Get ready to fall in love with these Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars—your new must-make snack! Packed with crunchy nuts, melt-in-your-mouth dark chocolate, and a sprinkle of sea salt, these bars are the ultimate combination of sweet, salty, and satisfying. With less than 10 simple ingredients and a quick prep, you’ll want to keep a stash of these gluten-free beauties on hand for whenever snack cravings hit. Whether you’ve always adored KIND bars or are looking for a homemade treat that’s just as good (maybe even better), this recipe has got you covered.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in these bars was chosen for a reason—each one bringing a unique texture, flavor, or perfect pop of color to the mix. You’ll be amazed at how these simple staples come together to create irresistible Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars.
- Unsalted nuts of choice: Choose your favorites—cashews, peanuts, and almonds add the best crunch and a lovely mix of flavors.
- Puffed rice: This brings lightness and an airy, crisp texture that keeps the bars from feeling too dense.
- Brown rice syrup: Acts as the deliciously sticky binder that holds everything together, with a mellow sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash, but it makes the nutty aromas sing and adds a cozy warmth.
- Sea salt: A crucial ingredient! The salty finish highlights the sweetness and takes these bars to snack heaven.
- Dark chocolate chips: Rich, deep chocolate flavor meets crunchy, nutty goodness for an indulgent treat.
- Coconut oil: Melts with the chocolate, creating a silky, glossy finish that sets beautifully.
- Optional flaky salt: For sprinkling on top—a little extra crunch and a burst of salt in every bite!
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 selected nuts into a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Toast them for 5 to 8 minutes, just until they’re fragrant and lightly browned. This little step is magical—it unlocks so much flavor and takes your Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars from good to unforgettable.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper and set it aside (it makes removing the bars a breeze!). In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted nuts with the puffed rice. Use clean hands or a sturdy spatula to toss them all together, ensuring you get an even mix of crunch in every bite.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Scoop the brown rice syrup into a microwave-safe bowl and blast it for 30 seconds—just enough to loosen it up. Whisk in the vanilla extract and sea salt (don’t skip this, it infuses every bite!). Pour this sweet, salty goodness over your nut mixture and toss until every piece is sticky and glossy.
Step 4: Press and Bake
Transfer the sticky nut and rice mix into your prepared pan. Using a spatula (or clean hands lightly coated in oil), press the mixture down firmly into an even layer. Pop the pan into the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. When you see the edges turning just golden, they’re ready to cool and cut.
Step 5: Cut and Cool
Let the baked slab cool for about 30 minutes before unmolding onto a cutting board. Slice in half lengthwise, then slice each half into 5 or 6 bars. If you like neat, uniform bars, a sharp knife works wonders here. Allow the bars to finish cooling completely so they hold their shape.
Step 6: Melt Chocolate and Dip
Microwave the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring between each heat burst, until smooth and glossy. Dip the bottom of each bar into the melted chocolate, then carefully set it onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle more chocolate over the top for extra flair—don’t be shy!
Step 7: Add Sea Salt and Set
Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle flaky salt over each bar for a little sparkle and crunch. Slide the pan into the fridge to let the chocolate firm up (about 15–20 minutes). Your irresistible Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are ready to devour!
How to Serve Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars
Garnishes
Give your bars a pretty finish by sprinkling each one with a little extra flaky sea salt or a dusting of cocoa powder. Toasted coconut flakes or a drizzle of white chocolate also add a fun twist, both visually and flavor-wise.
Side Dishes
These bars shine as an on-the-go snack or after-workout treat, but you can turn them into a mini meal! Try them alongside Greek yogurt and fresh fruit for breakfast, or pair with a cozy cup of coffee or a creamy smoothie for a balanced afternoon pick-me-up.
Creative Ways to Present
Pile your bars high on a rustic wooden board for easy sharing at brunch, or wrap each bar in parchment paper and tie with twine for a sweet homemade gift. Stack them in glass jars or colorful lunch boxes for a portable, picture-perfect snack on the go!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are cool and set, keep them fresh by storing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Slip a square of parchment paper between each bar—this keeps them from sticking together, especially in warmer weather.
Freezing
For longer storage, pop your bars in the freezer! Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag with parchment between layers. They’ll keep for up to three months, and thaw in just a few minutes for snack emergencies (we all have them!).
Reheating
No reheating required, but if you love a slightly soft, gooey chocolate experience, zap a bar in the microwave for just 5–10 seconds. This will warm the chocolate and bring out the best in those roasted nuts without melting the whole thing.
FAQs
Can I use different nuts for these bars?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorites—hazelnuts, pecans, or walnuts give these bars their own unique twist. Just keep the total amount the same to ensure the bars hold together beautifully.
Is there a substitute for brown rice syrup?
If you can’t find brown rice syrup, honey is a good stand-in, though the texture will be slightly stickier and the flavor a bit sweeter. Keep in mind the bars may not hold together quite as firmly, but they’ll still taste delicious!
Are these bars vegan?
They can be! Just use dairy-free dark chocolate and swap brown rice syrup for maple syrup (though the consistency may vary slightly). Always double-check your chocolate chips for hidden dairy if vegan eating is a priority.
How do I stop the chocolate from pooling under the bars?
After dipping the bar bottoms in melted chocolate, hold each one above the bowl and let any excess chocolate drip off before placing onto the parchment. This helps avoid that thick “foot” of chocolate underneath and gives a neater finish.
Can I double the recipe?
You sure can! Simply double everything and use a 9×13-inch pan. Watch the baking time—it might need a few extra minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and you’ll have plenty of Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars for sharing (or hoarding, no judgment!).
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for that perfect combination of crunch, sweet, and salty, these homemade Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are about to become your go-to. Grab your favorite mix of nuts, a bag of dark chocolate chips, and bake up a batch—you’ll never want to be without them again!
PrintDark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars Recipe
These homemade Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are crunchy, perfectly salty, and delicious. With fewer than 10 ingredients, this super simple and easy-to-follow recipe is reminiscent of KIND bars, making it a delightful gluten-free treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Bars:
- 2 1/2 cups unsalted nuts of choice (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
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil
- Optional: flaky salt for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 325˚F / 160˚C.
- Toast nuts: Spread nuts on a baking sheet and bake until fragrant.
- Prepare pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
- Mix ingredients: Combine nuts, puffed rice, syrup, vanilla, and salt.
- Press mixture: Press mixture into pan and bake.
- Cut into bars: Cool, cut into bars, and set aside.
- Coat in chocolate: Melt chocolate and oil, dip bars, and drizzle with chocolate.
- Chill: Refrigerate until set and enjoy!
Notes
- If brown rice syrup is unavailable, honey can be used as a substitute.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the freezer for several months, separating layers with parchment paper.
- To prevent sticking, line the pan with parchment paper and lightly coat with cooking spray.
- Adding coconut oil to the chocolate helps thin it out and set faster.
- To avoid excess chocolate dripping, let any extra chocolate drip off before placing the bars down.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 248
- Sugar: 10.3 g
- Sodium: 68.2 mg
- Fat: 18.1 g
- Saturated Fat: 7.8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9.3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 17.3 g
- Fiber: 3.2 g
- Protein: 6.9 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
