The classic Cookies 'N Cream Built Bar offers a satisfyingly chewy nougat texture wrapped in a dark chocolate coating, while the newer Puff version provides a lighter, marshmallow-like experience. Despite the different textures, both variations share several core ingredients but also have distinct components that define their final product. Understanding these ingredients is key to knowing what you're consuming.
The Classic Built Bar: Cookies 'N Cream Ingredients
The original Cookies 'N Cream Built Bar features a concise list of ingredients designed to deliver high protein and fiber with low sugar. The primary components focus on the protein base, the dark chocolate coating, and the specific agents that create its signature chewy texture.
Core Ingredients
- Protein Blend: This consists of Whey Protein Isolate and Partially Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate. The hydrolyzed version is partially broken down, making it more easily and rapidly absorbed by the body. Whey protein is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids needed for muscle repair and growth.
- Water: Used to create the moist, chewy nougat texture that is characteristic of Built Bars.
- Dark Chocolate: This covers the nougat core and is made from sugar, chocolate liquor, cocoa butter, milkfat, soy lecithin, and vanilla. The soy lecithin acts as an emulsifier, binding ingredients for a smoother texture and longer shelf life.
- Digestion Resistant Maltodextrin: A type of non-digestible fiber sourced from corn or wheat that adds bulk and increases satiety without adding calories or carbs.
- Glycerin: A plant-derived sugar alcohol that acts as a preservative and helps the bar retain moisture, contributing to its soft consistency.
- Erythritol: A low-calorie sugar alcohol used as a sweetener that doesn't affect blood sugar levels.
- Gelatin: An animal-derived protein that provides moisture and helps with the bar's overall texture. This is a key ingredient that makes the bar unsuitable for vegans.
- Natural Flavors: A proprietary blend derived from plant or animal sources to achieve the classic cookie flavor.
- Citric Acid: A preservative and flavoring agent derived from citrus fruits.
- Cocoa Powder: Adds a rich cocoa flavor to the core of the bar.
- Nonfat Dry Milk or Cultured Dextrose: These are milk-derived ingredients that contribute to the cream flavor and act as a preservative.
The Cookies 'N Cream Built Puff Ingredients
The Puff version offers a different texture and slightly different macro profile, which is reflected in its ingredient list. It replaces the classic nougat center with a marshmallow-like core.
Core Ingredients
- Premium Collagen Protein Blend: This blend features Partially Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate and Collagen peptides. Collagen provides benefits for skin, hair, and joint health, while the whey protein supports muscle recovery.
- Glycerin, Sugar, Water, Palm Kernel Oil: These components form the base of the marshmallow-like puff interior. Palm kernel oil is used in the coating to prevent melting at room temperature.
- Gelatin: Creates the signature fluffy, airy texture of the Puff bar.
- Cookie Bits: Made from wheat flour, sugar, palm oil, cocoa processed with alkali, salt, and sodium bicarbonate, these bits are dispersed in the coating and add a crunchy texture.
- Nonfat Dry Milk, Natural Flavors, Cocoa, Soy Lecithin: These work together to create the creamy, chocolatey flavor and texture of the bar.
Classic Built Bar vs. Built Puff Cookies 'N Cream
| Feature | Classic Cookies 'N Cream Built Bar | Cookies 'N Cream Built Puff Bar |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Chewy, dense nougat | Light, fluffy, marshmallow-like center |
| Protein Source | Whey Protein Isolate, Partially Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate | Whey Protein Isolate, Collagen Peptides |
| Coating | Dark chocolate | White chocolate-like coating with real cookie bits |
| Net Carbs | Approximately 4g net carbs | Approximately 6g sugar, some of which are not net carbs |
| Fiber | Contains Digestion Resistant Maltodextrin, around 6g fiber | Less fiber, focuses on the marshmallow texture |
| Allergens | Milk, Soy | Milk, Soy, Wheat |
| Calories | 130 Calories | 150 Calories |
Nutritional Considerations and Health Context
Both the Classic and Puff versions of the Cookies 'N Cream Built Bar are designed to be high in protein and low in sugar compared to traditional candy bars. However, a key distinction to make is that they are highly processed foods, relying on engineered ingredients to achieve their macro-nutrient profile and desired taste.
Processed Ingredients: Ingredients like Partially Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate, Maltodextrin, Soy Lecithin, and Erythritol are refined and not 'whole food' ingredients. While generally recognized as safe by the FDA, they are not without potential downsides. For example, Erythritol, a sugar alcohol, can cause digestive upset like gas, bloating, and diarrhea in sensitive individuals. Digestion Resistant Maltodextrin might also cause mild GI issues for some, and has been linked with certain autoimmune concerns, though more research is needed.
Sweeteners: Built Bars rely on sugar alcohols and low added sugar content to keep calories down. The use of sweeteners can influence a person's palate and potentially lead to continued cravings for sweet foods.
Dietary Restrictions: It is crucial to note that both bars contain dairy (whey protein, milkfat) and gelatin (animal product), making them unsuitable for vegan diets. The Puff version also contains wheat, so it is not gluten-free, unlike the Classic bar. Both contain soy. Individuals with severe allergies should be cautious, as some products may be processed on shared equipment with peanuts and tree nuts.
Conclusion: Is it the right snack for you?
The Built Bar Cookies and Cream, in both its classic and puff forms, is a high-protein, low-sugar snack that can fit into a variety of fitness-focused diets. The exact ingredients in Built Bar cookies and cream differ between the chewy original and the airy puff, largely around the specific protein blend and the inclusion of cookie bits. While they serve as a convenient protein boost, particularly for post-workout recovery or curbing a sweet craving, they are not a 'whole food' and contain processed ingredients that may not be suitable for everyone. For those seeking a less processed option, homemade protein snacks or other whole-food alternatives may be a better choice. For those aware of the ingredients and potential sensitivities, the Built Bar provides a delicious and convenient way to increase protein intake. You can explore more flavors and purchase options on the Built Bar official site.
