Finding a protein bar that checks all the boxes - taste, nutrition, and low-calorie content - can be a bigger challenge than completing a gym session itself.
But if you're someone who loves the convenience of protein bars but doesn't want to load up on excess sugar or calories, there are options that deliver both flavour and assist in your fitness goals.
Whether you're hitting the gym, recovering after a workout, or just need a quick, healthy snack, the right protein bar can help keep you on track without derailing your diet.
What makes a protein bar low-calorie?
Low-calorie protein bars typically contain fewer than 200 calories per serving, with an emphasis on high-quality protein sources and minimal sugar.
They’re designed to satisfy hunger while providing a boost of energy, making them a perfect snack or post-workout refuel. But, just because they’re low in calories doesn’t mean the taste should suffer.
Why choose low-calorie protein bars?
The benefits of low-calorie protein bars go beyond just keeping your calorie count in check. Protein is essential for muscle recovery, tissue repair and satiety, helping you stay fuller for longer.
A well-balanced protein bar can give you that needed protein boost without leaving you feeling sluggish or bloated.
For those who are health-conscious or simply looking to maintain their fitness goals, choosing low-calorie options is a smart way to get the nutrients you need while avoiding extra calories or sugar that might derail progress.
Are low-calorie protein bars any good?
Gone are the days when low-calorie protein bars tasted like cardboard. Many brands have invested in improving the texture, taste and overall quality of their bars.
These bars are made to pack in protein while cutting back on the unwanted extras, so you can enjoy a snack that is as satisfying as it is nutritious.
Whether you're following a low-carb, low-sugar or calorie-controlled diet, there are plenty of options on the market that cater to various preferences and dietary needs. What's more, they come in an exciting range of flavours to ensure you never get bored of your snacks.
Best low-calorie protein bars at a glance:
Find out more below
Barebells Soft Protein Bar Caramel Choco
If you want a low-calorie protein bar that actually tastes like a treat, Barebells Soft Protein Bar in Caramel Choco should be your go-to. With 204 calories and 16g of protein, it satisfies sweet cravings without any guilt.
The texture is soft, chewy and draped in a rich chocolate coating, with a gooey caramel centre that feels more indulgent than most healthy snacks.
Buy now £2.69, Holland & Barrett
ESN Designer Protein Bar
The ESN Designer Protein Bar in Fudge Brownie has quickly become one of my favourite treats for a protein hit without the compromise.
With up to 14g of protein per bar and no added sugars, the various flavours are ideal for curbing cravings or fuelling up post-workout. The texture is smooth, the flavours are indulgent, and it doesn’t leave that chalky aftertaste so many bars do.
Buy now £19.99, Amazon
Grenade Protein Bar - Oreo
Grenade’s best flavour in my opinion is the Oreo Protein Bar which practically tastes like a biscuit.
Packed with a decent 21g of protein and low in sugar, it’s everything you love about the biscuit but in a bar that works with your goals; not against them. It contains biscuit pieces, creamy layers and a chocolatey crunch that makes indulging in the oreo goodness feel like a treat rather than a compromise.
Buy now £9.50, Boots
Lucid - Cookie Dough Move Bar
This is a bar for those following plant-based diets who need a sweet protein hit. With 15g of protein and just 187 calories, Lucid offers the perfect balance between indulgence and practicality. The texture is soft and satisfying, and offers a delicious cookie dough hit with none of the aftertaste you get with some protein bars.
Buy now £3.19, Plant X
Efectiv Nutrition Milky Chocolate Gooey Bars
At 200 calories and packing 20g of protein, the Milky Chocolate Gooey Bars feel like you’re eating a chocolate bar.
The gooey centre and soft, milky chocolate coating make it far more indulgent than your average protein snack; there’s no dry, cardboard texture here. It’s perfect for post-gym recovery or those moments when you’re reaching for something sweet but don’t want the sugar crash. It’s one of the few bars that tastes as good as it sounds.
Buy now £1.83, Amazon
Warrior Crunch Protein Bars
Stash the Warrior Crunch Protein Bar in your gym bag for when you need a crunchy, satisfying snack. With 22g of protein and only 230 calories per bar, it will keep you full and satisfied without packing in loads of extra calories into your diet.
The crunchiness makes it feel indulgent, and the chocolate coating adds a nice touch of sweetness without being overpowering.
Buy now £19.99, Amazon
Bulk Macro Munch Protein Bar
Whether you’re after a treat or something to keep you going, Macro Munch Protein Bars are the elite.
Bulk has always offered one of my favourite protein snacks. With a solid 23g of protein and just 240 calories per bar, it's a great option for anyone looking to refuel after a workout or when hunger strikes between meals.
What I love about this bar is the texture, it's got the perfect balance of chewy and crunchy, and the chocolate coating feels indulgent without being too sweet. It's not overly dense like some protein bars can be, and the flavour really stands out.
Buy now £22.39, Bulk
The Fast 800 Peanut Caramel Protein Bar
These Peanut Caramel Protein Bars are made from all-natural ingredients, packed with 14g of protein and 9.2g of fibre. Each 45g bar is high in protein and fibre, low in carbohydrates, and contains no added sugar or artificial ingredients.
Plus, they’re made with all-natural ingredients and are suitable for both vegetarians and vegans.
Buy now £26.99, The Fast 800
Verdict
When it comes to protein bars, I've had some highs and lows over the years and tried more brands than I can count, but the Barebells Soft Protein Bar Caramel Choco stands out.
At 204 calories and 16g of protein, it feels like an actual treat rather than a quick protein hit. The chocolate coating and caramel make it seem like a sweet treat while the soft, chewy texture doesn’t taste like it belongs in the gym bag.
Whether it is the Caramel Choco flavour, or one of my other favourites like Cookies and Cream, Barebells is worth a permanent spot in your post-workout snack selection.
