Name: Vegan & Gluten Free Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Nut Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 cup mixed nuts (such as almonds, cashews, peanuts, pecans), roughly chopped; 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds; 1/4 cup sunflower seeds; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1/4 cup peanut butter; 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (vegan if needed); Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling

Why Make This Recipe

Vegan & Gluten Free Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Nut Bars are a delicious and healthy treat. They are perfect for snacks, energy boosts, or even dessert. With wholesome ingredients, these bars are not only vegan and gluten-free but also packed with nutrients from nuts and seeds. Plus, the combination of dark chocolate and sea salt makes them irresistible!

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How to Make Vegan & Gluten Free Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Nut Bars

Ingredients:

1 cup mixed nuts (such as almonds, cashews, peanuts, pecans), roughly chopped
1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
1/4 cup sunflower seeds
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup peanut butter
2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (vegan if needed)
Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling

Directions:

Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
In a large bowl, combine the chopped mixed nuts, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, peanut butter, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour the wet ingredients over the nut mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and press it down firmly into an even layer.
In a microwave-safe bowl or a double boiler, melt the dark chocolate chips until smooth.
Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the nut mixture in the pan.
Sprinkle the top with flaky sea salt.
Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the bars to set.
Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
Cut into desired sized bars and enjoy! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

How to Serve Vegan & Gluten Free Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Nut Bars

These bars are perfect for any time of the day! Enjoy them as a quick snack, post-workout energy boost, or dessert. You can pair these nut bars with a glass of almond milk or your favorite plant-based yogurt for a tasty treat.

How to Store Vegan & Gluten Free Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Nut Bars

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week, but you’ll probably eat them much sooner because they’re so delicious!

Tips to Make Vegan & Gluten Free Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Nut Bars

You can customize the nuts and seeds based on what you have at home.
Make sure to press the mixture firmly into the baking pan to help the bars hold their shape.
Let the melted chocolate cool slightly before pouring it over the nut mixture to avoid melting the other ingredients.

Variation

You can substitute peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a different flavor. If you want to add more sweetness, consider adding a tablespoon or two of agave syrup along with the maple syrup.

FAQs

Can I use different types of nuts?

Yes! You can use any nuts you like or have on hand. Just make sure to keep the total amount to 1 cup.

Are these bars suitable for kids?

Absolutely! They make a great snack for kids, packed with healthy fats and protein.

Can I freeze these nut bars?

Yes! You can freeze the bars. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months.