These Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors, perfect for a midday snack or a post-workout treat. Imagine sinking your teeth into a chewy bar packed with crunchy nuts, smooth dark chocolate, and just a hint of sea salt. It’s hard to resist! Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, and you probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry already. Let’s dive into how to make these delicious bars at home.
What You’ll Need for Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
Gather the following ingredients to create your tasty nut bars:
- 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa)
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for topping)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
How to Make Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
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Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden finish.
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Prepare the Baking Dish: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This will ensure your bars come out easily after baking.
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Melt the Chocolate and Coconut Oil: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat them in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth and fully melted.
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Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed nuts, rolled oats, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and half of the melted chocolate. Stir everything together until well coated.
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Shape the Mixture: Press the nut mixture firmly into the prepared baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly packed so your bars hold together beautifully.
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Drizzle with Chocolate: Pour the remaining melted chocolate over the mixture in the pan, spreading it evenly.
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Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bars are golden brown.
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Add Sea Salt: As soon as you take the pan out of the oven, sprinkle a little extra sea salt on top while the bars are still warm.
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Cool and Cut: Allow the nut bars to cool completely before lifting them out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and enjoy!
How to Serve Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
These nut bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions:
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Snack Time: Perfect for a quick grab-and-go snack, these bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
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Breakfast Boost: Crumble a bar over your morning yogurt or oatmeal for added crunch and sweetness.
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Sweet Treat: Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a satisfying treat any time of the day.
Expert Tips for Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
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Customize Your Nuts: Feel free to use any combination of nuts that you enjoy. Try adding walnuts or pistachios for a unique twist!
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Vegan Option: For a completely plant-based option, ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free and substitute honey with maple syrup.
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Store Properly: Keep your bars in an airtight container in a cool place. You can also refrigerate them if you prefer a firmer texture.
Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars FAQs
Q: Can I use different sweeteners besides honey or maple syrup?
A: Yes! Agave syrup or even brown rice syrup can work as alternatives.
Q: How do I make these nut bars nut-free?
A: Replace the nuts with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a nut-free version!
Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! They can be made a few days in advance and stored in an airtight container.
These Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are sure to impress your taste buds! Sweet, salty, and packed with nutrients, they make for a great snack or dessert. So grab your ingredients and try making these homemade bars—you won’t regret it!