Dark chocolate and sea salt nut bars are a delightful treat that satisfy your sweet tooth and keep you energized throughout the day. Imagine biting into a chewy, nutty bar, where the rich flavor of dark chocolate mingles with the subtle crunch of nuts, all topped off with a sprinkle of sea salt that makes each bite feel like a little piece of heaven.

Every time I make these bars, I’m transported back to my college days when snacks were my lifeline during late-night study sessions. Friends would crowd around as I unveiled this homemade treasure, their eyes lighting up like it was Christmas morning. Now, these dark chocolate and sea salt nut bars have become our go-to snack for road trips or movie nights, promising both satisfaction and nostalgia in every bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These dark chocolate and sea salt nut bars are incredibly easy to whip up in just 30 minutes
- The flavor combination is irresistible you’ll crave these bars after just one bite Visually appealing with their decadent chocolate drizzle, they’re perfect for any occasion
- Enjoy them as a quick breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up
You won’t believe the reactions from family when they try these bars for the first time – it’s pure joy
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Mixed Nuts: Use your favorites like almonds, cashews, and pecans for varied texture and flavor.
- Dark Chocolate Chips: Opt for at least 70% cocoa for a rich taste that balances perfectly with sweetness.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Natural sweeteners add just the right amount of sweetness while keeping it healthy.
- Sea Salt: A sprinkling on top elevates the flavor profile and complements the chocolate beautifully.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to the flavor always choose pure vanilla for the best results.
- Rolled Oats: They provide chewiness and help bind everything together, making your bars hearty.
- Coconut Oil: A touch of melted coconut oil helps everything stick together while adding healthy fats.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare Your Pan: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine dark chocolate chips with coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals until smooth and creamy. Stir well to avoid burning.
Mix Your Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine mixed nuts, rolled oats, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and half of your melted chocolate. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Add the Chocolate Layer: Pour your nut mixture into the prepared pan and press down firmly with a spatula. Drizzle the remaining melted chocolate over the top for that gorgeous finish.
Bake to Perfection: Place your pan in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Remove from oven and sprinkle with sea salt while still warm.
Cool and Cut: Let cool completely in the pan before using parchment paper overhang to lift out. Cut into squares or bars as desired.
These dark chocolate and sea salt nut bars are not only simple to make but also customizable based on your favorite nuts or add-ins like dried fruit or seeds Enjoy them on-the-go or share them at gatherings you won’t be disappointed with this delightful recipe
You Must Know
- Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are a delightful balance of sweet and salty flavors
- They’re perfect for a quick snack or a healthy dessert
- The crunchy nuts combined with rich chocolate create a satisfying texture that’s hard to resist
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by toasting the nuts to enhance their flavor, then melt the dark chocolate while mixing in the nut combination. This ensures everything melds beautifully together.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out nuts or add dried fruits for variety. Experimenting with different chocolates can also elevate the bars to suit your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Refrigeration may extend freshness but could alter texture slightly.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect texture, chop your nuts uniformly so they mix well
- Always use high-quality dark chocolate for rich flavor
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting them to avoid crumbling
The first time I made these nut bars, my friends devoured them in minutes, leaving me wondering if I should’ve hidden some for myself.
FAQ
What nuts work best in Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars?
Any combination of almonds, walnuts, and pecans offers a great balance of flavors.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but it will change the flavor profile to be sweeter and less intense.
How do I make these nut bars vegan?
Use dairy-free dark chocolate and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based as well.
Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are the ultimate snack for any occasion. These chewy, nutty bars combine rich dark chocolate with a sprinkle of sea salt, creating a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. Ready in just 30 minutes, they are not only easy to make but also customizable to fit your favorite nuts or add-ins. Whether you need a quick breakfast or a delicious afternoon pick-me-up, these bars promise satisfaction in every bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa)
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for topping)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil together until smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mixed nuts, rolled oats, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and half of the melted chocolate. Mix until well coated.
- Press the mixture into the prepared pan and drizzle with remaining melted chocolate.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Sprinkle with sea salt while warm.
- Allow to cool completely before lifting out of the pan and cutting into squares.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (45g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Toasting the nuts before adding them enhances their flavor. Feel free to experiment with different nuts or add dried fruits for variety. Store bars in an airtight container; they last up to one week at room temperature.