Imagine biting into a crunchy, chewy bar that’s bursting with rich dark chocolate and a sprinkle of sea salt. The sweet-savory combination dances on your taste buds, making every nibble a mini celebration. chewy chocolate mint cookies Now, picture this: you’re at home after a long day, craving something sweet yet satisfying, and these Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are just the ticket. strawberry crunch rice krispie treats no bake cookie dough cheesecake For more inspiration, check out this Greek yogurt muffins recipe recipe.
These delectable bars will become your new go-to snack! They’re perfect for those busy days when you need a quick energy boost or a delightful treat to share during movie night. Trust me; once you make these nutty wonders, they’ll be hard to resist.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are incredibly easy to prepare and require minimal ingredients
- The flavor profile balances sweetness and saltiness perfectly, creating a mouthwatering experience
- Visually appealing with their glossy chocolate coating and crunchy nuts, they look as good as they taste
- Versatile enough for any occasion, these bars can be enjoyed at breakfast or as an afternoon snack
I remember the first time I made these bars; my friends devoured them in minutes, leaving only crumbs behind as evidence of their deliciousness.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Mixed Nuts: Use your favorites like almonds, cashews, or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
Dark Chocolate Chips: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate for a rich taste that complements the nuts beautifully.
Honey or Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that binds the ingredients while adding a touch of sweetness.
Sea Salt: A sprinkle enhances the flavors; choose flaky sea salt for added crunch.
Vanilla Extract: A splash adds depth to the overall flavor profile of your nut bars.
Coconut Oil: Helps with melting the chocolate smoothly for an even coating.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overlap for easy removal later. This step ensures your bars won’t stick.
Melt the Chocolate Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals until melted and smooth. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
Mix Nuts and Sweetener Together: In another bowl, combine mixed nuts with honey or maple syrup. Ensure all nuts are coated well; this helps bind everything together.
Add Vanilla Extract and Sea Salt: Stir in vanilla extract and half of the sea salt into the nut mixture. This addition enhances flavor while keeping that salty-sweet balance intact.
Combine Everything Together: Pour the melted chocolate over the nut mixture and stir until everything is well combined. The glossy chocolate should coat all nuts evenly.
Spread and Chill: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Press it down firmly using a spatula so it holds together nicely once chilled. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set fully.
Once set, lift out of the dish using parchment paper edges, slice into bars, sprinkle remaining sea salt on top, and enjoy your homemade Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars! chocolate marble banana bread.
You Must Know
- Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are a delightful treat packed with energy
- These bars are perfect for a quick snack or to satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt
- They combine rich flavors and textures, making every bite a delicious experience
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by toasting the nuts for enhanced flavor, then mix everything together before pressing it into the pan. This sequence ensures that flavors meld beautifully while providing optimal texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out nuts based on your preference or add dried fruits for extra sweetness. A sprinkle of cinnamon can elevate the flavor profile, giving it that cozy touch.
Storing & Reheating
Store these nut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them to keep them fresh and chewy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Toasting nuts not only enhances their flavor but also adds a satisfying crunch to your bars
- Be careful not to overdo it; a light golden color is perfect
- Remember to let your bars cool fully before cutting them for clean edges
Nothing warms my heart quite like when my best friend tried these bars and claimed they were “life-changing.” It was one of those moments where I felt like a rock star chef, even in my tiny kitchen.
FAQ
What can I use instead of dark chocolate?
You can substitute dark chocolate with semi-sweet or even white chocolate if you prefer. For more inspiration, check out this white chocolate bundt cake recipe.
Can I make these nut bars vegan?
Yes, simply use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly option.
How do I cut the bars neatly?
Chill them in the fridge before cutting for cleaner, more precise edges.
Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are the ultimate sweet and salty snack that you can whip up in no time. These bars combine crunchy mixed nuts with rich dark chocolate, creating an irresistible treat that’s perfect for busy days or cozy movie nights. Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients, they deliver a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making them a must-try recipe for anyone looking to satisfy their cravings without guilt.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, walnuts)
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp sea salt (plus more for topping)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
Instructions
- Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Melt dark chocolate chips and coconut oil together in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals until smooth.
- In another bowl, mix mixed nuts with honey or maple syrup until well coated.
- Stir in vanilla extract and half of the sea salt into the nut mixture.
- Combine melted chocolate with the nut mixture until evenly coated.
- Transfer to the prepared baking dish, pressing down firmly, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
- Once set, lift out using parchment edges, slice into bars, and sprinkle remaining sea salt on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (50g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Toasting the nuts enhances flavor; be careful not to over-toast. Feel free to substitute nuts or add dried fruits for variety. For vegan options, swap honey for maple syrup.