Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are not just a snack; they are an experience. Imagine biting into a chewy, nut-filled bar that combines the rich bitterness of dark chocolate with a delightful crunch, all topped off with a sprinkle of sea salt. The flavors dance on your palate like a well-rehearsed ballet, making every bite absolutely irresistible.
These bars bring back memories of my childhood, where I would raid the kitchen for something sweet after school. They are perfect for lunchboxes, post-workout snacks, or even as a midnight treat when the cookie jar is empty and the chocolate cravings hit hard. Trust me, you’ll be counting down the minutes until you can sink your teeth into one of these delicious bars.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars take minimal effort to whip up, making them perfect for busy days.
- The rich flavor profile balances sweet and salty notes that will leave your taste buds craving more.
- With their beautiful presentation, these bars make an elegant addition to any gathering or picnic.
- They’re incredibly versatile, allowing you to mix and match nuts based on your preference or what you have at home.
Ingredients for Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Mixed Nuts: Choose your favorite nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans for a crunchy texture.
Pitted Dates: These natural sweeteners help bind the bars together while adding a delicious caramel-like flavor.
Dark Chocolate Chips: Opt for chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a rich taste that pairs beautifully with sea salt.
Sea Salt: A sprinkle on top enhances the flavors, creating that perfect salty-sweet contrast.
Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to the flavor profile; pure vanilla extract is best if you want to impress.
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: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients before starting. It helps to have everything laid out so you can work efficiently without interruptions.
Step 2: Blend the Base
In a food processor, combine mixed nuts and pitted dates. Pulse until finely chopped but not completely ground—think chunky monkey but in nut form!
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, melt your dark chocolate chips until smooth. Stir frequently to avoid burning; nobody wants scorched chocolate ruining our fun!
Step 4: Combine Everything
Take the blended nut-date mixture and mix it with melted chocolate and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Ensure everything is well combined—this is where magic happens!
Step 5: Press into Pan
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Pour your mixture into it and press down firmly using another piece of parchment paper or your hands for an even layer.
Step 6: Chill and Cut
Refrigerate for about two hours until firm. Once set, remove from the pan, cut into bars, and sprinkle with sea salt for that finishing touch.
Transfer to plates and enjoy these delectable Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars as an afternoon pick-me-up or share them during movie night!
You Must Know
- These Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make.
- They are perfect for a quick snack, a post-workout boost, or even as a sweet treat during movie night.
- With their rich flavors and satisfying crunch, you’ll want to keep them on hand at all times.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that warms up, mix your nuts and chocolate in a bowl. Then, melt the coconut oil and honey together before combining everything. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake until golden.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out nuts based on your preference—almonds, walnuts, or pecans all work beautifully. You can also add dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for an extra zing or switch the dark chocolate for milk chocolate if you’re feeling adventurous.
Storing & Reheating
Store your nut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them. Reheating isn’t necessary; just grab one whenever you need a tasty snack!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh nuts for the best flavor and crunch.
- Ensure your mixture is well combined to avoid uneven bars.
- Let them cool completely before cutting to keep them from falling apart.
I remember the first time I made these Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars for my friends. They devoured every last crumb and insisted I start selling them at local markets! It was such a fun moment that made me realize how much joy food can bring.
FAQs:
What are Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars?
Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are delicious, nutritious snacks made from a blend of nuts, seeds, oats, and dark chocolate. These bars balance sweetness with a hint of saltiness, making them an ideal treat for any time of the day. Packed with healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants, they provide an energy boost and satisfy your cravings without the guilt.
How do I store Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars?
To maintain freshness, store your Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars in an airtight container. Place them in a cool, dry place or refrigerate them for extended shelf life. If you’re making a large batch, consider wrapping individual bars in parchment paper to keep them fresh and easy to grab when you’re on the go.
Can I customize my Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars?
Absolutely! You can customize your Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars by adding various ingredients. Consider incorporating dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for added sweetness. You can also switch up the nuts or use different types of seeds to create unique flavors while still keeping the base recipe intact.
Are Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars healthy?
Yes, Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are considered healthy snacks when consumed in moderation. They contain wholesome ingredients like nuts and dark chocolate that provide essential nutrients. The combination of protein, healthy fats, and fiber helps keep you full longer while satisfying your sweet tooth without excessive sugar.
Conclusion for Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars:
Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars offer a perfect blend of flavor and nutrition. With simple ingredients that you can easily customize, these bars serve as an ideal snack for various occasions. Storing them properly ensures they remain fresh for longer periods. Enjoy these tasty treats as part of a balanced diet, knowing they provide health benefits along with their deliciousness!
Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
Indulge in the delightful experience of Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars. These chewy, nutty snacks combine the rich bitterness of dark chocolate with a satisfying crunch, all enhanced by a sprinkle of sea salt. Perfect for lunchboxes, post-workout munchies, or even late-night cravings, these bars are easy to make and incredibly versatile. With each bite, you’ll enjoy a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: No bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
- 1 cup pitted dates
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa)
- 1/2 tsp sea salt (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients.
- In a food processor, pulse mixed nuts and pitted dates until finely chopped but still chunky.
- Melt dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler until smooth.
- Combine the nut-date mixture with melted chocolate and vanilla in a large bowl; mix well.
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and pour in the mixture. Press down firmly to create an even layer.
- Refrigerate for about two hours until firm. Once set, cut into bars and sprinkle with additional sea salt.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Customize by swapping different nuts or adding dried fruits like cranberries for extra flavor. Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
