Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars

Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are the ultimate snack for any occasion. These delicious bars blend rich dark chocolate with a sprinkle of sea salt, making them irresistibly tasty. They are quick to prepare, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish, and are perfect for busy mornings or afternoon cravings. Plus, you can easily customize them based on your favorite nuts and add-ins.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: You can whip up these bars in just 30 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute snack.
• Customizable: Feel free to substitute your favorite nuts or include dried fruits for added flavor and texture.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nuts and oats, these bars provide nutrients without compromising on taste.
• Perfect Balance of Flavors: The combination of sweet dark chocolate and savory sea salt creates a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch at the beginning of the week for grab-and-go snacks that last up to one week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Baking dish (8×8 inches)
• Parchment paper
• Spatula or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all your ingredients thoroughly.
• Baking dish: Using an 8×8-inch baking dish allows the bars to cook evenly and makes cutting easier.
• Parchment paper: Lining your baking dish with parchment paper prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of the bars once cooled.

Ingredients

For the Nut Base

• 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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until the mixture is smooth.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed nuts, rolled oats, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and half of the melted chocolate. Stir until everything is well coated.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Press the mixture firmly into the lined baking pan. Drizzle with the remaining melted chocolate over the top.

Step 5: Bake

Place in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Sprinkle extra sea salt on top while warm.

Step 6: Cool and Cut

Allow cooling completely before lifting out of the pan. Once cooled, cut into squares or bars for serving.

Enjoy your delicious Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars as a nutritious snack anytime!

How to Serve Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars

These Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether as a quick snack, a breakfast option, or a dessert, serving them creatively can enhance your experience.

As a Breakfast Option

• Pair with yogurt: Crumble the bars over Greek yogurt for added crunch and flavor.
• Serve with fruit: Enjoy alongside fresh berries or sliced bananas to balance sweetness.

As an Afternoon Snack

• Accompany with nut butter: Spread almond or peanut butter on top for extra protein and flavor.
• Enjoy with a hot drink: They pair perfectly with coffee or herbal tea, providing a delightful contrast.

For Dessert

• Top with ice cream: Serve warm bars over vanilla or coconut ice cream for a decadent treat.
• Drizzle with caramel sauce: Add a drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel for an indulgent finish.

How to Perfect Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars

To make your Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars even better, consider these helpful tips. They will help you achieve the best taste and texture.

• Toast the nuts: Lightly toasting mixed nuts enhances their flavor profile, adding richness to every bite.
• Use high-quality chocolate: Opt for dark chocolate chips that are at least 70% cocoa for a rich, deep flavor.
• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to add dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for additional sweetness and texture.
• Adjust sweetness: Modify the amount of honey or maple syrup based on your taste preferences for the perfect balance.
• Let them cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool fully ensures they hold their shape when cut.

Best Side Dishes for Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars

Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars can be complemented beautifully by various side dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside them.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the bars.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a satisfying combination.
3. Nut Butter Dip: A creamy nut butter dip pairs well, providing an extra layer of flavor.
4. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for contrast in texture and taste.
5. Chia Seed Pudding: Creamy chia pudding offers a nutritious side that complements the bars’ sweetness.
6. Herbal Tea Selection: Various herbal teas can cleanse the palate while enhancing your snack experience.
7. Granola Bowl: A bowl of crunchy granola adds texture and pairs well with the nutty flavors of the bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final result.

• Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining your baking dish can make it difficult to remove the bars. Always use parchment paper to ensure easy lifting.
• Overheating the chocolate: Melting chocolate too quickly can cause it to seize. Use a microwave in short bursts or melt it gently on the stovetop.
• Not measuring ingredients: Accurate measurements are key for balanced flavors and texture. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Ignoring nut preferences: Using stale or low-quality nuts can ruin the taste. Always choose fresh nuts for the best flavor and crunch.
• Cutting too soon: Slicing the bars before they cool completely may lead to crumbling. Wait until they are fully cooled for clean cuts.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Keep in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.

Freezing Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), wrap bars in foil, and heat for 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individually on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars.

Can I use other nuts for Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with your favorite nuts such as walnuts or macadamia nuts according to your taste preferences.

How do I make these nut bars vegan?

To make Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars vegan, simply replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.

What is the best way to store Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I add dried fruits to my nut bars?

Absolutely! Adding dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or apricots can enhance flavor and texture.

How do I know when my nut bars are done baking?

Look for a golden-brown color on top; they should be firm but slightly soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.

Final Thoughts

Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are not just delicious; they are also versatile! You can customize them with various nuts or add-ins like seeds or dried fruits. These bars serve as a fantastic snack option that satisfies both sweet and salty cravings. Try making them today!