Warm, Personal Introduction
There’s something magical about the smell of chocolate melting, combined with the crunch of nuts and the light sprinkle of sea salt. I remember the first time I made these Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars—it was a rainy afternoon, and I needed a healthy treat to cozy up with. The flavors blended perfectly, creating a sweet yet salty snack that felt indulgent without the guilt. This recipe matters because it’s simple and wholesome. It allows you to enjoy a delicious treat while knowing exactly what’s in it. That’s what makes it special; it brings joy and satisfaction, tailored just for you.
Why Make This Recipe
These Homemade Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are not just tasty; they are nourishing too. Packed with healthy fats from nuts and natural sweetness from dates, they make for a perfect snack. Whether you’re looking for something quick for breakfast, a midday pick-me-up, or a guilt-free dessert, these bars hit the spot. Plus, making them at home means you can control the sweetness and ingredients, ensuring they fit perfectly with your taste and dietary needs.
How to Make Homemade Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, walnuts)
- 1/2 cup dates, pitted
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, combine the mixed nuts and dates, and pulse until finely chopped.
- Add the melted dark chocolate, sea salt, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture holds together.
- Press the mixture firmly into the lined baking dish into an even layer.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
- Store in an airtight container.
How to Serve Homemade Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
These nut bars are incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them straight from the fridge or at room temperature. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful snack experience. They also make a great addition to lunchboxes for a healthy treat throughout the day.
How to Store Homemade Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
To ensure your nut bars stay fresh, store them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, where they will stay good for about two weeks.
Tips to Make Homemade Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
- If you want a sweeter bar, consider increasing the amount of honey or maple syrup.
- Feel free to customize the nuts according to your preferences. Pecans or hazelnuts can also work well.
- For a fun flavor twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or some dried fruit to the mixture.
Variation
You can switch up the dark chocolate for milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste. Alternatively, for a nut-free version, substitute the nuts with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds, along with the dates.
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the dates?
Yes, you can use dried fruits like raisins or figs, but the texture and sweetness may vary.
2. Are these nut bars gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains only nuts and no grains.
3. Can I freeze these nut bars?
Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them individually in plastic wrap or foil.
Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, walnuts)
- 1/2 cup dates, pitted
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup For sweetness adjustment
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Method
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, combine the mixed nuts and dates, and pulse until finely chopped.
- Add the melted dark chocolate, sea salt, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture holds together.
- Press the mixture firmly into the lined baking dish into an even layer.
Baking
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
Storage
- Store in an airtight container.