Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a snack that perfectly balances indulgence with wholesome crunch, these Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are about to become your new best friend. Imagine a burst of satisfying nuts and puffed rice, all held together by a touch of sweet brown rice syrup and that tantalizing hit of sea salt, then enveloped in rich, glossy dark chocolate. Each bite offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that feel both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re packing a lunchbox or need a quick pick-me-up, these bars are the ultimate treat that manages to be both wholesome and decadent.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars lies in their simplicity. With just a handful of carefully chosen ingredients, each element plays a crucial role: nuts add crunch and protein, puffed rice gives a light texture, and the dark chocolate creates that luxurious finish. Plus, a dash of sea salt enhances all those naturally sweet and nutty notes.

• 2 1/2 cups unsalted nuts of choice: A mix of cashews, peanuts, and almonds provides a satisfying crunch and nutty depth.
• 1/2 cup puffed rice: Adds a light, airy texture that keeps the bars from feeling too dense.
• 1/4 cup brown rice syrup: Acts as the natural sweetener and binder that holds everything together.
• 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Lends warmth and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances sweetness and adds that perfectly balanced savory contrast.
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips: For coating and drizzling, giving the bars irresistibly rich flavor.
• 2 teaspoons coconut oil: Helps melt the chocolate smoothly and adds a subtle tropical note.
• Optional: flaky salt for topping: Adds an extra crunch and visual appeal.

How to Make Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars

Step 1: Toast the Nuts

Start by preheating your oven to 325˚F (160˚C). Spread your chosen mix of unsalted nuts evenly on a rimmed baking sheet, then pop them in the oven for about 5 to 8 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they should become fragrant and lightly browned, which really awakens their natural oils and deepens their flavor. Toasting the nuts is the foundation for those marvelous Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars you’re making.

Step 2: Prepare the Nut Base

While the nuts cool slightly, line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper—it makes cleanup a breeze and helps with bar removal. In a large bowl, combine the toasted nuts with puffed rice, stirring to mix evenly. This step creates the texture base that will carry all the delicious flavors.

Step 3: Make the Syrup Mixture

Now, add the brown rice syrup to a microwave-safe bowl and heat it up for 30 seconds to make it more fluid. Whisk in the vanilla extract and sea salt until well combined. This syrup mixture will glue all your nuts and puffed rice together while infusing subtle sweetness and flavor.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

Pour the syrup mixture over your nut and puffed rice blend, stirring thoroughly to coat everything evenly. Transfer the entire mixture to your lined pan and press it down firmly, ensuring it’s compacted into an even layer. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, then remove from the oven. Let it cool for about 30 minutes, then place it on a cutting board. Cut the slab lengthwise in half, then slice each half into thin bars—usually about 10 to 12.

Step 5: Chocolate Coating

Combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Melt them in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each until smooth and glossy. Dip the bottom of each nut bar into the melted chocolate, then arrange them on a parchment-lined sheet. Drizzle the tops with more melted chocolate and sprinkle flaky salt for that extra texture and sprinkle of elegance. Pop the bars into the fridge until the chocolate sets completely.

How to Serve Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars

Garnishes

These bars are already a delight, but if you want to kick it up a notch, sprinkle a pinch of extra flaky sea salt on top right before serving to emphasize the contrast between salty and sweet. You can also consider chopping a few fresh nuts for a rustic finish or lightly dusting with cocoa powder to deepen the chocolatey vibe.

Side Dishes

While these bars make a satisfying snack on their own, pairing them with a fresh fruit salad or a creamy yogurt dip complements the nutty crunch perfectly. For a cozy afternoon, serve them alongside a cup of herbal tea or a rich, dark roast coffee to match their deep chocolate flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests or jazz up your snack table? Arrange the Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars on a wooden board with clusters of fresh berries, a drizzle of honey, and a few sprigs of mint. You could also wrap individual bars in parchment and tie them with twine for a charming grab-and-go treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your bars are set, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Keep them away from direct sunlight or humidity to preserve that perfect crunch and prevent the chocolate from melting.

Freezing

If you want to keep these bars fresh longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes.

Reheating

These bars are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, but if you prefer them a little warmer, simply let them sit out for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving, which can melt the chocolate unevenly and soften the bars too much.

FAQs

Can I use different nuts for this recipe?

Absolutely! The recipe is versatile, so feel free to swap out or add your favorite nuts like walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts. Just keep the total quantity the same to maintain the right texture.

Is there a substitute for brown rice syrup?

You can use honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar if you prefer. Keep in mind these alternatives may slightly alter the flavor and texture, but they still work wonderfully.

Can I make these bars vegan?

Yes! Use vegan dark chocolate chips and ensure your syrup choice is plant-based like maple syrup or agave. This keeps the bars entirely plant-forward and delicious.

How long do these bars stay fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, the bars will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Refrigerate or freeze to extend their shelf life even further.

Can I skip the chocolate coating?

While the chocolate adds that luscious finish, you can absolutely omit it if you want a simpler nut bar. They’ll still be tasty and packed with flavor, just less decadent.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say these Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are the perfect blend of wholesome and indulgent, making them a snack you’ll want on hand all the time. They’re simple to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to satisfy any craving. Grab your ingredients, get in the kitchen, and treat yourself to this irresistible, crunchy delight.