Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are the ultimate snack that combines rich chocolate with a delightful crunch. Picture biting into a chewy bar, where the sweetness of dark chocolate meets the savory touch of sea salt—it’s a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing.
Every time I make these bars, I’m reminded of lazy Sunday afternoons spent experimenting in the kitchen. The comforting aroma of melting chocolate fills my home, bringing back memories of family gatherings and friends stopping by for a sweet treat. These nut bars are not only delicious but perfect for any occasion, whether you need an energy boost before yoga or a satisfying dessert after dinner.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are incredibly easy to whip up, making them ideal for busy days.
- The combination of flavors creates an irresistible treat that looks as good as it tastes.
- You can easily modify the nuts used based on your preferences or what you have at hand.
- Perfect for a mid-afternoon snack or as a healthy dessert option!
Ingredients for Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Mixed Nuts: A blend of almonds, walnuts, and cashews works great; choose unsalted for better control over flavor.
Rolled Oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for texture; they help bind the bars while adding fiber.
Dark Chocolate Chips: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher) to maximize flavor.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Acts as both sweetener and binder; choose pure options for the best taste.
Sea Salt: Flaky sea salt enhances the chocolate’s flavor; sprinkle generously on top before baking.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your mixed nuts and rolled oats. Stir well so that all nuts get coated with those lovely oats.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth. Be careful not to burn it—nobody likes charred chocolate!
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix honey or maple syrup with melted chocolate until fully combined. This gooey mixture will hold everything together beautifully.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated. The mixture should feel sticky yet manageable—like trying to explain TikTok trends to your parents.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking pan. Press it down firmly with a spatula so it holds its shape during baking. Sprinkle sea salt on top before placing it in the oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown around the edges.
Allow it to cool completely before lifting out using parchment paper overhang and cutting into squares or bars.
These Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are not just treats; they’re mood-lifters! Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or store them in an airtight container—if they last long enough!
You Must Know
- These delightful Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are not just a treat for your taste buds; they make snacking feel like a gourmet experience.
- Packed with wholesome nuts and drizzled with rich chocolate, they are perfect for anytime cravings or a post-workout pick-me-up.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing your nut mixture in a large bowl while melting dark chocolate over low heat. Once melted, combine everything, spread it into a pan, and let it cool until set for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out nuts based on your favorites or add some dried fruit for a chewy surprise. Experiment with different types of chocolate or even throw in some spices like cinnamon for an unexpected twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store your nut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want them chilled, keep them in the fridge to maintain their firmness and freshness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor; it makes all the difference in this recipe.
- Toasting nuts before mixing adds depth and enhances their natural flavors.
- Make sure to let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure clean edges.
Sometimes, I whip these up when friends come over, and they disappear faster than my attempts at keeping houseplants alive! Everyone loves them—even those who claim they’re “not into healthy snacks.”
FAQs :
What are Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars?
Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are nutritious snacks made from a blend of nuts, seeds, and dark chocolate. They provide a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. The combination of healthy ingredients like almonds, walnuts, and chia seeds makes these bars a great source of protein and healthy fats. Enjoy them as an energy-boosting snack or a delicious treat!
How can I store Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars?
To keep your Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them for up to two weeks or freezing them for up to three months. Make sure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Can I customize the ingredients in Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars?
Absolutely! You can easily customize your Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars by adding different nuts, seeds, or dried fruits based on your preferences. For instance, you can substitute cashews for almonds or add dried cranberries for extra sweetness. Just ensure that the ratios remain similar for the best texture.
Are Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars healthy?
Yes, Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are considered healthy snacks when made with quality ingredients. They contain antioxidants from dark chocolate, along with vitamins and minerals from various nuts. The healthy fats found in nuts also help keep you full longer. However, moderation is key due to their calorie density.
Conclusion for Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars :
Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars offer a delightful blend of taste and nutrition. By using wholesome ingredients like nuts and dark chocolate, these bars serve as a healthy snack option perfect for any time of day. With easy storage tips and customization options available, you can enjoy these nut bars tailored to your preferences. Whether you make them for yourself or share them with friends, they are sure to impress!
Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are a delicious blend of crunchy mixed nuts, hearty rolled oats, and rich dark chocolate, all enhanced by a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. These bars are not only easy to make but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Perfect as a quick snack or a satisfying dessert, they provide an indulgent yet healthy option for any time of the day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 12 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed nuts (unsalted almonds, walnuts, cashews)
- 1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned)
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cacao or higher)
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix together the mixed nuts and rolled oats until well combined.
- Melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
- Combine the honey or maple syrup with the melted chocolate until fully blended.
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, pressing down firmly. Sprinkle with sea salt, then bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow cooling completely before lifting out and cutting into bars.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (40g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Feel free to substitute different nuts based on your preferences or add dried fruits like cranberries for extra sweetness. Toasting the nuts before mixing enhances their flavor.
