The moment you take a bite of Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars, a wave of indulgence crashes over you. Picture this: rich, velvety dark chocolate mingling with crunchy nuts, all topped with a sprinkle of sea salt that dances on your tongue. It’s like a symphony of flavors playing in perfect harmony. These bars are not just snacks; they are an experience, one that begs to be shared with friends at parties or devoured solo while binge-watching your favorite series.
I remember the first time I made these nut bars. I was trying to impress my friends at a gathering, and let’s just say my cooking skills were more ‘experimental’ than ‘expert.’ With these bars, however, I struck gold. They vanished faster than free samples at Costco! Perfect for a movie night or as an afternoon pick-me-up, these delectable treats will keep you coming back for more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are quick to whip up, making them perfect for last-minute cravings.
- Your taste buds will revel in the rich chocolate flavor balanced by a hint of saltiness.
- The beautiful mix of colors and textures makes them eye-catching and irresistible.
- Enjoy them as a healthy snack or decadent dessert – the choice is yours!
Ingredients for Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Dark Chocolate: Aim for at least 70% cocoa for intense flavor; it melts beautifully and adds richness.
Mixed Nuts: A combination of almonds, walnuts, and pecans works well; choose unsalted for better control over the saltiness.
Rolled Oats: Use old-fashioned oats for texture; they help bind everything together while adding heartiness.
Maple Syrup: This natural sweetener adds depth and keeps the bars moist without being overly sugary.
Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances the flavor profile; opt for pure vanilla for the best results.
Sea Salt: Flaky sea salt is perfect for topping; it elevates the flavor and provides that satisfying crunch.
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 Workspace
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper so you can easily lift out your delicious creation later.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt your dark chocolate in increments of 30 seconds, stirring after each interval until smooth. Be patient! You don’t want burnt chocolate ruining your masterpiece.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine rolled oats and mixed nuts. Feel free to get creative here; add coconut flakes or chia seeds if you’re feeling adventurous!
Step 4: Combine Everything
Pour the melted chocolate into your dry mixture along with maple syrup and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well coated—this should feel like an arm workout!
Step 5: Pour into Baking Dish
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Press it down firmly using a spatula or even your hands (just be careful not to burn yourself).
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes until slightly set but still soft in the center. Remove from oven, sprinkle with sea salt while it’s warm, then let cool completely before slicing.
Transfer to plates or wrap individually as snacks on-the-go; trust me, you’ll want to share these nut bars they’re that good!
You Must Know
- These delightful dark chocolate and sea salt nut bars are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a fantastic snack option for busy days.
- Packed with protein and healthy fats, they keep you energized while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by melting dark chocolate until it’s smooth. Next, mix in your choice of nuts and seeds before pouring the mixture into a lined baking dish. Finally, sprinkle sea salt on top to elevate the flavors before chilling until set.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize these nut bars by using different nuts like almonds or cashews, or swapping in dried fruits for additional sweetness. You can also experiment with adding spices like cinnamon or vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store your dark chocolate and sea salt nut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge. There’s no need to reheat; just enjoy them straight from the fridge!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve a smooth chocolate consistency, use a double boiler instead of direct heat.
- Chopping nuts uniformly ensures even distribution throughout the bars.
- Always let the mixture cool slightly before pouring it into the baking dish for better texture.
I once made these dark chocolate and sea salt nut bars for a friend’s birthday party, and let’s just say they disappeared faster than I could say “seconds, please!” Everyone was asking for the recipe—definitely a win in my book!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars?
To make Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars, you will need a variety of nuts such as almonds, walnuts, and pecans. Additionally, gather some rolled oats, honey or maple syrup for sweetness, and dark chocolate chips. A sprinkle of sea salt will enhance the flavors. Feel free to add dried fruits or seeds for extra texture. These ingredients combine to create a deliciously chewy and crunchy treat that’s perfect for snacking.
How long do Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars last?
When stored properly, Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars can last up to two weeks at room temperature. To extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them; they will stay fresh for about a month. For longer storage, consider freezing the bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. This makes them an excellent grab-and-go snack option whenever hunger strikes.
Can I customize my Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars?
Absolutely! The beauty of Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars lies in their versatility. You can customize the recipe by choosing your favorite nuts, swapping out dark chocolate for milk chocolate, or adding flavors like vanilla or cinnamon. Incorporating different seeds or dried fruits can also enhance nutrition while offering new taste experiences. Experimenting with ingredients allows you to create a nut bar tailored just for you.
Are Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars healthy?
Yes! Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are generally considered a healthy snack option, especially when made with whole ingredients. Nuts provide healthy fats, protein, and fiber, while dark chocolate offers antioxidants. By controlling the amount of sweetener used in the recipe, you can keep sugar levels in check. Enjoy these bars as part of a balanced diet; they’re great for satisfying cravings without guilt.
Conclusion for Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars :
In summary, Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are a delightful treat that combines health benefits with rich flavors. With easily customizable ingredients, these bars provide a nutritious snack option that satisfies sweet cravings without compromising on taste. Their simple preparation makes them perfect for busy lifestyles while remaining deliciously versatile. Whether enjoyed at home or on-the-go, these nut bars are sure to become a favorite!
Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are a deliciously indulgent yet healthy snack that marries the rich flavor of dark chocolate with crunchy mixed nuts and a hint of sea salt. Perfect for satisfying cravings during movie nights or as a quick pick-me-up, these bars are easy to prepare and will surely impress friends and family. Packed with nutrients and energy, they make for an excellent guilt-free treat!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)
- 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Melt dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine rolled oats and mixed nuts.
- Pour the melted chocolate into the dry mixture along with maple syrup and vanilla extract; stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, pressing down firmly.
- Bake for about 20 minutes until slightly set but still soft in the center. Sprinkle with sea salt while warm, then let cool completely before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (40g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Customize your nut bars by adding dried fruits or seeds for extra nutrition. For even texture, chop nuts uniformly before mixing.
