Decadent Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Nut Bars

Craving that perfect blend of sweet and salty in a delicious homemade snack? Look no further than these irresistible Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars! Born out of a quest to recreate the crave-worthy crunch of store-bought nut bars without the hefty price tag, these bars strike the ideal balance of toasty nuts, sticky-sweet brown rice syrup, and decadent dark chocolate. The finishing touch of a sprinkle of flaky sea salt elevates them to a whole new level of addictive deliciousness.

After a few sticky mishaps and some kitchen experimentation, I’ve perfected this recipe to deliver a snack that’s become a staple in my household. From satisfying mid-afternoon cravings to fueling outdoor adventures, these bars are a hit with both adults and kids alike. With a base of unsalted nuts, a touch of puffed rice for crunch, and a drizzle of dark chocolate, these bars offer a satisfyingly chewy texture that keeps you coming back for more.

Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee for a well-deserved break or pack them in lunchboxes for a wholesome treat, these Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are sure to impress. Embrace your creativity by trying different nut combinations or adding seasonal twists for a unique flavor profile. With tips for storage and serving suggestions, these bars are not just a snack but a delightful homemade indulgence that will have your loved ones reaching for seconds.

Quick Benefits

• Save money by making a homemade alternative to expensive store-bought nut bars
• Perfect snack for hikes, lunchboxes, and energy slumps with a satisfying sweet-salty crunch
• Versatile recipe allows for creative adaptations with different nut combinations and flavor additions
• Easy to store and freeze for convenient, grab-and-go treats that stay fresh for longer

Why You’ll Love This Decadent Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Nut Bars Recipe

• Satisfying Sweet-Salty Crunch: This recipe perfectly captures the sweet-salty crunch you crave, making it a delightful snack or treat.
• Addictive Flavor: The combination of toasty nuts, sticky-sweet binding, and dark chocolate creates an addictive taste that appeals to almost everyone.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can experiment with different nut combinations and add-ons like cinnamon, coconut, or dried fruit to suit your taste preferences and the season.
• Indulgent Yet Nourishing: Enjoy the decadence of dark chocolate and sea salt while knowing you’re also getting a mix of carbs, protein, and healthy fats for lasting energy.
• Perfect for Various Occasions: Whether you need a snack for hikes, a lunchbox treat, a pre-workout boost, or a coffee pairing, these bars fit the bill.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve these bars on a wooden board with fresh berries, or get creative with drizzles of white chocolate for a beautiful contrast that will impress guests.
• Convenient Storage: With a week-long shelf life at room temperature and the option to freeze individual bars for up to three months, these bars are perfect for meal prep and on-the-go snacking.

Ingredients for Decadent Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Nut Bars

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

How to Make Decadent Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Nut Bars

Step 1: Toast nuts

Preheat oven to 325˚F / 160˚C. Spread nuts in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet and bake for 5-8 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned.

Step 2: Prepare pan

Prepare an 8×8-inch pan by lining it with parchment paper.

Step 3: Mix dry ingredients

Combine nuts and puffed rice in a large mixing bowl and toss together.

Step 4: Prepare binding mixture

Microwave brown rice syrup in a bowl for 30 seconds. Whisk in vanilla extract and salt, then pour over nut mixture and stir to coat evenly.

Step 5: Bake bars

Press the nut mixture into the prepared pan to form an even layer. Bake for 18-20 minutes.

Step 6: Cool and cut

Once out of the oven, allow to cool for about 30 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board and slice in half lengthwise. Then, cut each half into 5-6 thin bars. Let bars cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare chocolate coating

Combine chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until melted.

Step 8: Coat with chocolate

Dip the bottom of each bar in melted chocolate and place on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of each bar and sprinkle with flaky salt.

Step 9: Set and serve

Chill until the chocolate hardens, then serve.

Storage Tips

Once you have made these delicious Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars, storing them properly will ensure they maintain their freshness and taste. At room temperature, these bars can be kept in an airtight container for up to a week. To prevent sticking, it’s recommended to separate layers with parchment paper. If you plan to enjoy them over a longer period, they freeze well. Individually wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, allow the bars to thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes for the best texture and flavor.

