The moment you bite into a Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bar, you’re met with the rich, velvety chocolate that melts in your mouth, perfectly balanced by the crunch of mixed nuts and a surprising hint of salt. Each bar is a delightful symphony of flavors and textures, making it impossible to stop at just one. Imagine this treat as an energy boost during a long afternoon or a sweet ending to your day—perfect for any occasion!
I still remember the first time I made these bars for a family gathering. The joy on my relatives’ faces when they took their first bite was priceless! These bars have become my go-to recipe for potlucks and movie nights. With their irresistible combination of sweetness and saltiness, I promise you’ll be dreaming about them long after the last crumb disappears.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are easy to prepare, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without guilt
- Their beautiful layers make for an eye-catching treat for any gathering
- You can easily customize the nuts to suit your taste preferences
- They are ideal as a snack, dessert, or energy booster on the go
I served these bars at a recent family reunion, and everyone was raving about them!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Mixed Nuts: A blend of almonds, walnuts, and cashews gives these bars fantastic texture and flavor.
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Dark Chocolate Chips: Use high-quality dark chocolate for rich flavor; aim for at least 70% cocoa content.
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Honey or Maple Syrup: This natural sweetener helps bind everything together while adding subtle sweetness.
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Sea Salt: Flaky sea salt enhances the chocolate’s richness; sprinkle generously for that perfect balance.
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Oats: Rolled oats provide fiber and bulk; they also help hold everything together beautifully.
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Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the flavor profile; use pure extract for the best results.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Start by preparing your baking pan: Line an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring it hangs over the edges for easy removal later.
Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine oats and mixed nuts until well mixed; this will create a hearty base.
Melt chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals until smooth; stir between intervals to prevent burning.
Add wet ingredients: Stir honey or maple syrup and vanilla extract into melted chocolate until completely combined; this creates that gooey goodness we crave.
Mix it all together: Pour chocolate mixture over the oat-nut blend; mix thoroughly until every nut is coated in deliciousness.
Spread into pan: Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish and press down firmly using a spatula; this ensures they hold their shape when cut.
Chill before serving: Refrigerate for at least two hours to set properly; patience is key here as it enhances the flavors beautifully.
Slice and enjoy: Once chilled, lift out using parchment edges, slice into bars, and sprinkle with sea salt before serving.
These steps lead you to an irresistible treat that’s sure to impress anyone who gets their hands on one!
You Must Know
- Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are a delightful, nutritious treat
- They pack a punch of flavor and energy, making them perfect for busy days
- The combination of dark chocolate and sea salt creates a satisfying balance that is simply irresistible
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by roasting the nuts to enhance their flavor, then melt the chocolate gently before mixing everything together. This ensures a well-combined mixture with that perfect glossy finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out nuts based on preference or dietary needs. You can also add dried fruits or seeds for an extra crunch or chewiness.
Storing & Reheating
Store your nut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, refrigerate them to maintain freshness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for rich flavor; it makes all the difference in these nut bars
- Ensure the nuts are evenly roasted for maximum taste and crunch
- Let the mixture cool slightly before cutting to avoid crumbling
The first time I made these Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars, my friends devoured them in minutes, leaving me wondering if I should have made a double batch!
FAQ
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but keep in mind it will change the flavor profile significantly.
How long do these nut bars last?
They last up to two weeks at room temperature in an airtight container.
What nuts work best in this recipe?
Almonds, walnuts, and pecans are excellent choices for flavor and texture.
Irresistible Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich, velvety goodness of Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars. These delectable treats combine crunchy mixed nuts, creamy dark chocolate, and a hint of flaky sea salt for a perfect balance of flavors. Easy to make and customizable, they are ideal for snacks, desserts, or an energy boost anytime. Whether for a family gathering or a cozy movie night, these bars are sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews)
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp sea salt (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix oats and nuts until combined.
- Melt dark chocolate chips in intervals in the microwave until smooth.
- Stir in honey or maple syrup and vanilla extract into the melted chocolate until well blended.
- Pour the chocolate mixture over the oat-nut blend and mix thoroughly.
- Press the mixture firmly into the prepared baking dish.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars and sprinkling with sea salt.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
