool entirely in the pan. This is crucial—warm bars will cause the frosting to melt and slide off.
07 - While the bars cool, beat the softened cream cheese in a small bowl until smooth. Add the protein powder if using, vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of almond milk. Beat until creamy and spreadable, adding more almond milk only if needed to reach the right consistency. Sweeten with monk fruit to your preference.
08 - Once the bars are completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the surface using an offset spatula. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the frosting. Cut into 16 squares before serving.
