Why Make This Recipe

Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are a delicious and healthy snack option. They are packed with nuts, which provide protein and healthy fats, making them great for energy. The combination of dark chocolate and sea salt adds a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. Plus, they are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite nuts.

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 your oven to 325˚F (160˚C).
Spread the nuts on a rimmed sheet pan in a single layer and bake for 5-8 minutes until they smell fragrant and are lightly browned.
Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper and set it aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the baked nuts and puffed rice. Toss to mix them well.
In a microwave-safe bowl, add the brown rice syrup and microwave for 30 seconds to loosen it up. Then, whisk in the vanilla extract and sea salt until well combined. Pour this mixture over the nut and rice combination and stir until everything is coated evenly.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press it down into an even layer.
Bake for 18-20 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 30 minutes. Then, move it to a cutting board.
Cut the mixture in half lengthwise, then slice each half into 5-6 thin bars. Allow them to cool completely.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each, until the mixture is fully melted.
Dip the bottom of each bar into the melted chocolate, then 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 if desired. Refrigerate until the chocolate sets, then enjoy!

How to Serve Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars

These nut bars can be served as a quick snack at home, taken on the go, or even served at parties. They pair well with a cup of coffee or tea.

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. You can also refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Tips to Make Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars

You can mix different types of nuts based on your preference.
Make sure to press the nut mixture down firmly in the pan to keep the bars from crumbling.
For a sweeter version, add a little extra brown rice syrup.

Variation

Feel free to add dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for added sweetness and texture. You could also use different types of chocolate, such as milk chocolate, if you prefer a sweeter bar.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of nuts?
Yes, you can substitute any nuts you like or use a nut blend.

2. How do I know when the nut bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they are lightly browned and fragrant.

3. Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.