During hot weather or if you prefer a firmer texture, storing the bars in the refrigerator is a good option to prevent the chocolate from melting. However, it’s ideal to let them come to room temperature before serving to fully enjoy the chewy-crunchy goodness of these nut bars. Whether you’re packing them for a hike, including them in lunchboxes, or serving them as a treat with coffee, following these storage tips will help you savor these homemade bars whenever the craving strikes.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a nut-free version of these dark chocolate and sea salt nut bars, you can substitute the nuts with a combination of seeds like pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and chia seeds. This swap will provide a similar crunch and nutritional profile while catering to those with nut allergies. You can also consider using a mix of dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, and raisins to add sweetness and texture to the bars if you prefer a fruitier flavor profile.

If you don’t have brown rice syrup on hand, you can replace it with honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup as a sweet binding agent. Each of these alternatives will bring its unique flavor to the bars, so you can choose based on your preference or what you have available in your pantry. Additionally, if you’re not a fan of dark chocolate, you can use milk chocolate chips or white chocolate chips instead to tailor the bars to your taste preferences. Experimenting with different types of chocolate can create a variety of flavor profiles, making these bars even more versatile and enjoyable for different occasions.

Serving Suggestions

These Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are a perfect treat for any occasion. For a fancy presentation, serve them on a wooden board alongside some fresh berries for a simple yet impressive offering. The combination of toasty nuts, sticky-sweet binding, and dark chocolate drizzle is sure to appeal to everyone’s taste buds. They make a great accompaniment to a cup of coffee or can be packed for outdoor adventures without worrying about them melting or crumbling easily.

To elevate these bars even further, try adding creative adaptations to the recipe. For a spiced version, incorporate cinnamon and a pinch of cardamom into the syrup mixture. During the holidays, consider adding dried cranberries and orange zest for a festive touch. For a decadent twist, mix in mini chocolate chips or drizzle white chocolate over the top for a beautiful contrast. These bars also store well at room temperature in an airtight container or can be frozen for longer storage. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and chewiness of these homemade bars that are both delicious and nourishing.

FAQs for Decadent Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Nut Bars

Can I use a different combination of nuts for this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the nut combination based on your preferences. Just ensure you have a total of 2 1/2 cups of unsalted nuts in the mix.

Can I substitute brown rice syrup with another sweetener?

If you don’t have brown rice syrup on hand, you can try using honey or maple syrup as a substitute. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor profile of the bars.

How should I store these dark chocolate and sea salt nut bars?

These bars can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week. To freeze them, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap then foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying.

Can I skip the dark chocolate drizzle on top?

If you prefer a less chocolaty version, you can omit the dark chocolate drizzle. The bars will still have a delicious sweet-salty crunch from the nuts and sea salt.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these homemade Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars have truly become a staple in my kitchen, satisfying snack cravings and delighting family and friends alike. The perfect blend of crunchy nuts, sweet brown rice syrup, velvety dark chocolate, and a sprinkle of sea salt makes them utterly irresistible. Whether enjoyed on a hike, tucked into a lunchbox, or savored with a cup of coffee, these bars never fail to bring a smile to everyone’s face.

I encourage you to give these Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars a try and make them your own by adding your favorite nuts, spices, or dried fruits. Embrace the process of creating something delicious and wholesome from scratch, and revel in the joy of sharing these delectable bars with your loved ones. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and let the indulgent aroma of dark chocolate and sea salt fill your kitchen as you embark on your own culinary adventure!

Decadent Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Nut Bars

Indulge in the addictive sweet-salty crunch of homemade Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars, a satisfying snack perfect for hikes, lunchboxes, or mid-afternoon energy slumps.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time25 Minutes

Cook Time25 Minutes

Total Time50 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings12 Servings (12 bars)

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Toast nuts: Preheat oven to 325˚F / 160˚C. Spread nuts in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet and bake for 5-8 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned.
2. Prepare pan: Prepare an 8×8-inch pan by lining it with parchment paper.
3. Mix dry ingredients: Combine nuts and puffed rice in a large mixing bowl and toss together.
4. Prepare binding mixture: Microwave brown rice syrup in a bowl for 30 seconds. Whisk in vanilla extract and salt, then pour over nut mixture and stir to coat evenly.
5. Bake bars: Press the nut mixture into the prepared pan to form an even layer. Bake for 18-20 minutes.
6. Cool and cut: Once out of the oven, allow to cool for about 30 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board and slice in half lengthwise. Then, cut each half into 5-6 thin bars. Let bars cool completely.
7. Prepare chocolate coating: Combine chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until melted.
8. Coat with chocolate: Dip the bottom of each bar in melted chocolate and place on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of each bar and sprinkle with flaky salt.
9. Set and serve: Chill until the chocolate hardens, then serve.