Name: Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups unsalted nuts of choice (e.g., cashews, peanuts, almonds); 1/2 cup puffed rice; 1/4 cup brown rice syrup; 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 2 teaspoons coconut oil; Optional: flaky salt for topping

Why Make This Recipe

Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are a delightful snack that balances sweetness, crunch, and a touch of salty goodness. They are perfect for a quick energy boost, as a post-workout snack, or simply as a tasty treat any time of day. Packed with healthy nuts and sweetened naturally, these bars are nutritious and satisfying. Plus, they’re simple to make at home, which means you can avoid unnecessary preservatives found in store-bought bars.

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How to Make Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups unsalted nuts of choice (we use 3/4 cup cashews, 3/4 cup peanuts, and 1 cup almonds)
1/2 cup puffed rice
1/4 cup brown rice syrup
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1 cup dark chocolate chips
2 teaspoons coconut oil
Optional: flaky salt for topping

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325˚F (160˚C).
Spread the nuts in a single layer on a rimmed sheet pan and bake for 5-8 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned.
Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper and set it aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the nuts and puffed rice. Toss to mix them well.
In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the brown rice syrup in the microwave for 30 seconds. This makes it easier to work with.
Whisk in the vanilla extract and sea salt until everything is combined, then pour this mixture over the nuts and rice. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer the nut mixture to the prepared pan and press it into a flat, even layer.
Bake for 18-20 minutes. Once done, let it cool for about 30 minutes, then move it to a cutting board. Cut it in half lengthwise, then slice each half into 5-6 thin bars. Allow to cool completely.
To melt the chocolate, add chocolate chips and coconut oil to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well in between, until fully melted.
Dip the bottom of each bar into the melted chocolate and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Drizzle the top of each bar with more melted chocolate and sprinkle with flaky salt. Refrigerate until the chocolate is set, and then enjoy!

How to Serve Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars

These nut bars can be enjoyed on their own as a convenient snack or served alongside a cup of tea or coffee. They also make a great addition to lunch boxes for kids and adults alike. You can cut them into smaller pieces for sharing at gatherings or keep them whole for easy snacking on the go.

How to Store Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars

Store the nut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them, where they can stay fresh for up to two weeks. Just let them come to room temperature before enjoying for the best taste and texture.

Tips to Make Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars

Feel free to mix and match your favorite nuts to suit your taste.
Make sure to press the nut mixture firmly into the pan for the best texture.
If you prefer a sweeter bar, you can add a bit of honey or maple syrup along with the brown rice syrup.

Variation

You can easily modify this recipe by adding dried fruit, seeds, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a different flavor profile. Substitute the dark chocolate with milk chocolate if you prefer a creamier taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of nuts?
Yes! You can use any unsalted nuts you like. Just keep the total amount to 2 1/2 cups.

2. What if I don’t have brown rice syrup?
You can substitute it with honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup.

3. How long do these bars last?
They can last up to a week at room temperature or two weeks in the refrigerator when stored properly.