Description
No-Bake Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Nut Bars are an easy-to-make, deliciously sweet and salty snack that combines crunchy mixed nuts, rolled oats, and creamy almond butter with rich dark chocolate. No oven is needed, making these bars perfect for quick preparation and a healthy treat anytime.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups mixed nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, cashews, or peanuts—chopped)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 tsp sea salt (plus extra for sprinkling on top)
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup)
- 1/4 cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Chocolate Layer
- 1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher) or chopped dark chocolate
- Optional: 1 tbsp coconut oil (to make chocolate smoother)
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang on the sides to make it easier to lift out the bars later.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped mixed nuts and rolled oats. Set aside.
- Heat the wet ingredients: In a small saucepan over medium heat, add the honey or maple syrup, almond butter or peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Stir continuously until the mixture is thoroughly combined and smooth, heating for about 1-2 minutes to warm it up but avoid boiling.
- Combine: Pour the warm honey and almond butter mixture over the nuts and oats. Stir well to coat evenly. Sprinkle in the 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt and mix thoroughly.
- Prepare the chocolate: Melt the dark chocolate chips with the optional coconut oil in a heatproof bowl placed over simmering water (double boiler) or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth and fluid.
- Assemble the bars: Pour the melted chocolate over the nut and oat mixture and stir gently but thoroughly so all ingredients are evenly coated with chocolate.
- Press into the pan: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press down firmly and create an even, compact layer.
- Chill: Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 to 2 hours to let the chocolate set and the bars firm up. For quicker setting, place them in the freezer for about 30 minutes.
- Serve: Once set, lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares or bars. Sprinkle a little extra sea salt on top before serving for a perfect salty-sweet contrast.
Notes
- You can customize the nuts according to your preference, or add dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for extra flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a sweeter bar, substitute dark chocolate with semi-sweet chocolate chips or drizzle additional melted chocolate on top.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for longer shelf life.
