✅ No-bake
✅ Crunchy + sweet + salty
✅ Healthy snack or dessert
Introduction
If you love the combination of dark chocolate, roasted nuts, and flaky sea salt, these Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are about to become your new favorite snack. Think of them as the perfect balance of chewy, crunchy, salty, and sweet — like a gourmet chocolate bar, but homemade, healthier, and incredibly simple.
Made from real ingredients — nuts, dark chocolate, a touch of honey, and a sprinkle of sea salt — these bars come together in just a few minutes and set in the fridge. They’re ideal for satisfying sweet cravings without feeling heavy, perfect for lunchboxes, after-dinner desserts, or a quick pick-me-up with coffee.
Minimal ingredients. Maximum flavor.
Ingredients List
Core Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups mixed nuts, roughly chopped (almonds, cashews, pecans, pistachios — any mix works)
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (60–80% cacao recommended)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of flaky sea salt, plus more for topping
Timing
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 8 minutes |
| Chill Time | 30–40 minutes |
| Total Time | ~45 minutes |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Pan
Line a 8×8-inch dish or loaf pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, melt:
- Dark chocolate
- Coconut oil
- Honey
Stir until smooth and glossy.
Step 3: Flavor It
Stir in:
- Vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Step 4: Add the Nuts
Fold in chopped nuts until everything is coated evenly.
Step 5: Spread & Chill
Pour mixture into the lined pan.
Smooth into an even layer.
Sprinkle the top with extra flaky sea salt.
Refrigerate 30–40 minutes, or until firm.
Step 6: Cut & Serve
Lift parchment to remove slab from pan.
Slice into bars or squares.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per bar)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~210 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 16g (healthy fats) |
| Carbs | 14g |
| Sugar | 6g |
Healthier & Dietary Alternatives
| Goal | Swap |
|---|---|
| Lower Sugar | Use extra-dark chocolate (85%+) |
| Vegan | Use maple syrup + dairy-free chocolate |
| High Protein | Add 1 tablespoon chia or hemp seeds |
| Nut-Free | Replace nuts with pumpkin and sunflower seeds |
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy these bars:
- As a coffee companion
- With fruit and yogurt for breakfast
- Before a workout
- As an afternoon “I need something” snack
- With red wine or espresso after dinner (elegant!)
They also pack perfectly into:
- Meal prep containers
- Lunchboxes
- Hiking snacks
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Solution |
|---|---|
| Bars too soft | Use darker chocolate (more cacao = firmer set) |
| Too bitter | Add 1 extra teaspoon of honey |
| Hard to cut | Let sit at room temp 5 minutes before slicing |
| Nuts fall out | Chop nuts small so they bind well |
Storing Tips
- Refrigerator: Up to 2 weeks
- Freezer: Up to 3 months
- Store layered with parchment to prevent sticking
Conclusion
These Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are simple, elegant, and incredibly satisfying — offering rich chocolate, crunchy nuts, and the perfect touch of sea salt in every bite. With only a few real-food ingredients and no baking needed, they’re a dessert and snack favorite you’ll return to again and again.
Make them once — and you’ll always want a batch in your fridge.
FAQs
1. Can I use milk chocolate?
Yes — but bars will be softer and sweeter.
2. Can I toast the nuts first?
Yes — highly recommended for deeper flavor.
3. Can I add dried fruit?
Absolutely — dried cranberries or cherries work beautifully.
4. Can I double the recipe?
Yes — use a 9×13 pan and increase refrigerating time slightly.
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