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Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars Recipe

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4 from 196 reviews

  • Author: Diane
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Nut Bars are a delightful combination of crunchy nuts, puffed rice, and rich dark chocolate, balanced perfectly with a hint of sea salt. They're baked to bring out the roasted flavors of the nuts and finished with smooth melted chocolate for an indulgent yet wholesome snack. Ideal for satisfying sweet cravings with a wholesome crunch and a touch of saltiness.

Ingredients

Nut Mixture

  • 2 1/2 cups unsalted nuts of choice (3/4 cup cashews, 3/4 cup peanuts, and 1 cup almonds)
  • 1/2 cup puffed rice
  • 1/4 cup brown rice syrup
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Chocolate Topping

  • 1 cup dark chocolate chips
  • 2 teaspoons coconut oil
  • Optional: flaky salt for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Roast Nuts: Preheat your oven to 325˚F (160˚C). Spread the nuts evenly on a rimmed baking sheet and roast them for 5-8 minutes until they become fragrant and lightly browned. This step enhances their natural flavor.
  2. Prepare Baking Pan: Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set aside for later use.
  3. Mix Nuts and Puffed Rice: In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted nuts with puffed rice and toss thoroughly to evenly distribute the ingredients.
  4. Warm Syrup Mixture: Place the brown rice syrup in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in the microwave for 30 seconds to loosen it. Stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt until the mixture is well combined.
  5. Combine Syrup with Nut Mixture: Pour the syrup mixture over the nut and puffed rice blend and stir until all pieces are evenly coated with the sticky syrup.
  6. Press Mixture into Pan: Transfer the sticky nut mixture into the prepared 8x8 pan. Press it firmly into an even layer to compact the bars and help them hold together after baking.
  7. Bake Bars: Bake the mixture in the oven for 18-20 minutes. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool for about 30 minutes before transferring to a cutting board. Slice the large slab in half lengthwise, then cut each half into 5-6 thin bars. Let the bars cool completely for best texture.
  8. Melt Chocolate for Dipping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
  9. Dip and Decorate Bars: Dip the bottom of each nut bar into the melted chocolate, then place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle melted chocolate over the tops of the bars and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
  10. Set Chocolate: Refrigerate the bars until the chocolate coating is set and firm. Once set, the bars are ready to be enjoyed as a delicious and satisfying snack.

Notes

  • You can customize the nut combination to your preference or what you have on hand.
  • Brown rice syrup helps bind the bars without making them overly sweet, but you can substitute with honey or maple syrup if preferred.
  • Ensure the bars are completely cooled before cutting to avoid crumbling.
  • Flaky sea salt topping enhances the flavor contrast but can be omitted for a less salty taste.
  • Store bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week to maintain freshness and chocolate firmness.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://eatwithdiane.com/dark-chocolate-and-sea-salt-nut-bars-recipe/