Irresistible Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
# Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars Recipe
## Introduction
If you're a fan of sweet and salty snacks, then you'll love these Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars. This delightful treat combines crunchy nuts with velvety dark chocolate and a sprinkle of sea salt, creating an irresistible flavor profile that's perfect for any time of day. These bars are not only delicious but also packed with healthy nuts and the crunch of puffed rice, making them a satisfying option for a quick energy boost or a dessert.
## Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to try these Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars. First, they are incredibly easy to make! With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. These bars are also versatile; you can alter the type of nuts based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Plus, they make for an excellent snack for on-the-go lifestyles, and the combination of flavors is truly addictive. Finally, you'll feel good knowing that you're enjoying a treat made with wholesome ingredients.
## How to Make Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
Follow this step-by-step guide to create your very own Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars!
## Ingredients
- 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 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil
- Optional: Flaky salt for topping
## Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Spread the nuts into a single layer on a rimmed sheet pan and bake for 5-8 minutes, until they become fragrant and lightly browned.
3. Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper and set it aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the nuts and puffed rice, tossing them together.
5. In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the brown rice syrup for 30 seconds to loosen it up. Whisk in the vanilla extract and sea salt until combined.
6. Pour the syrup mixture over the nut and puffed rice mixture, stirring until all ingredients are evenly coated.
7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press it into an even layer.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 30 minutes before transferring it to a cutting board.
9. Cut the cooled mixture in half lengthwise and then slice each half into 5-6 thin bars. Let them cool completely.
10. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well until melted.
11. Dip the bottom of each bar into the melted chocolate and transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
12. Drizzle the top of each bar with more melted chocolate and sprinkle with flaky salt.
13. Refrigerate until the chocolate is set, then enjoy!
## How to Serve Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
These nut bars make a fantastic snack that can be enjoyed on their own, or paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea. You can also serve them at parties or gatherings; simply cut them into smaller pieces for easy sharing!
## How to Store Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
To keep your nut bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for two weeks, or freeze for up to three months.
## Tips to Make Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
- Use a mix of your favorite nuts for added flavor and texture.
- Try adding dried fruits or seeds for extra nutrition.
- If you like your bars a little more crispy, increase the baking time slightly.
## Variations
Feel free to customize your nut bars! You can use different kinds of nuts such as walnuts or pecans, or add a scoop of protein powder to make them more filling. For a vegan option, ensure that the chocolate chips are dairy-free.
## FAQs
**1. Can I use different types of syrup?**
Yes, you can use other liquid sweeteners like maple syrup or honey, keeping in mind that it may change the flavor.
**2. What if I can't find puffed rice?**
You can substitute puffed rice with other puffed grains or cereals, such as puffed quinoa.
**3. Can I omit the chocolate coating?**
Absolutely! You can enjoy these bars without chocolate for a lighter snack.
Now that you have the recipe and all the details, it’s time to make your own delicious Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars! Enjoy the process and the delightful end result.
Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
Delicious nut bars featuring crunchy nuts, creamy dark chocolate, and a sprinkle of sea salt, perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Nuts and Base
- 2.5 cups unsalted nuts of choice (e.g., 3/4 cup cashews, 3/4 cup peanuts, 1 cup almonds) Use your favorite mix of nuts.
- 0.5 cup puffed rice Can be substituted with other puffed grains.
Binding and Flavoring Ingredients
- 0.25 cup brown rice syrup Can substitute with maple syrup or honey.
- 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 0.5 teaspoon sea salt
Chocolate Coating
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips Ensure they're dairy-free for vegan option.
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil Helps to melt the chocolate smoothly.
- optional Flaky salt for topping Add to taste.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Spread the nuts into a single layer on a rimmed sheet pan and bake for 5-8 minutes, until they become fragrant and lightly browned.
- Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper and set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the nuts and puffed rice, tossing them together.
Mixing and Baking
- In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the brown rice syrup for 30 seconds to loosen it up. Whisk in the vanilla extract and sea salt until combined.
- Pour the syrup mixture over the nut and puffed rice mixture, stirring until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press it into an even layer.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 30 minutes before transferring it to a cutting board.
Cutting and Coating
- Cut the cooled mixture in half lengthwise and then slice each half into 5-6 thin bars. Let them cool completely.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well until melted.
- Dip the bottom of each bar into the melted chocolate and transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle the top of each bar with more melted chocolate and sprinkle with flaky salt.
- Refrigerate until the chocolate is set, then enjoy!
Notes
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate for two weeks, or freeze for up to three months. Customize using different nuts or add dried fruits.
