If you’re in the market for a snack that’s equal parts decadent, satisfying, and wholesome, look no further: these Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are about to become your new everyday obsession. Each bite balances the satisfying crunch of toasted nuts, the irresistible chew of puffed rice, and an almost-too-good dark chocolate shell all tied together with just the right kiss of sea salt. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, this homemade take on your favorite KIND bars will have you skipping the store-bought versions forever.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t blink, because these Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars come together with just a handful of simple ingredients. Every item here brings something special to the flavor and texture — from crunchy nuts to creamy chocolate, they each play a key role in crafting the perfect bar!
- Unsalted nuts of choice: Toasting your mix of cashews, peanuts, and almonds adds a deep, roasty flavor and the ultimate crunch that makes these bars so addictive.
- Puffed rice: Light and airy, puffed rice brightens every bite and keeps the bars from feeling too dense.
- Brown rice syrup: This sticky-sweet ingredient not only binds everything together but also gives a gentle caramel flavor and gorgeous chew.
- Vanilla extract: Just a touch brings warmth and enhances all the nutty, chocolatey notes.
- Sea salt: The magic ingredient — a sprinkle sets off all the sweetness and makes the chocolate flavor pop.
- Dark chocolate chips: Melted into silky perfection, these are responsible for the dreamy chocolate layer and drizzle on each bar.
- Coconut oil: This helps the chocolate melt beautifully smooth and set with a lovely gloss.
- Flaky salt (optional): A final sprinkle for that unmistakable gourmet touch.
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 nuts in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 5 to 8 minutes, just until they’re fragrant and lightly golden — keep a close eye for the perfect crunch! Toasting ramps up their flavor and makes every bite more delicious.
Step 2: Prep Your Pan
While the nuts are toasting, line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper. This nonstick layer will ensure you can lift your bars out with ease and keeps them looking perfectly neat.
Step 3: Mix the Main Ingredients
Combine your toasted nuts and puffed rice in a large mixing bowl, tossing to distribute the ingredients evenly. This step is where all your snack dreams start to come together.
Step 4: Make the Binding Syrup
Add the brown rice syrup to a microwave-safe bowl and pop it in for about 30 seconds to loosen. Whisk in the vanilla extract and sea salt, mixing until smooth. Pour this golden glue over your nuts and rice, making sure everything gets nicely coated so each bar holds together perfectly.
Step 5: Press and Bake
Tip the mixture into your lined pan and use a spatula (or your hands, lightly greased) to press everything into an even, compact layer. Slide the pan into your oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, until the edges are set. Let the pan cool for about 30 minutes to help the bars firm up before cutting.
Step 6: Slice Into Bars
Once cooled, transfer the slab to a cutting board. Cut the bars in half lengthwise, then slice each half into 5 or 6 strips. Don’t worry if some edges crumble a bit — that’s the charm of homemade!
Step 7: Dip and Drizzle with Chocolate
In a clean, microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips along with coconut oil using 30-second intervals, stirring between bursts. Dip each bar’s bottom into the glossy chocolate, letting any excess drip off. Place the bars, chocolate-side down, on a parchment-lined sheet. Use the remaining melted chocolate to drizzle over the tops, then sprinkle with flaky salt if you like.
Step 8: Set and Enjoy
Refrigerate your Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars until the chocolate is set — this is the hardest part: the waiting! Once firm, they’re ready for snacking, gifting, or fueling your next adventure.
How to Serve Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
Garnishes
A sprinkle of flaky salt is an absolute must — it instantly turns your homemade bars into something that looks and tastes gourmet. For a little extra flair, try a dusting of edible gold flakes, a handful of toasted coconut, or a light drizzle of caramel for added indulgence.
Side Dishes
Pair your Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars with a hot cup of coffee or cold brew for a perfect mid-morning snack. For something refreshing, try serving alongside a bowl of ripe berries or a tangy Greek yogurt parfait — it’s the kind of combo that adds a touch of luxury to any snack break.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap your bars in waxed paper and tie with twine for a rustic look, or pile them onto a pretty platter for brunch with friends. Stack them in a mason jar for a thoughtful homemade gift! You can even cut them into mini squares and serve toothpick-style for an irresistible party treat — they never last long.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars will stay fresh stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper so the bars don’t stick together — it keeps them tidy and easy to grab!
Freezing
If you want to stock up, these bars freeze beautifully. Place them in a container with parchment between layers and freeze for up to several months. When you’re ready for a snack, just thaw what you need at room temperature for a few minutes — no fuss, no loss of flavor or texture.
Reheating
These bars are fantastic straight out of the fridge or freezer, but if you prefer a softer chew, let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before eating. There’s no need to reheat, but a quick 5-second zap in the microwave can give the chocolate a lovely just-melted touch.
FAQs
Can I swap the nuts for different varieties?
Absolutely! The beauty of these Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars is how customizable they are. Try walnuts, hazelnuts, pecans, or even pistachios — just keep the total volume the same for perfect results.
What if I can’t find brown rice syrup?
No worries! While brown rice syrup holds the bars together best, honey or maple syrup can be used in a pinch. Just know the texture may be a little stickier and the bars slightly softer — still delicious!
How do I keep the chocolate from pooling at the bottom of the bars?
Letting any extra chocolate drip off before placing each bar on the parchment-lined tray is key. This keeps that gorgeous chocolate “foot” in check and makes your bars look wonderfully professional.
Are these gluten free?
Yes! As long as you use certified gluten free puffed rice and chocolate chips, your Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars will be naturally gluten free, making them a safe snack for just about everyone.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?
You sure can. Dark chocolate gives a richer, more grown-up flavor, but if you prefer things on the sweeter side, feel free to swap in milk chocolate chips without changing the method.
Final Thoughts
If you love simple snacks that truly deliver on taste and satisfaction, you have to try these Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars. They’re a joy to eat, a breeze to make, and guaranteed to turn any snack break into something special. Gather your ingredients and treat yourself — your future self will thank you!
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Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 bars
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These homemade Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are a delicious and satisfying snack. Crunchy and perfectly salty, they are a great alternative to store-bought bars. With a simple recipe and minimal ingredients, these bars are easy to make and perfect for those following a gluten-free diet. Indulge in the rich combination of dark chocolate, nuts, and a hint of sea salt in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Nut Bars:
- 2 1/2 cups unsalted nuts of choice (e.g., 3/4 cup cashews, 3/4 cup peanuts, 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
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil
- Optional: flaky salt for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Toast the nuts: Spread the nuts on a baking sheet and toast for 5-8 minutes until fragrant.
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
- Mix the nuts: Combine toasted nuts and puffed rice in a bowl.
- Prepare the syrup: Heat brown rice syrup, vanilla, and salt, then mix with nuts.
- Form the bars: Press the nut mixture into the pan and bake.
- Cut into bars: Cool, cut into bars, and place on a baking sheet.
- Coat with chocolate: Melt chocolate and coconut oil, dip bars, and drizzle with chocolate.
- Chill and enjoy: Refrigerate until set and enjoy!
Notes
- If brown rice syrup is unavailable, honey can be used as a substitute. Bars may be slightly stickier.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for several months. Separate layers with parchment paper.
- Line the pan with parchment paper and cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Adding coconut oil to the chocolate helps thin it out and set faster.
- To avoid excess chocolate drips, let the bars drain before placing them down.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 248
- Sugar: 10.3 g
- Sodium: 68.2 mg
- Fat: 18.1 g
- Saturated Fat: 7.9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 17.3 g
- Fiber: 3.2 g
- Protein: 6.9 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
